Okuizumo, Oni no Shitafuri and Orochi Loop: A Hidden Gorge Scenic Drive

A full-day gorge drive course exploring the hidden treasures of Okuizumo Town in Shimane Prefecture's mountains. In the morning, visit Oni no Shitafuri, a gorge designated as a National Beauty Site and Natural Monument. Walking along the footpath through the V-shaped valley carved by the Omaki River, with massive boulders in succession, you'll be captivated by the views from the suspension bridge where romantic legends are said to linger. After viewing the historic residence and beautiful Izumo-style garden of the Itohara family, who prospered through tatara iron production, the afternoon brings you to the Okuizumo Orochi Loop, one of Japan's largest double-loop roads. The exhilarating sensation of spiraling upward along the road, inspired by the Yamata no Orochi coiling around itself, can only be experienced here. The day concludes at the Okuizumo Tatara and Sword Museum, where you learn about the birthplace of Japanese swords—a full day packed with deep nature and the culture of iron.