HIROSHIMA Inland Hiroshima Magnificent gorges to cruise

Traveling a little further inland to the northeast of Hiroshima gives you access to rolling hills and stunning unspoiled natural beauty. The area boasts scenic destinations like Taishaku Gorge and Sandankyo Gorge.

The quickest and easiest way to get the area is by car from Hiroshima City .

It takes around two hours by car from Hiroshima City. For Taishaku Gorge take a train or bus from Hiroshima to Tojo Station on the JR Geibi Line in roughly two hours. From Tojo Station, take a Shiju Line bus to Taishaku Gorge . For Sandankyo Gorge take a bus from Hiroshima Bus Center.

Stunningly beautiful, Taishaku Gorge and Sandankyo Gorge are popular with domestic sightseers but are somewhat hidden gems amongst overseas visitors.

If you enjoy hiking, be sure to visit Sandankyo Gorge and Taishaku Gorge . Sandankyo Gorge offers boat rides and canoe hire, and Taishaku-kyo has the fantastic natural limestone bridge, Onbashi Bridge . The area is exceptionally beautiful in autumn when it draws many local visitors with their cameras.

Another recommended activity is to rent a bicycle and cycle the 20-kilometer long Taishaku Valley, stopping by Taishakuten Eimyoji Temple along the way. The main temple hall is set against the limestone cliffs of Mt. Sekiun, a dramatic backdrop to this Buddhist temple, originally established in the 8th century. The Azuchi-Momoyama period (1573-1603) carvings on the main hall are particularly beautiful.

The Taishaku river runs into Shinryu Lake, where you can cruise the area by boat; it takes around 40 minutes and costs 1,500 yen for adults or 750 yen for children. The clear lake waters reflect the three beautiful red bridges that cross it. During fall when the leaves are at their most vivid, the cruise can get rather busy.

There is no shortage of great food and drink in the area. Seishu is a type of refined sake, and the Shinrai brewery has been perfecting their craft since 1716. Try the steamed red bean buns sold around the area that have a subtle alcohol aroma to them.