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Located in the center of Shodoshima, Kagawa Prefecture, Kankakei Gorge is considered one of Japan’s Three Most Beautiful Gorges. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, its striking rock formations, sheer cliffs, and seasonal colors captivate visitors year-round.
In this guide, we’ll introduce the highlights of Kankakei, including panoramic views from the ropeway and mountaintop, seasonal attractions, and tips worth knowing before your visit.
Kankakei Gorge, located in Shodoshima Town, Kagawa Prefecture, is one of Japan’s Three Most Beautiful Gorges and was designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty in 1927. Its rugged rock faces, formed about 13 million years ago by volcanic activity, change dramatically with each season. The autumn foliage is especially famous, attracting visitors from all over Japan and abroad.
| Period | Hours |
|---|---|
| Mar 21–Oct 20 | 8:30 am–5:00 pm |
| Oct 21–Nov 30 | 8:00 am–5:00 pm |
| Dec 1–Dec 20 | 8:30 am–5:00 pm |
| Dec 21–Mar 20 | 8:30 am–4:30 pm |
The ropeway runs every 12 minutes, or every 6 minutes during peak seasons. Open year-round, but service may be suspended in severe weather.
| Period | Adult (Round Trip) | Adult (One Way) | Child (Round Trip) | Child (One Way) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 21–Oct 31 Dec 1–Dec 10 | 2,340 yen | 1,300 yen | 1,170 yen | 650 yen |
| Nov 1–Nov 30 | 2,700 yen | 1,500 yen | 1,350 yen | 750 yen |
| Dec 11–Mar 20 | 2,160 yen | 1,200 yen | 1,080 yen | 600 yen |
The Kankakei Ropeway connects Kōun-tei Station at the foot of the mountain to the summit station in about 5 minutes. It’s one of the few ropeways in Japan offering views of both gorge and sea at the same time, making it a favorite among tourists and locals alike.
From the windows, you can see the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, sheer rock faces, and unique rock formations stretching through the gorge. At certain points, the view opens wide, framing lush forests below and the distant sea together—perfect for photos.
In spring, fresh green leaves blanket the gorge; in summer, deep green forests; in autumn, vibrant foliage; and in winter, snowy landscapes. The ropeway runs every 12 minutes, or every 6 minutes during busy seasons, ensuring smooth boarding even during peak times.
At the summit of Kankakei, there are three observation decks offering sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea and the whole of Shodoshima. Each has its own unique charm and experience, changing with the seasons and time of day. Let’s explore them in order: First Observation Deck, Second Observation Deck, and Takatori Observation Deck.
The First Observation Deck offers the widest view at the summit. Here you can see the dramatic gorge below and the islands of the Seto Inland Sea beyond. On clear days, you can see as far as the mountain ranges of Honshu and Shikoku, with beautiful light transitions in the morning and evening.
The Second Observation Deck offers elevated views over the Seto Inland Sea and Kankakei Gorge. On clear days, the vivid blue of the sea contrasts beautifully with the lush green mountains.
From here, the sight of sheer rock peaks is particularly striking. When shrouded in mist, the scene takes on a mystical quality, as if stepping back into ancient times or witnessing the dawn of the Earth.
The Second Observation Deck also offers the “kawara nage” experience—throwing small clay roof tiles toward a target ring. Successfully passing a tile through the ring is said to bring safe travels and good fortune, making it a popular activity among visitors.
Takatori Observation Deck is a historic site where Emperor Ōjin is said to have gone hawk hunting. From its high vantage point, you can see the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding mountains of Kankakei, with changing views depending on the weather and time of day.
A short walk along the trail from the deck brings you to the contemporary art installation “Sky Sphere.”
Looking through the sphere reveals a framed, dreamlike view of the landscape. This fusion of nature and art is a favorite photo spot.
In the tranquil atmosphere, you can feel the history while enjoying the unique harmony of scenery and art.
Kankakei offers different charms throughout the year. In spring, wild cherry blossoms and fresh young leaves cover the gorge in soft greens. By early summer, the greenery deepens, and the crisp air enhances the refreshing scenery.
Autumn is the most spectacular season, when the gorge is ablaze with vivid foliage, attracting crowds as one of Japan’s top autumn leaf spots. In winter, snow-covered rock formations and a clear sky create a serene, peaceful scene.
With every seasonal change, the scenery transforms, offering a unique charm each time. Your next visit will surely greet you with a different landscape—this fleeting beauty is one of Kankakei’s greatest attractions.
The summit area of Kankakei offers a variety of gourmet options using local ingredients and exclusive souvenirs. One standout is the “Olive Beef Croquette Burger,” a popular item featuring premium Kagawa olive-fed beef.
Other recommendations include the locally unique “Momiji Cider” and sweets made with olive oil. These products showcase Shodoshima’s fresh ingredients and traditional craftsmanship—perfect as travel mementos.
Souvenir shops here stock a wide selection, including olive products, local sake, and traditional Shodoshima somen noodles. With spacious interiors and abundant variety, it’s an ideal place to shop for island souvenirs after immersing yourself in Kankakei’s natural beauty.
Kankakei offers two hiking trails from Kōun Station at the foot of the ropeway to the summit: the “Omote 12 Views Trail” and the “Ura 8 Views Trail.”
The Omote 12 Views route is well-maintained, making it easy to enjoy the distinctive rocks and gorge scenery. The Ura 8 Views route is closer to untouched nature, offering diverse gorge landscapes.
Both trails take about 60–90 minutes to reach the summit, allowing you to choose based on fitness and schedule. They’re popular among hikers who prefer walking over taking the ropeway and those who want to immerse themselves in nature.
| Trail | Time Required | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Omote 12 Views Trail | 1 hour | 2km |
| Ura 8 Views Trail | 1 hour 30 minutes | 2.3km |
Hiking Trail Information | Official Kankakei Website
You can reach Kankakei either by driving to the summit or to Kōun-tei Station at the base of the ropeway, or by taking a bus to the ropeway base station.
For detailed access information, see below.
Read more about How to Get to Kankakei
Kankakei was formed about 13 million years ago through volcanic activity, creating a unique gorge landscape primarily composed of breccia. As lava cooled and solidified, wind and water erosion over millions of years shaped the current cliffs and rock formations.
This breathtaking scenery, shaped by nature over vast time, is recognized as one of Japan’s Three Most Beautiful Gorges. Each season offers different expressions, leaving lasting impressions on visitors.
Designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty in 1927, Kankakei has been preserved through ongoing local conservation efforts. Its harmony of history and nature continues to be loved by many.
At the summit of Kankakei stands a signboard explaining the origin of its name, titled Kankake-yama Meishō-ben.
The mountain where Kankakei lies was long known as “Kankake-yama.”
Kenji Nakagiri (1842–1899), a Confucian scholar of the Meiji period, deeply loved this mountain and wrote an essay titled Kankake-yama Meishō-ben in 1897.
At the time, both locals and visitors used various names—such as “Kanka-kei,” “Kankakei,” and “Kagi-kakei”—causing confusion. He clarified that the traditional name was Kankake-yama.
This essay was engraved on a stone monument in 1915 and erected near Kōun-tei. It was relocated to its current position in 1991.
Kankakei is a natural wonder shaped by volcanic activity 13 million years ago and countless years of erosion. Its unique rock formations, gorge, and colorful seasonal landscapes continue to captivate visitors.
The dramatic rows of rock formations and the expansive Seto Inland Sea beyond offer awe-inspiring views. Panoramas from the ropeway and summit observation decks impress visitors, while the changing seasonal beauty adds to its charm.
At the summit, you can enjoy meals and snacks made with fresh local ingredients. The signature Olive Beef Croquette Burger and limited Momiji Cider are especially popular. Souvenir options include olive products, local sake, and traditional Shodoshima somen noodles.
With the ropeway, hiking trails, and interactive experiences like kawara tile throwing, Kankakei offers many ways to enjoy its wonders. Experience this miraculous landscape where nature and history intertwine.
For a deeper sense of Kankakei’s atmosphere, check out this article:
For information on getting to Kankakei by bus, car, or ropeway:
