Tenryukyo Valley

Traditional Boating at the Foot of the Southern Alps

The Tenryukyo Valley, nestled between the Southern and Central Alps of Nagano, is a picturesque destination for traditional boating. With the majestic Tenryu River flowing through it, the valley offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re cruising through the Garyu Gorge or exploring the Tenryu Gorge, this area promises a memorable adventure.

Don’t Miss

As you embark on your boating journey, there are a few highlights you shouldn’t miss. One of them is the stunning display of autumn colors that blankets the gorge. The vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow create a breathtaking backdrop as you float along the river. Another must-see attraction is the hiking trail that runs alongside the canyon near Tenryukyo Station. It offers an up-close and personal experience with the natural wonders of the area.

How to Get There

Reaching the Tenryukyo Valley is convenient, as it can be accessed by both train and boat. If you’re traveling from Tokyo, you can take the Shinkansen to Toyohashi, which is approximately a two-and-a-half-hour journey. Alternatively, you can travel from Shin-Osaka Station to Toyohashi, which takes about two hours. From Toyohashi, you’ll need to transfer to the local Iida Line. To visit the Garyu Gorge, you’ll need to get off at Ina-Yawata Station, which is approximately a four-hour trip. From there, it’s just a short 25-minute walk to Benten Port, where you can catch a boat. If you’re planning to explore the Tenryu Gorge, you’ll need to disembark at Tenryukyo Station, which is about a three-hour journey from Toyohashi. The Tenryukyo Onsen Port is conveniently located near the station.

Riding Heaven’s Dragon

The Tenryu River, with its headwaters in Nagano’s Lake Suwa, winds its way through the Ina Valley at the foot of the Southern Alps before flowing into the Pacific Ocean. In the Tenryukyo Valley, the river has carved out the narrow and steep Garyu and Tenryu Gorges. These dramatic landscapes, characterized by rugged cliffs, jagged rock formations, and lush woodlands, have given rise to a rich boating tradition along the river. The boating tours operate year-round, allowing visitors to experience the unique beauty of each season. In spring, the mountains come alive with the vibrant colors of cherry blossoms. Summer brings relief from the heat as you glide through the cool waters, surrounded by lush flora. Autumn treats you to a mesmerizing display of scarlet and gold foliage against the emerald river. Even in winter, you can brave the cold and enjoy a boat tour, as the bottom portion of the boat is heated with a quilt-covered device called a kotatsu.

Shooting down the Garyu

For an exhilarating experience, embark on a boat ride through the northern Garyu Gorge. The Tenryu Funa-kudari departs from Benten Port and takes you on a thrilling 35-minute journey downstream. As you navigate through the rapids, the skilled guides expertly maneuver the boat between boulders and away from the towering cliffs. This section of the river offers a thrilling ride, especially during the warmer seasons when getting splashed by the cool water is refreshing. The ride concludes at Tokimata Station, where you have a choice to make. You can either head a few stops down to Tenryukyo Station for a relaxing dip in the hot spring bath or continue your boating adventure along the next stretch of the river.

Floating through the Tenryu

If you’re looking for a more leisurely boat tour, the Tenryu Gorge trip is perfect for you. Lasting approximately 50 minutes, the Tenryu Rhine Kudari begins at Tenryukyo Port near the station. Before embarking on the boat tour, take a leisurely hike along the easy one-hour trail that starts near the station and offers stunning views of the gorge. As you gently glide along the river, the knowledgeable guides provide commentary, pointing out the various boulders and rock formations that have earned their own names. At one point during the tour, the boat stops to demonstrate traditional net fishing techniques, allowing you to witness the local culture firsthand. The tour concludes near Karakasa Station, providing you with a convenient starting point for further exploration. If you’re in need of relaxation or warmth after the boat ride, consider visiting the Tenryukyo Onsen area, located near the station.

In conclusion, the Tenryukyo Valley offers an exceptional boating experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of the Southern Alps. Whether you choose to brave the rapids of the Garyu Gorge or leisurely float through the Tenryu Gorge, you’re sure to be captivated by the rugged cliffs, pristine river, and lush woodlands that surround you. With convenient access by train and boat, this hidden gem in Nagano is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. So pack your bags, embark on a journey to the Tenryukyo Valley, and prepare to be enchanted by the traditional boating experience at the foot of the Southern Alps.

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