Yabakei

Yabakei is a deep gorge along the Yamakuni River that cuts through a frozen lava plateau and can be traversed over 30 kilometers. Vertical walls of volcanic rock frame the route and form natural caves and narrow passages above the river course.

The river began cutting through volcanic rock more than 2.5 million years ago, shaping the present clefts and walls. The area was later settled by Buddhist hermits who meditated in the rock caves.

The river winds through sharp rock walls whose shapes resemble mountain goats and other animals. Hikers encounter small shrines and temples tucked into rock alcoves along the trails, visited by pilgrims throughout the year.

Access is available through several entry points reachable by public transport from Nakatsu. Sturdy footwear is advisable for the uneven paths along the rock walls and through forested sections.

One viewpoint shows eight different rock clusters at once, including jagged peaks often used by birds as nesting sites. Visitors also discover abandoned stone bridges from the Edo period that once connected monastic paths.