Outline

Cliffs on both sides of Rairai Gorge are divided by the Natori-gawa River and the sharply eroded huge rocks hanging over the river add a spectacular view of natural wonder. Unique names are given to these rocks such as "Hachiken-iwa" and "Nariai-soko". All the rocks are made of quartz and esite-tuff (also called "Akiyu-ishi") because it is a highly fire resistant material which is used for construction. Along the lower reaches of the gorge runs a promenade where you can enjoy a closer view of the natural beauty of the valley. "Rairai-kyo" was named in 1931 by Komiya Toyotaka, an honorable professor at Tohoku University who was a pupil of Natsume Souseki.

Highlights

The gorge runs 1 kilometer down and up from Nozoki-bashi Bridge on the gateway to Akiu Hot springs.

Information

[Address] Yumoto, Akiu-cho, Taihaku, Sendai, Japan
[Access] From JR Sendai Sta. (West entrance) Go to bus pool #8 for Akiu-onsen and get off at Nozokibashi
[Estimated fare] From JR Sendai Sta. by Miyagi-kotsu bus 800
[Nearby tourist spots] Akiu Kogeino-sato (Art and craft village), Akiu Shinrin-koen (Park), Tenshukaku (castle tower) Natural Park