Kiyotsu Gorge

Fantasy Space Created by a Tunnel of Light

Nearby Ryokans

What Is Kiyotsu Gorge?

Located in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, Kiyotsu Gorge is one of Japan’s three great gorges, alongside Kurobe Gorge and Osugidani Gorge. Towering cliffs rise in a dramatic V-shape on either side of the Kiyotsu River, forming a striking landscape characterized by “columnar joints”—hexagonal rock pillars lined neatly along the canyon walls.

The area has long been known for its hot springs, with a local hot spring resort established in 1862. In 1941, Kiyotsu Gorge was designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument, continuing to captivate visitors with its powerful natural beauty.

Once, a walking path was built along the river in Kiyotsu Gorge, offering a route where visitors could see columnar jointing up close.However, the path was closed after a massive avalanche in 1984. In response, the 750-meter-long “Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel” was constructed in 1996.

. Designed by MAD Architects, led by Chinese architect Ma Yansong, this tunnel of light has transformed Kiyotsu Gorge into a new, fantastical art space attracting significant attention.

Highlights of Kiyotsu Gorge

The Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel consists of three elements: the entrance facility, the art installations within the tunnel, and the natural beauty of the gorge.

The entrance facility “Periscope” features a souvenir shop and foot bath, while small windows in the conical ceiling on the second floor offer views of the natural scenery of Kiyotsu Gorge.

The 750-meter-long tunnel is designed to resemble a submarine, with the artwork unfolding at a viewing point midway through the tunnel and at the panoramic station at its deepest point. It was created with the aim of prompting visitors to reconsider the relationship between humans and nature through an artistic space utilizing the natural “five elements” (wood, earth, metal, fire, water).

At the tunnel’s deepest point, the “Panorama Station,” the water-covered floor acts as a mirror reflecting the gorge scenery. The crystal-clear Kiyotsu River, rock walls, surrounding greenery, autumn leaves, and even your own silhouette fantastically overlap on the water’s surface. This spot, where the majestic landscape of Kiyotsu Gorge emerges, is a prime photo location that makes you want to snap pictures.

Summer brings a refreshing coolness: inside the tunnel, the temperature stays around 21–24°C, making it feel like a “natural air conditioner.” Outside, visitors can take off their shoes and enjoy dipping their feet in the crystal-clear Kiyotsu River, a delightful way to cool off on hot days.

How to Enjoy Kiyotsu Gorge: Tips for Your Visit

The Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel stretches about 750 meters one way, taking roughly 40 minutes round trip to explore at a leisurely pace. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as some areas can be damp. At the Panorama Station, visitors can step into the shallow water for photos, so it’s best to bring shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting wet, as well as a towel. Since parts of the tunnel are dimly lit, take care with your footing and use the handrails as you walk.

For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or on weekday mornings. During busy periods—such as the autumn foliage season, Golden Week (a long holiday period in late April and early May), or mid-August summer holidays, it’s recommended to make a reservation on the official website in advance. The parking lot can fill up quickly, so aim to arrive early. Note that from July through November, high-season pricing applies.

After your walk, relax and soothe your feet in the footbath at the entrance facility, a perfect way to unwind.

To make the most of your trip, consider exploring nearby attractions as well. The region features other installations from the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, the Kiyotsukan Hot Spring Inn where you can enjoy an open-air bath overlooking the gorge, local soba restaurants serving the area’s specialty hegi soba noodles, and scenic terraced rice fields that showcase the charm of Tokamachi’s rural landscape.

Basic Information

Opening Hours:
March–November: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (last entry 5:00 PM)
December–February: 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM (last entry 4:00 PM)
※ Closed during severe winter weather conditions.

Admission Fees：

・High Season (Apr 21 – Nov 20): Adults ¥1,200 / Children (Elementary & Junior High) ¥500
・Off Season (Nov 21 – Apr 20): Adults ¥1,000 / Children ¥400
※ Free admission for preschoolers and visitors with a disability certificate.

Official Website：https://nakasato-kiyotsu.com/

Access

Address: 2119-2 Koideku, Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture 949-8433, Japan

Access (Public Transport):
From Echigo-Yuzawa Station on the JR Joetsu Shinkansen Line, take the Tokamachi City Bus bound for Morimiyanohara. Get off at Kiyotsukyo Iriguchi (Kiyotsu Gorge Entrance) after about 30 minutes, then walk approximately 20 minutes to the site.

Access (By Car):
About 20 minutes from the Shiozawa-Ishiuchi IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway via Route 353.
Free parking available (approx. 155 spaces).