Kikuchi Gorge
菊池渓谷
A clear-stream gorge at the north foot of Aso's outer ring of mountains, where waterfalls and deep pools link through the forest. It is a favorite summer escape and autumn-leaves spot in Kumamoto.
Kikuchi Gorge lies in eastern Kikuchi city, at the foot of the northern outer ring mountains of Aso. It is part of Aso-Kuju National Park. Both sides of the gorge are covered in virgin broadleaf forest, and clear streams form waterfalls among the rocks, including Kakemaku-no-taki, Shijūsanman-taki and Tengu-no-taki. In summer, the forest is about 10°C cooler than the city, and the gorge has been selected both for Japan's 100 Famous Waters and for Japan's 100 Forest-Bathing Forests. A loop trail takes about an hour to walk, and it is very crowded during the autumn foliage season. An environmental protection contribution of about 300 yen is charged, and parts of the gorge close in winter (roughly December through March). There is no direct public transport. By car from Kumamoto city it takes about an hour, and the Milk Road connects to Daikanbo.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:30–17:00 (closed in winter; check official website)
Nearby sights
- Uchinomaki Onsen
- Oshitoishi Hill
- Daikanbo
- Aso Farm Land
- Komezuka
- Aso Volcano Museum
- Nabegataki Falls
- Kusasenri