Nakayama Shichiri (Gifu Prefecture) Complete Guide｜Enjoy Approximately 28km of Gorge Beauty and Scenic Views Throughout the Four Seasons
Nakayama Shichiri (なかやましちり), which stretches along the Hida River flowing through Gero City in Gifu Prefecture, is a magnificent gorge scenic area spanning approximately 28 kilometers in total length. Formed by the erosion of the Hida River and steep mountains, it features a series of unusual rock formations, and is known as a representative tourist spot of Hida Kiso River National Government Park where visitors can enjoy landscapes of cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snow scenes in winter.
Overview and Geographical Characteristics of Nakayama Shichiri
Nakayama Shichiri is a gorge in the middle reaches of the Hida River that extends from the Taichun Bridge (taichun-kyo) in Mihara, Gero City, Gifu Prefecture to the Sakai Bridge in Kanayama, Kanayama Town, the same city. This section spans approximately 28 kilometers, which corresponds to “shichiri” (approximately 27.5 km), and the name was given accordingly.
Formation of the Topography
The distinctive topography of Nakayama Shichiri was formed as the Hida River eroded steep mountainous terrain over many years. Located in the southern part of the Hida region, near the border between Hida and Mino provinces, this gorge’s unique landscape was created when bedrock affected by volcanic activity and crustal movements was carved away by the erosive action of the river.
Numerous unusual rock formations are scattered along the gorge, each with its own name. These rocks fascinate many tourists as examples of natural sculptural beauty.
Designated Area of Hida Kiso River National Government Park
Nakayama Shichiri is a scenic area designated as part of the Hida Kiso River National Government Park. This national government park was established to protect the outstanding natural landscapes of the Hida and Kiso river basins, with Nakayama Shichiri holding an important position as a particularly beautiful gorge section.
Origin of the Name Nakayama Shichiri and Its History
The name Nakayama Shichiri has historical background. The origin of this name is related to the governance of the Hida region during the Sengoku and early Edo periods.
Kanamori Nagachika and the Development of the Hida Highway
In 1586 (Tensho 14), Kanamori Nagachika, who came to govern Hida Province, developed the Hida Highway as an important transportation route connecting Hida and Mino. The section of this highway along the Hida River was approximately seven ri (about 28 km) in length, and it is said that this is how the name “Nakayama Shichiri” (Middle Mountain Seven Ri) came about.
With the development of this highway, exchanges between the Hida and Mino regions became more active, and the transport of goods and movement of people flourished. The current National Route 41 and JR Takayama Main Line basically follow the route of this old highway.
Connection with Literary Works
The name Nakayama Shichiri is also known as the pen name of mystery writer Nanasato Nakayama, who hails from Gifu Prefecture. It is said that the writer adopted his pen name from this scenic area called “Nakayama Shichiri” in Gifu Prefecture, and this is told as an episode demonstrating his affection for his hometown of Gifu.
Also, many literary figures have visited this place since ancient times and left records of its beautiful scenery in poetry and travel writings. Haiku poets and tanka poets from the Edo period also left works that were impressed by the landscape of this gorge, making it a place of high literary value.
Main Points of Interest in Nakayama Shichiri
Nakayama Shichiri has numerous unusual rock formations and scenic points created by nature. Here, we introduce the most famous attractions in detail.
Byobu Rock (びょうぶいわ)
Byobu Rock is one of the representative unusual rock formations of Nakayama Shichiri. As its name suggests, it is a massive rock wall shaped like an erected folding screen, standing magnificently along the Hida River. It rises several tens of meters high and is characterized by steeply cut rocky surfaces.
Byobu Rock becomes a spectacular viewing spot particularly in autumn when the surrounding trees change color, creating a beautiful contrast with the rock surface. It can also be seen from the windows of the JR Takayama Main Line, making it a point enjoyable for train tourism as well.
Arhat Rock (らかんいわ)
Arhat Rock is a group of rock formations likened to arhats (enlightened sages in Buddhism). The group earned its name because the way multiple rocks line up resembles monks in training standing in a row.
Despite being a natural formation, these rocks have shapes as if they were sculpted by human hands and display various expressions depending on the viewing angle. Long treated as an object of faith, it is cherished by local people.
Koshi Pond (こうしがいけ)
Koshi Pond is a place where particularly many legends remain within Nakayama Shichiri. A folk tale about a filial son has been passed down regarding this pond, and it is the origin of the place name.
The area surrounding the pond is wrapped in a quiet atmosphere, offering a serene landscape away from the bustle of the gorge. The reflection of the surrounding mountains and trees in the water surface is also beautiful, making it a popular spot for photography.
Fang Rock (きばいわ)
Fang Rock is an unusual rock formation with a sharp, pointed shape that resembles an animal’s fang. This rock, formed by the erosive action of the Hida River, possesses a sculptural beauty that conveys the power of nature.
Particularly during periods of high water flow, you can enjoy a dramatic landscape as the intense rush of water around the rock combines with the rock formation.
Other Points of Interest
Nakayama Shichiri has many other attractions beyond those mentioned above. Along the gorge are numerous unnamed unusual rocks, and while driving or traveling by train, you can enjoy the constantly changing scenery.
Charm of Nakayama Shichiri Throughout the Four Seasons
One of the great attractions of Nakayama Shichiri is that it displays a different appearance in each season. We introduce the highlights of each season in detail.
Spring in Nakayama Shichiri｜Performance of Cherry Blossoms and Rock Azaleas
Spring Nakayama Shichiri is also known as a cherry blossom viewing spot. From late March to early April, cherry blossoms planted along the gorge bloom all at once, creating a “cherry blossom tunnel” spanning approximately 28 km.
The cherry blossom trees lining the Hida River can be viewed from National Route 41 and the JR Takayama Main Line, allowing visitors to feel the arrival of spring through driving or train travel. The cherry blossom varieties center on Yoshino cherry, with wild cherry mixed in, and the slightly different blooming times allow cherry blossoms to be enjoyed over an extended period.
From mid-April through May, rock azaleas begin to bloom. The bright pink flowers blooming on the rocky surface create a beautiful contrast with the fresh greenery, adding to the spring mountain colors.
Summer in Nakayama Shichiri｜A Fantastic World of Fresh Greenery and Fireflies
Summer Nakayama Shichiri is enveloped in deep green. The fresh greenery covering the steep mountains, together with the clear waters of the Hida River, creates a refreshing landscape.
Particularly noteworthy are the fireflies visible from June through July. The clear waters of Nakayama Shichiri are home to Genji fireflies and Heike fireflies, which create a fantastical dance of light at night. Firefly viewing spots are located throughout the gorge, and local tourism associations provide information.
Summer is also a season for river play, and families enjoying water activities in the clear waters of the Hida River can be seen. However, since there are many rapid areas, safety precautions are essential.
Autumn in Nakayama Shichiri｜Spectacular Views of the 33 Best Mino Autumn Foliage
Autumn in Nakayama Shichiri is the season that attracts the most tourists in the year. From late October through mid-November, the entire gorge is enveloped in autumn foliage, and spectacular scenery selected as part of the “33 Best Mino Autumn Foliage” unfolds.
Broad-leaved trees such as Japanese maple, maple, and beech covering the steep mountains turn in varied colors of red, orange, and yellow, creating a striking contrast with the blue water surface of the Hida River. The autumn foliage around Byobu Rock and Arhat Rock is particularly spectacular, attracting many photography enthusiasts.
The autumn foliage viewed from the windows of the JR Takayama Main Line is also magnificent and has been selected as part of the “100 Best Japanese Train Views.” As the train slowly travels through the gorge, you can enjoy the constantly changing autumn foliage scenery.
Winter in Nakayama Shichiri｜Silent Beauty of Snow-Covered Landscape
Winter Nakayama Shichiri is enveloped in the silent beauty of a snow-covered landscape. From December through March, the entire gorge is covered in white snow, displaying a completely different appearance from summer and autumn.
Unusual rock formations covered in snow have the charm of ink paintings, evoking a sense of Japanese aesthetics. Particularly on clear days, the contrast between blue sky, white snow, and dark rock surfaces creates beautiful winter scenery.
Winter requires caution due to road freezing and snow accumulation, but National Route 41 remains passable with studless winter tires. With fewer tourists, winter offers the appeal of enjoying the scenery in quietness.
Access Methods and Transportation
Access to Nakayama Shichiri is available by both car and public transportation. Both methods are explained in detail below.
Access by Car
When using the Chuo Expressway
- From Nakatsugawa IC via Route 257, approximately 50 km, approximately 1 hour
- Also accessible from Nakatsugawa IC via Routes 19 and 41
When using the Tokai-Hokuriku Expressway
- From Gujo Hachiman IC via Routes 256 and 41, approximately 60 km, approximately 1 hour 20 minutes
Tourism via National Route 41
Since National Route 41 runs along the gorge in Nakayama Shichiri, you can enjoy the scenery while driving. Observation spots and parking spaces are provided along the road, allowing you to stop the car and enjoy photography and walking tours.
However, crowds may occur during autumn foliage season weekends, so it is recommended to plan with time to spare.
Access by Public Transportation
Using the JR Takayama Main Line
The JR Takayama Main Line passing through Nakayama Shichiri is an excellent transportation method for enjoying gorge beauty from the train windows.
- Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes from Nagoya Station to Gero Station on the Limited Express “Hida” on the JR Takayama Main Line
- From Gero Station, local trains pass through the Nakayama Shichiri section
- Yakeishi Station, Gero Station, and Hida Kanayama Station are the nearest stations to Nakayama Shichiri
Access from Yakeishi Station
You can reach a scenic viewpoint of the gorge in approximately 10 minutes on foot from Yakeishi Station.
Access from Gero Station
From Gero Station, you can use the Gero City Community Bus Nakahara Line and get off at Shigiya Bus Stop, from which the gorge is accessible in approximately 1 minute on foot.
Sightseeing from Train Windows
Viewing Nakayama Shichiri from the windows of the JR Takayama Main Line is particularly popular. As the train travels slowly along the Hida River, you can enjoy the continuously appearing unusual rock formations and gorge beauty while seated.
During the autumn foliage season, some limited express trains may operate at reduced speed to allow passengers to enjoy the scenery.
Surrounding Tourist Spots and Gero Hot Spring
When visiting Nakayama Shichiri, you can also enjoy surrounding tourist attractions.
Gero Hot Spring
Located north of Nakayama Shichiri, Gero Hot Spring is counted as one of Japan’s three most famous hot springs. Known as the “spring of beauty,” the alkaline simple hot spring is reputed to make skin smooth.
By combining Nakayama Shichiri tourism with lodging at Gero Hot Spring, you can create a fulfilling travel plan that combines natural scenery and hot spring bathing. Gero Hot Spring has many inns and hotels, and some accommodations offer outdoor baths overlooking the gorge from along the Hida River.
Hida Kanayama Townscape
Located at the southern end of Nakayama Shichiri, Hida Kanayama (Kanayama Town, Gero City) is a historic town that prospered as a post town on the Hida Highway. A district with old streetscapes remains and offers enjoyable walking tours.
Confluence of the Mase River
The confluence of the Hida River and the Mase River is located at the border between Hida and Mino provinces and marks the southern end of Nakayama Shichiri. This area also features beautiful gorge scenery and is one of the sights to see.
Precautions and Etiquette When Sightseeing
Please note the following points to safely enjoy Nakayama Shichiri.
Safety Precautions
- The area along the gorge has steep terrain in many places, so be careful of your footing while moving about
- When approaching the river, full attention must be paid to flooding and the speed of the current
- Winter road surfaces may be frozen or snow-covered, requiring appropriate equipment
- It is recommended to bring rain gear in preparation for sudden weather changes
Environmental Protection and Etiquette
- As this is within the Hida Kiso River National Government Park, please cooperate in protecting the natural environment
- Always take all litter with you and do not pollute nature
- Plant collection and writing on rocks are prohibited
- When taking photographs, be considerate of other tourists and avoid causing inconvenience
Best Season for Tourism
Nakayama Shichiri can be enjoyed throughout the year, but the following times are particularly popular.
- Cherry blossom season in spring: Late March to early April
- Season of fresh greenery: May to June
- Firefly season: June to July
- Autumn foliage season: Late October to mid-November
These periods may be crowded, so it is recommended to visit early in the day or during weekdays.
Ways to Enjoy Nakayama Shichiri Tourism
We introduce various ways to maximize your enjoyment of Nakayama Shichiri.
Enjoying by Driving
Driving tourism while traveling National Route 41 and enjoying the scenery at your own pace is the method with the most freedom. You can stop the car at a location you like and savor the scenery thoroughly.
Since there are multiple observation spots and parking spaces, checking a map in advance allows efficient sightseeing.
Enjoying by Train Travel
Viewing Nakayama Shichiri from the windows of the JR Takayama Main Line has the advantage of allowing you to focus on the scenery without worrying about driving. Particularly during autumn foliage season, train travel is recommended.
Using local trains allows for the added enjoyment of getting off at intermediate stations for walking tours and moving on by the next train.
Enjoying Photography
Nakayama Shichiri is an ideal photography spot for photography enthusiasts. There is no shortage of subjects—unusual rock formations, gorge beauty, and seasonal landscapes.
Particularly in early morning or evening light, you can capture fantastical photographs. If using a tripod, care must be taken not to obstruct the passage of other tourists.
Combining with Hot Springs
A plan to lodge at Gero Hot Spring and sightsee Nakayama Shichiri during the day is one of the most fulfilling ways to enjoy the area. After enjoying natural scenery, you can slowly relax your fatigue in the hot spring.
Dining and Gourmet Information in the Surrounding Area
In the area surrounding Nakayama Shichiri, you can enjoy cuisine unique to the Hida region.
Hida Beef
“Hida Beef,” a representative brand cattle of Gifu Prefecture, can be enjoyed at many restaurants within Gero City. It can be enjoyed in various cooking methods including steak, grilled meat, sukiyaki, and shabu-shabu.
Magnolia Leaf Miso
A local dish of the Hida region where magnolia leaves are topped with miso, vegetables, and mushrooms and grilled. It is characterized by the fragrant aroma of the magnolia leaf and the flavor of miso.
Sweetfish Cuisine
The Hida River is also known as a production area for sweetfish. From summer through autumn, you can enjoy fresh sweetfish salt-grilled and sweetfish rice porridge.
Goheimochi
A regional dish of central Japan where crushed rice is attached to a skewer and grilled, then coated with a sweet and savory sauce. It is also sold at roadside stations and shops in the Nakayama Shichiri area.
Tourist Information Office and Contact Information
Tourist information about Nakayama Shichiri can be obtained at the following facilities.
Gero City Comprehensive Tourism Information Center
- Phone: 0576-25-4711
- Location: In front of JR Gero Station
- Operating hours: 9:00–17:00 (hours vary by season)
Services provided include pamphlet distribution, tourism information, and accommodation facility introductions.
Gero City Tourism Association
The website provides the latest tourism information, event information, and autumn foliage forecast information.
Conclusion
Nakayama Shichiri (Gifu Prefecture) is a representative tourist destination of the Hida region offering magnificent gorge beauty spanning approximately 28 kilometers and natural scenery throughout the four seasons. The steep mountains and unusual rock formations formed by the erosion of the Hida River allow visitors to experience the wonder of natural sculptural beauty.
While touring famous sites such as Byobu Rock, Arhat Rock, Koshi Pond, and Fang Rock, fully savor the charm of Nakayama Shichiri’s different appearances throughout the seasons—cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery and fireflies in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snow scenes in winter.
The easy accessibility offered by driving along National Route 41 or viewing from the windows of the JR Takayama Main Line is another attraction. By creating a travel plan that combines Gero Hot Spring, you can enjoy a fulfilling trip that satisfies both natural scenery and hot spring bathing.
While protecting the valuable natural environment designated as the Hida Kiso River National Government Park, please fully enjoy the spectacular views of Nakayama Shichiri.
