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Want to escape the crowds of Tokyo and Kyoto? In Yamanaka Onsen, one of Ishikawa's Kaga hot spring towns, Kakusenkei Gorge offers the perfect natural retreat.
The highlights? A seasonal riverside terrace café (April-November) and a scenic 1.3km trail connecting three unique bridges. Picture yourself sipping tea beside a crystal-clear stream, surrounded by lush greenery—it's an unforgettable soul-soothing experience.
Kakusenkei Riverside Terrace: Your Seasonal Escape
The must-do experience at Kakusenkei is the Kakusenkei Kawadoko—a traditional riverside terrace cafe open April through November. Sit just above the flowing river, surrounded by nature, enjoying tea and sweets in this unique outdoor setting.
What Makes the Riverside Terrace Special?
Nature with all five senses: Crystal stream, mountain breeze, birdsong, and forest scents. A retreat you can't find in the city.
Exclusive Japanese Sweets: Desserts by Yamanaka native Chef Rokusaburo Michiba. Try the "Kawadoko Roll" or "Chilled Matcha Shiruko" with Kaga roasted twig tea.
Perfect Trail Stop: Located beside the striking S-shaped Ayatori Bridge.
Visiting the Riverside Terrace
Information about the Kawadoko's operating hours and prices.
Hours & Season
April 1 - October 31, 9:30 - 16:00
November 1 - November 30, 10:00 - 15:00
Last order 15 minutes before closing
Closed during rain or high water levels
Pricing
The best way to enjoy the riverside terrace is the "Kawadoko Set"—sweets plus seating. Order this and choose any available terrace seat!
Kawadoko Set: ¥700 (adults) / ¥600 (elementary students)
Includes your choice of: chilled matcha shiruko, kawadoko roll, or seasonal specialSeat Charge Only: ¥400 (adults) / ¥300 (elementary students)
Includes Kaga roasted twig tea
¥100 discount for guests staying at Yamanaka Onsen Ryokan Association member innsSummer Drinks: Iced coffee or orange juice - ¥300 each (plus seat charge)
No reservations accepted - first come, first served!
Travel Tips
Best Times to Visit
May brings fresh green leaves, while November offers breathtaking autumn colors. Summer is perfect for escaping the heat.What to Wear
The walking trail is well-maintained, but comfortable shoes (sneakers) are recommended.Access: Start from JR Kaga Onsen Station. Take the Kaga Onsen Bus bound for Yamanaka Onsen and get off at "Yamanaka Onsen Bus Terminal." The trailhead is just a few minutes' walk from there. Please see the below of this article.
📍 Yamanaka Onsen Bus Terminal (Google Maps)
Why the Riverside Terrace Feels So Special
The peaceful atmosphere isn't just luck—it's rooted in centuries of Japanese wisdom.
Ancient Cooling Wisdom
Kawadoko originated in Kyoto to beat summer heat. Kakusenkei continues this "cooling with nature" philosophy—cool river breeze, vivid greenery, and soothing water sounds create natural relaxation that air conditioning can't match.
Beautiful Arrangement
The special atmosphere comes partly from the natural surroundings, but also from careful "shitsurai"—the art of arranging a space beautifully.
Red Wagasa (umbrella): Traditional tea ceremony umbrellas pop against green landscape, creating elegant contrast.
Platform Over the River: Extending over water lets you feel the breeze and hear the stream up close. This perfect distance from nature is pure luxury.
Every element, from the umbrellas to the platform placement, is a subtle form of hospitality designed to enrich your experience.
"Omotenashi," a unique local hospitality
The sweets and "seat charge" reflect Japanese values—you're paying for the entire experience: view, ambiance, and moment itself.
As you sip tea, notice the scenery, the careful space arrangement, and the quality of time. Practice mindfulness here. You'll discover happiness from truly experiencing the moment.
No reservations needed—drop by during your walk. This isn't just a café; it's a cultural experience of Japanese aesthetics and nature connection.
Walk the Trail: Three Bridges, One Beautiful Path
Kakusenkei Gorge features a well-maintained 1.3km walking trail. Even at a leisurely pace, it takes only 30-40 minutes. Along the way, you'll encounter three completely different bridges, each with its own personality, while enjoying the gorge's natural beauty.
Three Unique Bridges to Discover
Walking between these three bridges that symbolize Yamanaka Onsen is one of the best parts of the Kakusenkei trail.
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1. Start: Koorogi Bridge - Traditional Cypress Beauty
I recommend starting your walk at the charming Koorogi Bridge. Built entirely from cypress (hinoki) wood, it showcases the beauty of traditional Japanese wooden architecture. The way it harmonizes with the surrounding greenery looks like a painting. The gorge view from here is the perfect way to begin your journey.
2. Midpoint: Ayatori Bridge - Modern S-Shaped Art
As you walk from Koorogi Bridge, you'll spot the striking wine-red design of Ayatori Bridge. This unique structure was designed to resemble "ayatori," the traditional Japanese string game (similar to cat's cradle). It's a stunning fusion of architecture and nature—and incredibly photogenic. The riverside terrace café sits right at the foot of this bridge.
3. Finish: Kurotani Bridge - Historic Stone Elegance
The trail ends at the imposing stone Kurotani Bridge. The view from here was reportedly praised by the famous haiku poet Matsuo Basho. Nearby, you'll find a small shrine dedicated to Basho, connecting you to Japan's literary and historical heritage.
Getting There: Bus Access & Walking Routes
Here's how to reach Kakusenkei Gorge's three bridges from the train station, and which route to take. Remember: the riverside terrace cafe (Kawadoko) is located at the bottom of Ayatori Bridge.
From JR Kaga Onsen Station by Bus
Exit the main entrance of JR Kaga Onsen Station and take a local bus (Kaga Onsen Bus) from platform #2. The ride takes about 30 minutes and costs ¥430.
Payment Options:
Cash: Take a numbered ticket when boarding, then pay with cash when you get off
Credit Card: Visa, Mastercard, etc. are accepted. Tap your card at the reader when boarding and again when getting off (no numbered ticket needed)
Note: Suica IC cards are NOT accepted
Which Bus Stop to Choose:
Yamanaka Onsen Bus Terminal → Start from Kurotani Bridge (peaceful bridge, then toward the hot spring town)
Kiku-no-Yu-mae or Koorogi-bashi-mae → Start from Koorogi Bridge (closer to the hot spring town)
📍 Yamanaka Onsen Bus Terminal(Google Maps)
📍 Kikunoyu-mae bus stop (Google Maps)
Recommended Walking Routes
The Kakusenkei trail is 1.3km long and takes 30-40 minutes. You can start from either end!
Route 1: Kurotani Bridge → Ayatori Bridge → Koorogi Bridge (from Bus Terminal)
Easy to stop at the riverside terrace café midway, and you finish in the hot spring town.Route 2: Koorogi Bridge → Ayatori Bridge → Kurotani Bridge (from Kiku-no-Yu-mae)
Start with the famous Koorogi Bridge, and easily combine with exploring the hot spring town.
