Shosenkyo Gorge Complete Travel Guide
Shosenkyo Gorge is a granite ravine north of Kofu in Yamanashi Prefecture, designated a national Special Place of Scenic Beauty, with a walkable riverside trail, striking rock formations, and a ropeway up to panoramic Mt Fuji views.
Quick Facts
Best Things to Do
- Walk the roughly 5km riverside trail from Nagatoro Bridge to Sengataki Waterfall, passing oddly shaped granite rocks.
- Look for Kakuenbo, the tall granite pillar that is the gorge's best-known landmark.
- Ride the Shosenkyo Ropeway to Panorama-dai for views over the gorge toward Mt Fuji and the Southern Alps.
- Browse local crystal and gemstone crafts, a Shosenkyo specialty, and try hoto noodles at a riverside shop.
Tickets and Fees
Checked in July 2026: the gorge trail itself is free to walk. The Shosenkyo Ropeway charges a separate round-trip fare, and bus fares from Kofu Station vary by stop, roughly yen 710 to 1,090 one way. Confirm current bus timetables and ropeway prices before visiting, especially on peak autumn weekends.
How to Get There
From Kofu Station, take a bus bound for Shosenkyo, about 30 to 50 minutes depending on the stop, or drive in around 30 minutes. Kofu itself is about 90 minutes from Shinjuku Station via the JR Chuo Line limited express.
Nearby Attractions
Shosenkyo pairs well with other stops around Kofu, including Katsunuma Wineries and Erin-ji Temple, both within a reasonable drive.
Book Before You Go
Use official information for opening hours and ticket rules, then book tours or tickets only when they fit your route.