How to Walk Around Oirase Gorge
Oirase Gorge is a popular sightseeing destination known for its spectacular scenery, created by its clear flowing stream and rich natural environment. This page introduces a walking map of Oirase Gorge, as well as nature guide tours and activities for visitors staying at Lake Towada.
Click here for directions and access information to Oirase Gorge
Oirase Gorge Walking Map
Please refer to the map of the popular walking route between Yakeyama and Nenokuchi in Oirase Gorge.
The map shows approximate distances and walking times between major spots such as Yakeyama, Kise, Ishigedo, Makadoiwa, Ashura-no-Nagare, Kumoi Falls, Shiraito Falls, Kudan Falls, Choshi Otaki Falls, and Nenokuchi.
It also shows the locations of restrooms, parking areas, rest facilities, and bus stops, helping you plan a walking route that best suits your schedule and interests before your visit.
Approximate walking times and distances are as follows.
[Walking]
Yakeyama – Nenokuchi (entire route): approximately 5 hours / approximately 14 km (8.7 miles)
Ishigedo – Nenokuchi (main scenic section): approximately 2.5 hours / approximately 9 km (5.6 miles)
The Appeal of Oirase Gorge
Together with Lake Towada, Oirase Gorge is designated as a Special Protection Zone within Towada-Hachimantai National Park, a nationally designated Natural Monument (Natural Conservation Area), and a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. Although a national road and walking trail run alongside the gorge, its rich natural forests with mature trees have been carefully preserved.
The appeal of Oirase Gorge lies not only in its beautiful natural scenery, but also in the opportunity to connect with nature and experience a sense of relaxation by spending time in an extraordinary natural environment.
※ For more information about the attractions of Oirase Gorge and ways to enjoy your visit, please see the website below.
Oirase Gorge Field Museum Official Website (Japanese website)
Nature Volunteer Guide for Guests Staying at Lake Towada
Towada Lake Nature Guide Club
Local guides offer a one-hour early-morning tour for visitors staying at Lake Towada, introducing the changing natural scenery along the lakeshore as well as attractions such as the Statue of Maidens and Towada Shrine. Through these tours, the guides hope to share the beauty of nature with visitors, reflect on the cultural heritage left by earlier generations, and deepen appreciation for the national park and awareness of the importance of protecting it.
Nature Volunteer Guide Details
486 Towada, Okuse, Towada City, Aomori 018-5501 (c/o Yoshizaki)
Tel: 090-5181-7658 Fax: 0176-75-1860
- Tour area / Around Yasumiya on the shore of Lake Towada (approximately 1 hour)
Yasumiya Lakeside – Statue of Maidens – Towada Shrine – Path of Good Fortune - Tour period / Late April to early November (closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
- Fee / ¥500
- Reservations / No advance reservation required
Please meet at the Towada Lake Tourist Exchange Center “Puratto” at 5:55 a.m. The tour departs at 6:00 a.m.
※ On Mondays only, the meeting point is in front of Hotel Towadaso.
※ In addition to the early-morning Yasumiya tour, guides may also be arranged for tours in the Lake Towada and Oirase Gorge areas for a fee.
Enjoy Oirase Gorge Even More with a Guide
Why not experience this natural open-air museum more deeply with a guide? For information about guided tours, activities, and other experiences, please see the brochure below.
※ Click the image below to open and enlarge the brochure PDF. The brochure is available in Japanese only.
