Kyusuikei Gorge (九酔渓)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A deep gorge carved by the Naruko River (鳴子川), a tributary of the Kusu River (玖珠川), and a representative scenic spot in Kokonoe with cliffs towering on both banks. A switchback road called 'Jusan Magari' (十三曲がり) runs along the gorge, and the scenery woven from rock face and greenery changes with every curve. From the observation deck you can take in the sheer cliffs and valley at a glance, and the view, which changes color with the seasons - fresh green in spring, autumn foliage in fall - is a perfect prelude to the drive. Teahouses stand along the road too, letting you enjoy the gorge's beauty while taking a break. Since you'll later look down on this same gorge from Kokonoe Yume Otsuribashi, the contrast between the two perspectives - looking up from the valley and looking down from the sky - is a pleasure unique to this course.

Tips

The switchback road has continuous curves and some narrow stretches, so drive carefully. Parking at the observation area is limited, so arriving early in the morning is reassuring on weekends during the autumn foliage season. If you're prone to car sickness, having motion sickness medicine on hand is reassuring.

Best time to visit

About 45 minutes. In the morning, when the light streams into the valley, the air is clear and the gorge's greenery looks even more vivid.

Access & map

〒879-4723 大分県玖珠郡九重町町田