Obako Gorge
大函
A gorge on the eastern end of Sounkyo where columnar cliffs about 200 meters high close in on the Ishikari River. It offers the most spectacular autumn foliage in the Sounkyo area.
Obako lies about 6 kilometers east of Sounkyo Onsen. On both sides of the Ishikari River, columnar jointed cliffs about 200 meters high rise like a screen, and where the valley is narrowest it is only a few dozen meters wide. In autumn, the red foliage on the cliff tops contrasts with the dark grey rock and emerald river. The car park, rest house and viewing trail are right beside National Route 39, and entry is free. The nearby 'Small Obako' trail has been closed for a long time due to the risk of falling rocks. It is about 10 minutes by car from Sounkyo Onsen and can be combined with Ginga and Ryusei Falls. Be careful of icy roads in winter.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Ginga & Ryusei Falls
- Lake Taisetsu
- Ginsendai
- Momijidani Trail, Sounkyo
- Sounkyo Onsen & Ice Fall Festival
- Daisetsuzan Sounkyo Kurodake Ropeway
- Daisetsu Kogen Onsen & Marsh Trail
- Mikuni Pass & Matsumi Bridge