Takachiho Gorge Autumn Leaves: Peak Time, Illumination, Access & Crowds

Overview

A gorge lined with cliffs of columnar joints formed when pyroclastic flows from Aso cooled and hardened. In autumn maples and zelkovas change color, and you can see them together with Manai Falls.

Address: Oshioi, Mitai, Takachiho-cho, Nishiusuki-gun, Miyazaki 882-1101
Closed: Rental boats are closed when the river is high and on regular inspection days (in January, April, July and October)
Official website: https://takachiho-kanko.info/

Area weather

TakachihoWeather and what to wear in Takachiho →

Tours & tickets for this areaPR

Peak Time

When to See the Leaves

Typical peakUsually early to late November

September

October

November

December

The timing of the colors varies from year to year. The Takachiho Town Tourism Association sometimes posts autumn leaves information in its news

Peak times are typical guides. The timing shifts with each year’s temperatures.

Highlights

The gorge is surrounded by cliffs averaging 80 m and reaching 100 m in places, and the 17 m Manai Falls is one of Japan’s 100 Best Waterfalls. The autumn leaves and the falls seen from the water by boat are exceptional.

📷 Best views

Manai Falls

A 17 m waterfall, viewed from the walking trail’s observation point or from a boat

Takachiho’s three bridges

A spot where you can see three arch bridges at once

Sennin no Byobu-iwa

A rock face where columnar joints line up like a folding screen

Hours

Opening hours

Rental boats8:30–17:00

Last reception 16:30. May close earlier depending on waiting times

Hours can change by season and for events. Check the official website before you go.

Admission

Gorge and walking trailFree

Rental boat (30 min, up to 3 people per boat)¥4,100–¥5,100 (varies by day)

2026 prices. Extensions ¥1,000 per 10 min

Prices may change. Check the official website before you go.

Tips

Tips for travelers

✓Same-day boat tickets are also sold on a first-come, first-served basis, but book online to be sure of a ride

Access

Getting there

Nearest station / bus stop: Takachiho Bus CenterAbout 6–8 min by car, or about 30 min on foot
From major stations & airports: Miyazaki Airport: Car (About 2 hr 15 min)
Kumamoto Airport: Car (About 1 hr 25 min)
JR Nobeoka Station: Miyazaki Kotsu bus to Takachiho Bus Center (About 90 min)
By car & parking: Several paid parking lots (No. 1 Oshioi ¥1,000 is for boat users; No. 3 Ohashi ¥800 and No. 4 Oshigata ¥500 are free for the first 60 min)

Open in Google Maps ↗

Crowds

Crowds & best times

Busiest: At the peak, advance boat reservation slots fill up quickly

Weather

Temperature & what to wear

Typical temperatures: November normals for Takachiho: high 17.2°C, low 5.3°C (Japan Meteorological Agency)
What to wear & bring: Mornings and evenings are cold, so bring a warm jacket such as a down jacket. The walking trail has slopes and steps, so wear comfortable walking shoes

☁ Kyushu weather by month

January February March April May June July August September October November December

Rules