Settsukyo Gorge: A Natural Oasis in Osaka
Discover Settsukyo Gorge: Osaka's hidden gem with stunning natural beauty, hiking trails, and seasonal scenery, perfect for a refreshing escape.
Settsukyo Gorge, located in Takatsuki City, north of Osaka, is a designated Place of Scenic Beauty and one of the Kansai region's top 100 scenic spots. This 37.2-hectare park offers a respite from city life with its diverse natural landscapes. The Akuta River has carved a stunning gorge with unique rock formations, cliffs, and waterfalls. Visitors can explore the gorge via well-maintained hiking trails, suitable for all skill levels. The trails wind past notable rock formations like Meoto-Iwa (coupled rocks) and Hachijo-Iwa (eight tatami mat-sized stone outcroppings). Shirataki Waterfall, a 15-meter cascade, is another highlight. The Momiji-dani valley is particularly stunning in autumn, with vibrant fall foliage. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including around 420 species of plants and various bird species. Settsukyo Gorge is beautiful year-round. Spring brings cherry blossoms, with approximately 3,000 trees blooming in the area. The Settsukyo Gorge Cherry Blossom Festival is held annually in early April. In summer, fireflies dance by the streams. Autumn transforms the landscape with vibrant red and yellow leaves.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes to enjoy the trails safely.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan a picnic by the river.
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit.
- Pack a blanket in spring to sit under the cherry blossoms.
A brief summary to Settsukyo Gorge
- Hara, Takatsuki, Hara, Osaka, 569-1051, JP
- +8172-674-7411
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
From JR Takatsuki Station, take bus number 51 towards Tsukawaki. The bus ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Get off at the Tsukawaki bus stop, which is about a 10-minute walk from Sakura Square, the southern entrance to Settsukyo Park. The bus fare is approximately ¥220. Alternatively, bus number 54 goes to Kaminokuchi, near the northern entrance, but it runs less frequently.
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Walking
From the Settsukyo Gorge bus stop, follow the signs towards the gorge entrance. The walk is about 5-10 minutes through a small residential area. There are no entrance fees or mandatory access fees.
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Driving
From central Osaka, take Route 170 towards Takatsuki. Then, follow signs for Hara. Parking is available near Settsukyo Gorge, with fees typically around ¥500. Parking is available at both the Shimo-no-kuchi and Kami-no-kuchi entrances. Note that parking may be limited during peak seasons.
Attractions Nearby to Settsukyo Gorge
Landmarks nearby to Settsukyo Gorge
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Aigawa Dam
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Kusunoki Park
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Minoh Park
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Ichibaike Park
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Red Torii Gate
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Osaka International Airport (Itami Airport)
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Hozukyō Station
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Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
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Arashiyama Park Observation Deck
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Arashiyama Park Kameyama Area
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Arashiyama Park Nakanoshima Area
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Togetsukyo Bridge
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Okochi Sanso Garden
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Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
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Tenryu-ji