Dramatic gorge scenery of Oboke and Koboke experienced by boat, revealing sculpted cliffs and clear waters shaped by ancient tectonic forces.
The Oboke and Koboke Gorges offer a striking landscape best appreciated from the water, where a sightseeing cruise reveals the full scale of their rugged beauty. As the boat moves along the Yoshino River, the steep cliffs and unusual rock formations rise dramatically on either side, creating an immersive and powerful visual experience.
This distinctive terrain was formed through geological processes linked to the Nankai Trough, where an oceanic plate subducts beneath the continental plate. Over time, these forces shaped the mountainous landscape of Shikoku, now visible from the river’s surface as a dynamic interplay of stone and water.
From the boat, sheer rock faces and uniquely contoured formations come into close view, accompanied by detailed explanations from the boatman that deepen the appreciation of the area’s natural history. The clarity of the Yoshino River adds another layer of appeal, its pristine waters reflecting the surrounding cliffs and enhancing the sense of tranquility within this dramatic setting.