Geibikei is a gorge about 2km long, carved out by the Satetsu river, with cliffs towering overhead at heights of 50-100 meters. The name “geibi”, meaning “Lion’s Nose”, comes from a limestone formation near one end of the gorge resembling just that.
Famously, Geibikei also offers a 90-minute boat cruise up and down the river, enjoying views of the rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and the clear water. At the headwaters, you can disembark at a sandbar for a brief walk to a larger waterfall, and a chance to try your throwing arm with the “luck stones.” Each stone represents a different kind of good fortune, so choose your favorite, pitch it across the river into a small cave mouth in the cliffside, and it may come true! Finally, on the return journey, enjoy the boatman’s traditional river song as he poles you along. Boats operate year-round, so covered crafts with heaters are deployed in the winter months, and even offer the option for a warming hot-pot soup during the ride.
(Designated a special historic site by the Japanese government)
VENUE DETAILS
- Address
- Nagasaka Azamachi, Higashiyama-cho, Ichinoseki
029-0302 岩手県一関市東山町長坂字町467 - Hours
- 8:30-16:00 Apr.1-Nov.5, 8:30-15:30 Nov.6-Nov.10, 8:30-15:00 Nov.11-Nov.20, 9:30-15:00 Nov.21-Mar.31
- Regular holidays
- Open daily
- Admission
- Adults 1,800 yen, Students 1,200 yen, Infants 200 yen. 10% group discount for 15+, 20% for 100+. Parking fee 500 yen at boat launch, or free at Geibi Rest House / Higashiyama Kanko Hotel
- Other
- River Cruise lasts approx. 90 minutes. Information in English: http://www.machinet.jp/geibikanko/gif/e.pdf Information in Chinese: http://www.machinet.jp/geibikanko/gif/c.pdf
- Access 1
- 32 Minutes by rail from Ichinoseki Station (Ofunato line), and 5 minute walk to boat launch
- Access 2
- 42 minutes via #7 bus from Ichinoseki Station (Geibikei line)
- Access 3
- 30 minute drive from Ichinoseki Interchange
- URL
- http://www.geibikei.co.jp/en/index.html