Oboke Gorge
Oboke Gorge, A Steep Schist Gorge On The Yoshino River In Tokushima On Shikoku, Seen From A Sightseeing Boat Or From The Dosan Line, A Gateway To The Iya Valley. Short Boat Rides, Rafting In Summer. · Miyoshi, Tokushima
Oboke Gorge is a steep stretch of the Yoshino River in Miyoshi, Tokushima, on Shikoku, where the water has cut through bands of schist to leave sharp grey cliffs and rapids. The gorge runs for roughly 8 km - confirm - and the easiest way to see it is a sightseeing boat of about 30 minutes that drifts between the rock walls from a landing near Oboke Station. In winter some boats are fitted with a kotatsu, a heated low table, so passengers stay warm - confirm. Rafting runs from spring to autumn, and the Dosan Line train gives glimpses of the valley. The smaller Koboke Gorge lies upstream. Oboke is also the gateway to the Iya Valley. A car or bus is needed, the roads are narrow and steep, and a short stop of a few hours is enough. It is worth the detour if you are already crossing Shikoku, and not worth a long trip for the boat alone. Dress warmly, since the valley is shaded and the mountain weather changes fast.
Oboke, Miyoshi, Tokushima, by the JR Dosan Line from Awa-Ikeda or Kotohira and a short walk to the boat landing, Miyoshi, Tokushima, Japan
The boats run through the day, usually from morning to mid afternoon, with fewer departures in winter and when the river is high or low - confirm times. They operate year round, with kotatsu boats in the cold months. Rafting is a seasonal activity, roughly spring to autumn, and needs a booking with an operator. From Takamatsu or Kotohira, take the JR Dosan Line to Oboke, about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, then walk or take a short taxi to the landing. Trains are infrequent, so check the last service back. A car makes the stop far easier. IC cards may not work at small stations, so carry cash.