Kikuchi Gorge, Kikuchi

This is an amazing walk! Parking is 200円per car, when we arrived the parking guard offered us an umbrella because it was a bit rainy. Luckily we had our own but the kindness was appreciated! Entrance to the walk is 200円per adult, which I think is a bargain as that seems like so little for the staff, upkeep of the walk, the visitors guide and numerous bathrooms along the walk. Even in the rain, this was a really magical walk. The path is pretty easy to navigate and and there's lots of opportunities to see the raging blue river up close. We weren't able to see many birds, but we did some little frogs, a big toad and red bellied salamanders. I think this walk would be enjoyable in all seasons but we saw lots of momiji trees so I think Autumn would be extra special

Entrance fee is 100¥ and the walking path offers a good view of a few waterfalls as well as the beautiful forest. The place is calm and not too crowded, even though we went on the last weekend of golden week.