Naruko Gorge (鳴子峡) is a picturesque ravine located in the Miyagi Prefecture of Japan. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and is known for its scenic beauty, especially in the autumn season. The gorge is located in the Naruko Onsen area, which is famous for its hot springs and traditional inns. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Naruko Gorge and what makes it such a special place to visit. Geography and Geology Naruko Gorge is situated in the northern part of Miyagi Prefecture, close to the border with Akita Prefecture. It is part of the Naruko River, which is a tributary of the Omono River. The gorge is approximately 2.5 kilometers long and is surrounded by steep cliffs that rise up to 100 meters high. The river runs through the center of the gorge, and there are several walking trails that allow visitors to explore the area. The geology of Naruko Gorge is unique, and the rock formations are a result of volcanic activity that occurred millions of years ago. The area is known for its columnar jointing, which is a geological phenomenon that occurs when lava cools and contracts, causing it to fracture into polygonal columns. The most famous example of this in Naruko Gorge is the “Naruko Columnar Jointing,” which is a designated natural monument. Flora and Fauna Naruko Gorge is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The area is covered in dense forest, and the trees include Japanese beech, maple, oak, and birch. In the autumn season, the leaves change color, creating a beautiful tapestry of red, orange, and yellow. The gorge is also home to a variety of wildlife, including Japanese macaques, deer, and black bears. Birdwatchers will also enjoy visiting the area, as there are several species of birds that are native to the region. Activities and Attractions There are several activities and attractions in Naruko Gorge that are popular with visitors. One of the most popular is hiking, and there are several trails that offer stunning views of the gorge and surrounding mountains. The most famous of these is the “Naruko Gorge Trail,” which is a 3.5-kilometer trail that runs along the riverbank. It is an easy hike and is suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. Another popular activity in Naruko Gorge is fishing. The river is home to several species of fish, including trout and salmon, and visitors can rent fishing gear and try their luck at catching their dinner. The area is also known for its hot springs, and there are several traditional inns and resorts that offer hot spring baths. The most famous of these is the Naruko Onsen, which is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. One of the main attractions in Naruko Gorge is the “Naruko Gorge Trolley,” which is a scenic train that runs along the riverbank. The train runs for approximately 40 minutes and offers stunning views of the gorge and surrounding mountains. There is also a suspension bridge that spans the river and offers visitors a unique perspective of the area. Events and Festivals There are several events and festivals that take place in Naruko Gorge throughout the year. One of the most popular is the “Naruko Gorge Autumn Festival,” which takes place in late October and early November. The festival celebrates the autumn season and features traditional music and dance performances, food stalls, and a fireworks display. The area is also famous for its “Naruko Kokeshi Dolls,” which are traditional wooden dolls that are made by local