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Ukan Valley
Ukan Valley
Ukan Valley
Ukan Valley
Okayama

Ukan Valley, Kibichuo

3.7 (427)Scenic SpotTourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment
Last updated Mar 29, 2026

Ukan Valley is a natural gorge located in Kibichuo Town, Kaga District, Okayama Prefecture, Japan. The valley spans 5 kilometers where the Ukanawa River, a tributary of the Asahikawa River, has carved through rocks creating a dramatic mountain landscape. The torrential flow has formed strangely shaped rocks accompanied by seasonal foliage including maples and sumac, with autumn leaves being especially spectacular.

The valley is designated as part of Kibi Seiryu Prefectural Natural Park, recognizing its natural significance within the region. The area is situated in Takahashi, known as one of Okayama's hidden treasures. Kibichuo itself is located north of Okayama city, through the woods and up a mountain, in a highland area characterized by serene tranquility. The town is famous for its grapes and peaches, contributing to the agricultural heritage of the region.

Visitors can explore the valley's walking paths, including the senryu trail alongside the symbolic Red Bridge. The surrounding area features Mount Ohira, a paragliding spot offering fantastic views, and unique stone windmills. The largest stone windmill has a diameter of 242 cm and weighs 2 tons, yet rotates even in gentle breezes. The Ukan Windmill of Stone Park operates from 9:00 to 5:00 and is closed during New Year holidays, with 95 free parking spaces available. The area also includes Gion-ji temple, located in nearby Kose.

Access to Ukan Gorge is approximately 30 minutes from Sanyo Expressway Okayama IC by car. The site provides parking for 100 regular cars with space for buses. Kibichuo does not have passenger railway service, making private vehicle the most practical transport option. The gorge entrance is free to access. Contact information for inquiries is available at 0866-54-1301.

The area

Address
Shimogamo, Kibichuo, Kaga District, Okayama 709-2331, Japan

What other travelers are saying about Ukan Valley, Kibichuo

Cool park in the mountains with nice views over the river.

Nearby attractions to see

Uno Port Inn

Uno Port Inn

Takashimizu Trail

Takashimizu Trail, Kagamino

Otabujima Island

Otabujima Island, Bizen

Yuga Shrine (Main Shrine)

Yuga Shrine (Main Shrine)

Nearby attractions to see

Uno Port Inn

Uno Port Inn

Takashimizu Trail

Takashimizu Trail, Kagamino

Otabujima Island

Otabujima Island, Bizen

Yuga Shrine (Main Shrine)

Yuga Shrine (Main Shrine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Autumn is the best time to visit Ukan Valley, when the maple and sumac foliage creates spectacular displays throughout the gorge. The changing leaves transform the 5-kilometer valley into a vibrant landscape of reds and golds. Spring and summer also offer pleasant conditions for walking the trails and viewing the rock formations carved by the Ukanawa River.

Ukan Valley is located approximately 30 minutes by car from Sanyo Expressway Okayama IC. The area does not have passenger railway service, so visitors need private transportation to reach the site. Parking is available for 100 regular cars and buses at no charge.

Visitors can walk the senryu trail to view strangely shaped rocks carved by the river, photograph the symbolic Red Bridge, and experience the seasonal foliage. The surrounding area includes Mount Ohira for paragliding with panoramic views, and the Ukan Windmill of Stone Park featuring massive stone windmills, including one weighing 2 tons that rotates in gentle breezes.

Basic facilities include a large parking area accommodating 100 cars and buses. For additional information and assistance, visitors can contact the local tourism office at 0866-54-1301. The nearby Ukan Windmill of Stone Park operates from 9:00 to 17:00 with 95 parking spaces and is closed during New Year holidays.
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Judy OBrien
Sep 20, 2021
Should not go until autumn
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Evo Bayar
Jul 2, 2024
very quiet and fresh air.
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masato saito
Apr 22, 2023
On the first day of November, it was still a little too early for the autumn leaves to change color. I think the best time to see them would be around mid-November. There are restaurants and drink establishments, and a beautiful toilet modelled after a cave. I returned on November 22nd and the area was dyed bright red. The autumn leaves shining against the clear blue sky were very beautiful. There were many people there, and the restaurants were open, so I had grilled sweetfish skewers and a slightly spicy game meat curry made with wild boar and venison. Just beyond the suspension bridge, hydrangeas were blooming, out of season.
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白石俊光
Nov 23, 2025
There are only a few parking spaces, but the turnover is fast, so even if you wait, a spot opens up within a few minutes. Also, I think it's only during the autumn foliage season, so you should be able to find a spot easily at other times. The view was beautiful, and the sound of the river and the birdsong was soothing.
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Р Я
Nov 23, 2025