Teriha Gorge is a scenic gorge deep in the Okutone area of Minakami, Gunma Prefecture. Located in the upper reaches of a stream that flows into the Tone River system, the gorge is surrounded by dense forests and clear mountain waters.
With its secluded atmosphere and unspoiled natural surroundings, Teriha Gorge is a place where visitors can experience the changing seasons in a peaceful mountain environment. It is one of the representative scenic attractions of Minakami.
The gorge stretches for approximately 9 kilometers. Among its most notable features are 11 waterfalls of various sizes, whose names were given by the famous haiku poet Shūōshi Mizuhara. The waterfalls are scattered along a roughly 5-kilometer section of the gorge, creating a succession of beautiful scenes along the clear mountain stream.
One of the distinctive charms of Teriha Gorge is the literary character of its waterfall names. Shūōshi Mizuhara was deeply impressed by the scenery and gave each waterfall a poetic name inspired by the natural landscape and its mysterious atmosphere.
The 11 waterfalls of Teriha Gorge are Seryū-no-Taki, Iwana-no-Taki, Hakuryū-no-Taki, Yamabiko-no-Taki, Hisui-no-Taki, Mokusei-no-Taki, Tsuzumi-no-Taki, Fudan-no-Taki, Shigure-no-Taki, Konomi-no-Taki, and Higurashi-no-Taki.
Each waterfall has its own distinctive character. Some streams slide gently over exposed rock, while others cascade quietly through the forest. The approximately 5-kilometer stretch from Seryū-no-Taki downstream to Higurashi-no-Taki upstream is particularly known for its concentration of scenic highlights.
Because of its beautiful combination of clear water, waterfalls, and dense forest, Teriha Gorge is sometimes called the “Oirase of the Kanto Region.” Like the famous Oirase Stream in Aomori Prefecture, the gorge offers a harmonious landscape of flowing water, waterfalls, and lush woodland.
The scenery is especially spectacular during the autumn foliage season. Mizuhara is also said to have described the area’s autumn colors as the “best autumn foliage in Japan.”
Red, yellow, and orange leaves contrast beautifully with the white water cascading over the rocks, creating scenery that can resemble a traditional landscape painting.
Around June, the surrounding mountains become covered in vivid fresh green foliage. The combination of clear streams and young leaves creates a refreshing landscape, while the cool mountain air provides a welcome sense of relief in early summer.
The period from early to late October is when Teriha Gorge attracts particularly large numbers of visitors. The entire valley is transformed by brilliant shades of red and yellow, while the waterfalls and clear streams add movement and contrast to the scenery.
The middle to late part of October is generally regarded as the best period for viewing the autumn colors, making it a popular destination for sightseeing and photography.
Because there are no dedicated walking trails along the gorge, Teriha Gorge is primarily enjoyed as a scenic driving route. As you travel along the mountain road, waterfalls and sections of the clear stream appear one after another through the trees.
The drive is particularly popular during the autumn foliage season, when the surrounding mountains are covered in vibrant colors.
There are also no dedicated parking areas or established walking paths around the gorge. Visitors should therefore drive carefully and enjoy the scenery safely from their vehicles.
From the Minakami Interchange on the Kan-Etsu Expressway, follow National Route 291 and turn right at the Oana intersection. Continue along National Route 63 toward the Teriha Gorge area.
The route lies along the road toward the Oze area and is also popular as a scenic mountain drive.
Because Teriha Gorge is located deep in the mountains, it is not accessible by public transportation. Visitors will need to use a private vehicle or rental car.
Teriha Gorge offers a peaceful way to experience the natural beauty of the Okutone mountains. Clear mountain streams, 11 distinctive waterfalls, and changing seasonal scenery create a succession of landscapes that invite visitors to slow down and appreciate the surrounding wilderness.
Autumn is particularly spectacular, when the entire mountain landscape becomes covered in vivid colors and the gorge takes on the atmosphere of a remote wilderness.
For travelers exploring Minakami and northern Gunma by car, Teriha Gorge is a memorable scenic stop. Each season reveals a different side of this beautiful mountain valley, offering a chance to enjoy the quiet beauty of nature away from the bustle of everyday life.