Tenryu Gorge | A Scenic Canyon in Iida, Nagano

🏞 Stunning Viewpoints • A majestic canyon stretching 2km along the Tenryu River, with cliffs reaching up to 57m high. The white granite is adorned with seasonal colors from pine, cherry, and maple trees. • Named "Tenryu no Gotoshi" by Edo-period Confucian scholar Sakatani Roro and designated as a scenic spot. In the Meiji era, calligraphy master Kusakabe Meikaku named ten representative rock formations "Tenryu Gorge Ten Wonders." 🚶♀️ Charming Walking Trails & River Cruises • The walking trail is a 2km loop course (about 1 hour on foot), allowing visitors to easily enjoy famous spots like Ryukakubo Peak, Tsutsuji Bridge, and observation decks. • **River Cruise (Tenryu Line Cruise)** lasts about 40–50 minutes, featuring boatman navigation and net-throwing performances for an immersive experience of the gorge from the water. 🌉 Aerial Stroll Spot "Sora Sanpo Tenryu Gorge" • Opened in 2019, the Tenryu Gorge Bridge's underpass walkway offers a bird's-eye view of the canyon from 80m above ground. Enjoy photogenic views of the Iida Line trains and river cruise boats below. 🍂 Seasonal Highlights • Spring: Cherry blossoms, Mitsuba azaleas, and double-flowered cherries brighten the walking trails. • Summer: Fresh greenery, babbling streams, and refreshing river breezes. • Autumn: The gorge transforms into a "brocade painting" during the fall foliage season. • Winter: Snow-covered rock faces resemble ink paintings, creating a magical atmosphere. 🎯 Travel Tips • Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and prepare for seasonal weather conditions. • Access: • By car: About 15 minutes from Iida IC • By train: 3 minutes on foot from JR Iida Line Tenryu Gorge Station • Parking: Multiple free parking lots available (Central, North, Ota Shita Plaza, PA, etc.) • Sora Sanpo walkway hours: April–September 6:30–18:00, October–March 7:30–16:30 ✅ Recommended for: • Those seeking a relaxing getaway with the beauty of a natural canyon and easy hiking 💚 • Adventurers looking for memorable experiences like river cruises and aerial strolls 🚣♀️ • Photography enthusiasts eager to capture seasonal landscapes, trains, and boats in one spot! 📅 Sample 1-Day Itinerary 1. Morning: Arrive at Tenryu Gorge Station, explore Ryukakubo Peak & Tsutsuji Bridge on the walking trail. 2. Take an aerial stroll on Sora Sanpo Tenryu Gorge and check out the Iida Line trains. 3. Experience the grandeur of the gorge from the water on a river cruise. 4. Relax and unwind at Tenryu Gorge Hot Springs to end the day. Tenryu Gorge is a natural treasure of Southern Shinshu, offering opportunities to "walk," "view," and "feel." Surrounded by rivers, skies, and mountains, it promises a fulfilling day. Be sure to visit and experience its charm! 🌿