Discover Takachiho: A Guide to Local Attractions and Accommodations (Sobo, Katamuki and Okue Biosphere Reserve)

Designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument. The sheer cliffs of columnar jointing, formed by the cooling and solidification of Aso pyroclastic flows, symbolize the dynamism of the Earth. The view of the waterfall looking up from a boat is spectacular.

One of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains and an iconic peak encompassing the "Core Area" of the Biosphere Reserve. It is a sacred mountain featuring rich primeval beech forests and serving as a habitat for the Japanese serow, a Special Natural Monument.

Renowned for the mystical sea of clouds that envelops the area under early morning conditions from autumn through winter. It is an ethereal location where the legend remains that the grandson of Emperor Jimmu surveyed the land from this spot.

A sacred site enshrining the "Amanoiwato" cave—where the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami is said to have hidden—as its object of worship. Surrounded by the deep greenery and silence along the Iwato River, it carries a sacred atmosphere unique to this mythological setting.

A legendary cavern where eight million deities are said to have gathered. The sight of countless stacked stones creates a mystical and solemn atmosphere that evokes the origins of nature worship.

An ancient shrine where the 800-year-old Chichibu Cedar stands tall. In the evenings, "Takachiho Kagura," designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property, is performed. Through this dance, visitors can experience the local perspective on nature.

Designated as one of "Japan's Top 100 Terraced Rice Fields." Built with stone walls on steep mountain slopes, these terraces are a testament to how the local people have adapted to and coexisted with nature.

A legendary site where mythological deities are said to have descended. Surrounded by primeval forest, the tranquil grounds allow visitors to experience the richness of the Biosphere Reserve's natural environment.

A sacred mountain said to be the site of the heavenly descent in Japanese mythology. In spring, the mountain slopes are colored with blooming Akebono azaleas, captivating hikers.

A scenic plateau offering a 360-degree panoramic view overlooking Mt. Aso and Mt. Unzen.

Japan's largest natural habitat for the Kumagaiso (Cypripedium japonicum), a prefectural natural monument designated as an endangered species. This forest preserves a precious ecosystem where the pulse of nature can be felt.

Enjoy a relaxing stay enveloped in the serenity of the gorge, and immerse yourself in the mythical atmosphere of the area. Offering easy access to the Yokagura dances performed nightly at Takachiho Shrine, these accommodations serve as an ideal base for sightseeing.

Accommodations set amid terraced rice fields, and lodgings where interacting with locals is part of the appeal. They are the ideal choice for experiencing the everyday life of Takachiho.

A campground set in a beautiful forest, offering a relaxing stay close to nature.

A "campground in the sky" located at an altitude of 1,200 meters, offering panoramic views of Mt. Aso and the Sobo mountain range.