Shosenkyo Gorge

▲Sengataki Waterfall

The Shosenkyo Gorge is located amidst a forested region with various rock formations and waterfalls. It is often regarded as a national treasure for its exuberance that can be enjoyed in all seasons. Famous for preserving the excellent quality of its waters, the gorge is included in the "Heisei Era 100 Best Water Sites," which recognizes sites for their sustainability, water availability, harmony of the wildlife and preservation level. A hiking path leads for about 4 km along the Arakawa River from the Nagatoro Bridge to the Sengataki Waterfall. Located north of Kofu City in Yamanashi, it has direct and convenient bus access from Kofu Station.

Nagashi Somen Noodles

Above the Sengataki waterfall, there is a small village consisting of souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants, and the starting point for the Shosenkyo Ropeway. Also located in this area, is a restaurant called En-emon, which serves traditional Nagashi Somen Noodles. The term "nagashi" can be translated as something flowing, being set adrift, or washed away. Somen is the name of thin, white Japanese noodles made from wheat flour. The term Nagashi Somen refers to the traditional and peculiar way of enjoying this dish, especially during the summer season.

First, you hold your bowl of Mentsuyu, a noodle soup base made of soy sauce, mirin (a sweet sake widely used in Japanese cuisine) and hondashi (fish sauce). Then, the noodles are served in a stream of running water and “hooked” with chopsticks. Once you can catch your portion of somen, simply rest it for a moment in your bowl before indulging yourself in this traditional Japanese meal!

Forest Shadows Museum (Shosenkyo)

 
▲Forest Shadows Museum

Another must-see attraction in Shosenkyo area is the Forest Shadows Museum. The main attraction is the art of Seiji Fujishiro, the artist who expresses himself through the shadows. Using various combinations of cut paper overlaid thoroughly in contrast to different lights makes for beautiful art pieces. With the help of mirrors and water containers, light is controlled and a range of visual effects are achieved.

Fujishiro's works transport us to a fantastic, psychedelic and mysterious world. Unfortunately,  photography is not allowed in the special exhibition room. Therefore, to understand Fujishiro's art, you must visit the museum yourself.

▲Souvenir shop (near the museum exit)

For information about the hours, admission fees, and more, visit their website:
https://www.kageenomori.jp/

Cable Car

▲Cable car loading dock

Located in an area of restaurants and cafés, the cable car gives access to the highest part of the mountain complex. Suspended at a height of up to 300 meters, the cable car (with a capacity of 46 people) travels 1,015 meteres in approximately 5 minutes. At the lower station departure/arrival area, you can enjoy a beautiful koi pond.

Each of the two cable cars (round trip) have a conductor who narrates the route, providing special and detailed information about the landscape.

Panorama Station is located at the top of the park, which has a snack bar and a beautiful view of Mt. Fuji.

▲Panorama Station

Next to the cable car landing area, you can find Yakumo Shrine, which was built over 400 years ago. Formerly known for protecting the way of those who left their prayers there, today, the sanctuary is a popular destination for those seeking blessings in marriage.   

On the other side, you will find a trail that leads to the highest point of the park. It takes around 20 minutes on foot, but is one of our top-recommended spots. The landscape is absolutely gorgeous!