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If you visit Yamanaka Onsen, don't miss the walking trail along Kakusenkei Gorge. Just walking while listening to the river is wonderful.
But what if you knew that the three bridges over Kakusenkei Gorge each have their own unique story? This knowledge will make your walk much more interesting and memorable.
This article introduces the three bridges of Kakusenkei Gorge in Yamanaka Onsen (Kurotani Bridge, Ayatori Bridge, and Korogi Bridge).
For directions to Kakusenkei, please see the end of the article below.
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Kurotani Bridge: A Bridge for History and Reflection
The first bridge you meet on the walking trail is Kurotani Bridge, a strong stone bridge. This bridge has a quiet and calm charm, different from the other two bridges.
The View That Matsuo Basho Loved
The best thing about Kurotani Bridge is its historical background. Matsuo Basho was a famous haiku poet who lived 300 years ago in Japan. He visited this place and loved the view from here. When you stand on the bridge, you can see the same view that Basho saw. It feels like you are connected to history across time.
Stone and Water: A Beautiful Contrast
The bridge is made of heavy stone that doesn't change over hundreds of years. Below the bridge, water flows and changes constantly. This contrast between things that stay the same and things that change creates a deep and peaceful feeling.
Travel Tips
Stop on the bridge and close your eyes for a moment. Listen to the sound of the river and wind. You might feel the echo of history. Looking at the river from the top of the bridge is especially beautiful!
Ayatori Bridge: Art Meets Nature
As you continue walking, you will see a beautiful wine-red bridge called Ayatori Bridge. This unique bridge is a wonderful surprise in the gorge.
Designed by a Famous Film Director and Ikebana Master
This bridge was designed by Teshigahara Hiroshi, who was both the head master of Sogetsu School of Ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement) and a world-famous film director. Because he was an artist who didn't follow traditional rules, he created this bold and playful bridge. Here you can enjoy not only "harmony with nature" but also "dialogue between nature and art."
The Concept: Ayatori (Cat's Cradle)
The S-shaped curve of the bridge is inspired by "ayatori," a traditional Japanese string game. In ayatori, you make various shapes with a loop of string using your fingers (similar to Cat's Cradle in English). When you walk on the bridge, you might feel a slight movement, like walking on a string. This might be part of the careful design. Take your time to enjoy the unique design and the view from the bridge.
Travel Tips
Ayatori Bridge is a must-see spot for photography lovers. The modern bridge against the green gorge looks beautiful from any angle. You can also see the bridge from the "Kawadoko" riverside cafe nearby.
Korogi Bridge: Traditional Cypress Wood Bridge
At the end of the walking trail, you reach Korogi Bridge, the symbol of Yamanaka Onsen. Let's discover why so many people feel the traditional atmosphere here.
Built Entirely from Cypress Wood
This bridge uses traditional Japanese construction methods with almost no nails. It is made only from hinoki (Japanese cypress), a very high-quality wood. Like shrines and temples, this bridge shows deep respect for wood as a material. When you walk on it, you can hear the pleasant sound of wood. After rain, you can smell the gentle fragrance of cypress.
The Story Behind the Name
The name "Korogi" has two possible origins. One comes from "korogi" (crickets in Japanese) that sing on autumn nights. The other comes from "koro-ki" (dangerous road), because the road here was very steep in old times. Behind this beautiful bridge lies the history of people who lived together with nature.
Travel Tips
When you cross this bridge, notice the feeling of wood under your feet and look for signs of the craftsmen's handwork. You can feel the deep culture of wood in Japan.
