What is Oboke-Koboke and how did it get its name?
Oboke-Koboke is a gorge with its banks looming over the middle reaches of the Yoshino River in the western part of Tokushima Prefecture, near the center of Shikoku. Koboke is on the north side and Oboke is on the south side.
It is said that the word "Boke" in the name "Oboke-Koboke" comes from the place where the cliffs are very steep and narrow. In fact, the cliffs on both sides of the river are so steep that it is obvious that it is dangerous to walk on them.
Oboke-Koboke was created by the Yoshino River's erosion of the Shikoku Mountains over hundreds of millions of years and is about 8 km long in total.
How to get to Oboke-Koboke
Oboke and Koboke are both served by JR stations, but since they are located in central Shikoku, they are 1.5-2 hours from Tokushima, Takamatsu, and Kochi airports respectively, and about 1 hour train ride from Tokushima, Takamatsu, and Kochi stations. Iya-kei Gorge is also about 2 km away, so a car or cab can be used to visit the area together.
Recommended Sightseeing in Oboke
Oboke Gorge Sightseeing Boat
From "Obokekyo Manaka", a commercial sightseeing facility located in the center of the Oboke Gorge, go down to the river and you will find a sightseeing boat departure and arrival point. You can take a 30-minute cruise and enjoy the spectacular view of the Oboke Gorge.
The Yoshino River runs from Kochi to Tokushima. Although it is not as clear as the Shimanto River or the Niyodo River, the Yoshino River is also a clear stream, with its clear and clear surface contrasting vividly with the green of the trees and the rocks on both banks.
Around the Oboke Gorge, there is a conglomerate schist that was deposited in the Paleozoic Era and is designated as a natural monument.
Four Seasons in Oboke Gorge
Oboke Koboke is decorated with cherry blossoms in spring, and from mid-March to May, carp streamers sent from all over Japan are hung across the river, creating a delightful scene. Early summer and summer are the best times to enjoy the beautiful surface of the Yoshino River, and the autumn foliage season is also a good time to visit, as the river is lined with trees on both banks.
Recommended Sightseeing in Koboke
Koboke Gorge is a little more secluded than Oboke Gorge. Rafting is possible on the rapids, but there are no sightseeing boats like in Oboke, so you generally have to look down the gorge to see the sights. There is also a suspension bridge called Kunimasa Bridge on the north side of the gorge, so it is a good idea to extend your legs to cross it.
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