Geibikei Gorge (not to be confused with the nearby Gembikei Gorge!) offers a wonderful contrast between the soaring cliffs on either side and the calm, clear water that passes between them. About 20 kilometers east of Hiraizumi, the gorge is a big tourist draw, but don’t let that keep you away. Once you’ve clambered into the wooden boat along with the other visitors, the boatman will heave on his wooden pole and you’re off. For the next couple of hours, you’ll pass one gorgeous view after another, all the more stunning if you come in autumn. The clear water teems in places with fish, including colorful carp.

The boatmen are also well known for their storytelling and singing. If you don’t understand Japanese, don’t worry about it. You’ll still have a good time, and the singing can be pretty impressive. On one recent trip, the actual lyrics of the song went something like “Thanks for riding in my boat on this sunny day. We’re all enjoying Geibikei Gorge, it’s great. Thanks for coming!” So you may actually be better off if you don’t understand what your boatman is saying, and can just bask in the style with which he says it. And halfway through your journey, you’ll be given the chance to throw stones across the river into a small hole in the opposite cliff face. If you succeed, your luck or happiness is assured! Geibikei Gorge, it’s great.

-Matt Mangham

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