Finding Adventure in Takachiho’s Hidden Gems

Takachiho Packrafting is an adventurous outdoor activity that combines hiking and rafting. This exclusive private tour allows you to explore a mysterious waterfall hidden in the heart of Takachiho; accessible only through packrafting. Guests on this tour are invited to embark on an adventure while enjoying the gorge’s historical insights and scenic views with a local guide.

Uncover a hidden gem and breathtaking landscapes with this exclusive Takachiho Packrafting experience!

View of Obashi Gorge from Kunimi Bridge.

After walking along the riverside forest road for about 15 minutes, you will arrive at Hattai Ryugu Shrine (八體龍宮神社).
Before heading to the waterside, take a moment to greet the deity of water.

Put on your water boots, life jacket, and helmet.
With the rafting gear and a sports drink on your back, you’re ready to embark on an adventure!

Cross the bridge and descend the stairs leading into the Obashi Gorge.

Walking through untouched nature, filled with excitement for the unknown adventure ahead!

After a 15 minutes walk over rugged, rocky terrain along the river, you’ll arrive at the starting point for rafting. The guide will assist you in inflating the boat, preparing your gear, and demonstrating proper paddling techniques.

Hop aboard and kick off on an epic adventure to uncover the hidden waterfall of “Deep Takachiho Gorge!”

Here’s the challenge! Can you reach the other side without getting swept back by the current?

“We made it!” Once you’re past the current, a breathtaking view awaits!
Above the ancient natural rock formations, the blue sky and Kunimi Bridge come into sight.

After the bridge comes into view continue navigating through the narrower gaps between the rocks heading deeper into the gorge.

The thrill of going between towering, sheer cliffs on either side feels like stepping into the role of an explorer on a quest through uncharted terrain.

This beautiful rock formation was shaped thousands of years ago by a massive eruption from Mount Aso. Pyroclastic flows from the eruption spread in a band along the Gokase River, cooling rapidly and creating the distinctive columnar jointing we see today.

The secret waterfall is coming into view! Almost there!

Finally, we’ve discovered the secret waterfall!
Reaching this hidden sanctuary on our own is an experience like no other.

As you gaze up from the water at the nameless hidden waterfall and the towering cliffs surrounding it, the sheer beauty leaves you speechless.
​​​​​​Lying back in the boat, with the soothing sound of the waterfall filling your ears, you feel a comforting embrace from the grandeur of nature, as if it’s wrapping you in its serene power.

After returning to the shrine, return all the gear to the guide and wrap up the adventure.

If you’re looking to dive deeper and experience the thrill of exploring Takachiho exclusively, the Takachiho Packrafting Tour is your ultimate choice!


Takachiho Packrafting Tour
Season: April to November
Time: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (3 hours)
Capacity: 2 to 8 people
Price: 16,500yen(Incl. TAX) per person.
Groups with Kyushu residents receive a 20% discount.

For more details and to apply, please visit the following link:
https://takachihoat.com/packraftschedule-en

They also offer other exciting adventure activities:
- E-bike tours exploring the agricultural heritage of Takachiho’s terraced rice fields
- Mythological trekking tours guided by a Shinto priest through Takachiho’s mountains
English-speaking guides are available for an additional fee.

For more details, please check out the Takachiho Adventure Tourism Association’s website:
https://takachihoat.com/en

The Zig Zag Village Walk is a locally-rooted tour where you explore the town with a guide, gaining insights into the daily life of Takachiho’s residents while uncovering the area’s rich history and culture.
Discover hidden gems not easily found by simply driving to famous tourist spots, and learn about the local wisdom and traditions that define the area.

In the Zig Zag Village Walk, local guides are called “cast members.”

These cast members accompany guests on their journey through the area, becoming characters in the guest’s own Takachiho adventure story as they travel together. They assist in various ways to help guests develop a deeper understanding of Takachiho, fostering interest and connection to the region.

Traveling with a cast member brings the scenery to life in vibrant colors, making the experience of Takachiho feel infinitely richer and more expansive.

Stroll in a zigzag pattern around the terraced fields.
You might encounter places and locals that you can only meet on this exclusive tour.

At first glance, it might seem like just an ordinary waterway...
but could it actually hold the key to a significant history that has shaped the lives of the local people?

A view of the beautiful terraced rice fields from the observatory.
In summer, they turn a vibrant green. In autumn, they transform into a golden sea as the rice ripens.

Why is Takachiho known as the ‘Birthplace of Japanese Myth’?
Why have locals persevered in growing rice despite the challenging environment?
The more you uncover the secrets hidden in Takachiho’s landscape, the more your curiosity will deepen and grow.

Another standout feature of the Zig Zag Village Walk is its commitment to sustainable tour design.

The tour is developed with active participation from locals, incorporating measures to avoid waste and utilizing resources from Takachiho as much as possible. This approach ensures a travel experience that respects and preserves the local environment.

In 2015, five towns and villages, including Takachiho Town, were designated the GIAHS (Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems) for its exceptional regional system that makes the most of its land and environment, even under challenging conditions. The Zig Zag Village Walk prides itself on preserving the traditional practices and region of Takachiho to ensure they are passed down to future generations.

On the exploration tour of the Ama-no-Iwato area, savor a delicious rice ball set made with Takachiho’s terraced rice.
Wrapped in bamboo leaves, this set is both tasty and eco-friendly.

Enjoy special rice balls with stunning views of terraced fields and mountains!

Discover the hidden secrets of Takachiho’s breathtaking landscapes with an off-the-beaten-path adventure, making your experience truly unforgettable!


Zig Zag Village Walk
Tours:
1. Amano-iwato Area (5h)
2. Historical Town Area (5h-6h)
- Guided by a local expert (Japanese or English)
- Light refreshments featuring Takachiho local products.
　For the Amano-iwato 5h tour, a special rice ball made from terraced rice is provided.
- Accompanied by a local history specialist.
　Available for the Historical Town Area only. Other areas can be arranged upon request.

Details:
- Price Range: 16,500 yen to 22,000 yen per person
- Group Size: Minimum 2, Maximum 14. For the Amano-iwato 5-hour tour, the maximum is 8.
- Available: September to May (excluding December 28 to January 3)

Booking Information:
- As of 2024, bookings can only be made through travel agencies (website bookings are not available).
- For individual tour requests, please contact: info@otonau.com