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National Park & Nature

Rairaikyo Gorge

📍 Yumoto, Akiu-cho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
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★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
Japan, Sendai
Category
National Park & Nature
Duration
1-2 hours
Address
Yumoto, Akiu-cho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
Coordinates
38.2245, 140.7287

Introduction

Rairaikyo Gorge in Akiu-cho, Taihaku-ku, Sendai, is a gorge of giant rocks cut by the Natori River, running about 2 km with 650 m of developed trail along the stream. It was named in 1931 by Toyotaka Komiya, a pupil of Natsume Soseki and professor emeritus of Tohoku University, using the character 'rai' for piled stones. Beside the Akiu hot springs, the heart-shaped hollow under Nozokibashi Bridge is known as a lovers' spot, and the gorge is lit up in the autumn-leaf season.

✨ Highlights

1
Heart-shaped hollow
A natural heart-shaped hole in the rock by Nozokibashi Bridge, a lovers' landmark.
2
Heavenly Axe Rock
A boulder split cleanly in two, a signature sight of the trail.
3
Masked Rock
A crag that looks like a face, sparking the imagination.
4
650 m of trail
One way along the stream; allow 40-50 minutes there and back.
5
Autumn illumination
Night lighting in maple season reveals a different gorge.
6
Akiu onsen pairing
Share the district with Akiu Onsen and Akiu Great Falls.

🛈 Practical Info

→Facilities：Akiu-Sato Center has parking, toilets and coin lockers, plus multilingual guidebooks
→Note：The trail is one-way, not a loop; you retrace your steps
→Opening Hours：Open 24 hours; unlit at night

Ticket Information

Ticket Information
Free AdmissionFree

Transportation

Bus

Miyagi Kotsu bus for Akiu Onsen from Sendai Station West Exit (about 50 min) to Nozokibashi or Akiu-Sato Center, then 1-3 min on foot

💡 Tips

• Free entry, open 24 hours but unlit at night.
• The trail runs about 650 m one way; 40-50 minutes there and back.
• Rocks are slippery; wear grippy shoes and use the handrails.
• Light-up events run in the maple season and on special occasions.
• Heavy snow can close the surrounding roads.
• Enquiries: Akiu Onsen Tourist Association, 022-398-2323.

FAQ

What are the opening hours of Rairaikyo Gorge?

Open 24 hours; unlit at night

How much is the admission for Rairaikyo Gorge?

Free Admission: Free

Any practical tips for visiting Rairaikyo Gorge?

Free entry, open 24 hours but unlit at night. The trail runs about 650 m one way; 40-50 minutes there and back.

How long should I spend at Rairaikyo Gorge?

A typical visit takes 1-2 hours.

How do I get to Rairaikyo Gorge?

Bus: Miyagi Kotsu bus for Akiu Onsen from Sendai Station West Exit (about 50 min) to Nozokibashi or Akiu-Sato Center, then 1-3 min on foot