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Kankakei Ropeway: A Scenic Ride Through Japan's Natural Beauty

Experience breathtaking views of Kankakei Gorge, one of Japan's most scenic destinations, via an unforgettable ropeway ride.

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Ascend through the heart of Kankakei Gorge on Shodoshima Island via the Kankakei Ropeway, offering breathtaking views of one of Japan's most stunning landscapes. This aerial journey provides a unique perspective on the gorge's dramatic rock formations and seasonal beauty, connecting Koun-tei Station to the mountain summit in just five minutes.

A brief summary to Kankakei Ropeway

Local tips

  • Check the seasonal hours of operation, as they vary throughout the year.
  • Consider a one-way ropeway ride and hike down one of the trails to fully experience the gorge.
  • Visit during the autumn months for the most vibrant display of fall colors.
  • Purchase tickets in advance to avoid potential queues, especially during peak seasons.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the hiking trails at the summit.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Tonosho Port or Kusakabe Port, take the Shodoshima Olive Bus to the Koun-tei bus stop. From Koun-tei, it is a short walk to the Kankakei Ropeway Koun-tei Station. Bus fare is approximately ¥300 or less. Note that the Kankake Line bus is seasonal, so confirm operation before planning your trip.

  • Car

    From any of Shodoshima's main ports (Tonosho, Ikeda, Kusakabe, Sakate, or Fukuda), drive to the Koun-tei Station at the base of Kankakei Gorge. Parking is available at Koun-tei Station free of charge. Be aware that roads can be winding and narrow in some areas. Car rentals are available near Tonosho Port.

  • Ropeway

    Upon arrival at Koun-tei Station, purchase a round-trip ticket for the Kankakei Ropeway. Round trip fare is ¥2340 for adults and ¥1170 for children. One-way tickets are also available. The ropeway departs every 6-12 minutes, with a 5-minute ride to the summit.

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Discover more about Kankakei Ropeway

The Kankakei Ropeway offers a spectacular five-minute aerial journey through Kankakei Gorge, renowned as one of Japan's three most beautiful gorges. Located on Shodoshima Island in the Seto Inland Sea, the ropeway provides access to stunning panoramic views of a landscape sculpted by volcanic activity and erosion over millions of years. The gorge itself is a designated Place of Scenic Beauty, featuring unique rock formations, cliffs, and vibrant foliage that changes with the seasons. From the ropeway, passengers can witness cherry blossoms in spring, lush greenery in summer, colorful maple leaves in autumn, and snow-dusted peaks in winter. The contrast between the mountain vistas and the distant Seto Inland Sea creates a breathtaking experience. At the summit, observation platforms offer even more expansive views. Visitors can also explore hiking trails that wind through the gorge, providing opportunities to see the unique rock formations and diverse plant life up close. The summit area includes a restaurant where you can savor local specialties like olive beef croquette burgers and a gift shop offering Shodoshima's signature products, such as somen noodles, olive oil, and soy sauce. The Kankakei Ropeway, operated by Shōdoshima Sōgō Kaihatsu, opened in 1963 and covers a distance of 917 meters with a vertical interval of 312 meters. The gondolas have large glass windows, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the surrounding scenery.

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