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A Hidden Gem: Tsukechi Gorge Near the Historic Nakatsugawa
Tsukechi Gorge is without a doubt one of the most naturally beautiful locations I’ve ever had the opportunity to visit, and is hands down one of the greatest hidden gems in the Nakatsugawa region. I was able to visit the gorge shortly after a fresh layer of snow had fallen, which created a stunning winter landscape. The area also seemed to be an excellent location for bird and animal spotting. From my own experience, I had the unprecedented luck of seeing a wild snow monkey. Sadly, although I was able to follow the monkey’s tracks some ways, I was never able to find it again after it initially saw me and ran away. This animal spotting experience in a way exemplifies the tranquility of the area. During my time walking through the trails surrounding the gorge the only visitors at the time were myself and my guide.
A Scenic Walk Through Tsukechi Gorge’s Hiking Paths
My guide explained to me that Tsukechi Gorge was an excellent location to visit at any time of year. During the Autumn months the area is filled with beautiful leaves in different shades of red, yellow, and orange. During the winter, when I visited Tsukechi Gorge, there was a good chance that you could see the natural landscape blanketed in pure white snow. And although I didn’t spot and cherry blossom trees during my visit, the area is perfect for a relaxing spring time walk. Also, thanks to Tsukechi’s location in the mountains, during Japan’s well known humid summer months Tsukechi Gorge is the ideal place to escape the heat.
Camping and Outdoor Activities Near Nakatsugawa
On my way to Tsukechi Gorge I also had the opportunity to stop by a local camp ground area. Although I wasn’t able to walk down and see them up close, I was able to see a number of cabins and outdoor camping areas from the observation point above ground. My guide informed me that the cabins could be rented for camping trips and that the area was a popular summer camping destination. And, because of the campgrounds proximity to the river, it’s the perfect place to swim and cool off during the excoriating humid Japanese summer.
Personally, I’ve added camping in the Tsukechi Gorge valley to my bucket list. I can’t image how amazing it must be to wake up surrounded by tall mountains, fresh air, and sound of the river outside your window. This is definitely something worth looking into if you have the time while visiting the Nakatsugawa region.
Tsukechi Gorge in Nakatsugawa, and the surrounding area, is a must see location for anyone who plans on visiting Japan.
Access:
Tsukechi Gorge is only accessible by car at the moment with the nearest bus stop being at least an hour away.
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