Kanmangafuchi Abyss

Scenic spot · Nikko-shi

Kanmangafuchi Abyss

Scenic spot · Nikko-shi

2

Takumicho, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1415, Japan

Photos

Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Fred Cherrygarden (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Fred Cherrygarden (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Paul Biris/Getty
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Fred Cherrygarden (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by eliauw (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Steven16091984 (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Jaszmina Szendrey (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Jaszmina Szendrey (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Fred Cherrygarden (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Fred Cherrygarden (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Fred Cherrygarden (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Fred Cherrygarden (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Steven16091984 (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Fred Cherrygarden (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by eliauw (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Jaszmina Szendrey (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Fred Cherrygarden (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Fred Cherrygarden (Atlas Obscura User)
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by Oren Rozen/CC BY-SA 4.0
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null
Kanmangafuchi Abyss by null

Highlights

Discover a serene forested volcanic canyon lined with charming "jizo" statues, offering a tranquil riverside walk perfect for nature lovers.  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
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Takumicho, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1415, Japan Get directions

nikko-kankou.org

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Takumicho, Nikko, Tochigi 321-1415, Japan Get directions

+81 288 22 1525
nikko-kankou.org

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Mar 5, 2025

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@atlasobscura

18 Trails That Traverse History

"In the wooded area of Japan’s Kanmangafuchi abyss stands a row of stone Jizō statues. How many? Nobody knows for sure, because apparently each time you count them, you end up with a different number because they routinely disappear. Jizō is one of Japan’s most beloved deities and is regarded as the Bodhisattva who cares for travelers and lost souls and is also the guardian of children. Jizō statues are decorated with red cloth bibs and crocheted caps. This particular group of statues, situated near the city of Nikkō, is called Narabi Jizō (which translates to “Jizō in a line”). There are roughly 70 of them, lined up in front of a wall stretching around 320 feet and overlooking the Daiyagawa River. Due to their apparently ghostly nature and disappearing tricks, they are also called Bake Jizō, or “ghost Jizō.”  The decorated statues are ensconced in the Kanmangafuchi abyss, which was formed around 7,000 years ago when lava flows from an eruption of the nearby Mount Nantai combined with the water of the river. The resulting landscape is extraordinary and the abyss offers a pleasant trail to walk along." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/historical-trails-and-hikes
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@cntraveler

5 Best Day Trips from Tokyo | Condé Nast Traveler

"A gorge formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, the Kanmangafuchi Abyss is a lovely riverside walk that takes in around 70 stone statues of Jizo, a bodhisattva—a Buddhist person who pursues Nirvana and helps other to do so as well. According to legend, every time you count a stone Jizo—the caretaker of wandering souls—you'll arrive at a different number; apparently they have the power to disappear. The site makes for pleasant walking and there's a botanical garden nearby." - Brandon Presser

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-day-trips-from-tokyo
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Omer Hayun

Google
It's a long walk to get there and the Buddha statues with the hats and aprons are not really worth it (especially if you visited Kyoto before where you can see similar statues in many places). We went there because we didn't have enough time to go to the lake and the falls and we finished with the Nikko temples and shrines. The walk itself is nice and there's a beautiful river view at the abyss which is very nice so it's recommended for nature lovers.

PhilosophyPizza

Google
Delightful walking path along a beautiful rushing river much leas busy than other similar destinations. It’s a long walking path with entrances on both ends it seems, we entered one way and reached the end then traced our steps back to the entrance.

Arisa Chuklin

Google
Kanmangafuchi Abyss is a peaceful and slightly eerie trail in Nikko, Japan. The highlight is the line of moss-covered Jizo statues with red aprons. There’s a legend that the number of statues changes every time you count them—we tried and definitely got spooked! We went at dusk and found parking near the entrance (only 3-4 spots). The trail is unpaved and unlit, so it might be tricky for older visitors, but the walk next to the stream was beautiful. The moss and red aprons really pop against the surroundings, making it a photo-worthy spot. Just make sure to go when there’s more light out for the additional photography contrast. Overall, it’s a unique and calming experience. But apart from the ambience, there isn’t much to explore. Worth visiting if you’re in Nikko if you’re into quiet strolls and nature.

Keng Cheong Tan

Google
Serene but slightly sinister alley alongside the river with all the guardian statues meant to protect travelers and young children (souls of). Worth the walk though the residential neighborhood to pay respect and see the statues for yourself.

Noranut Tapaneeyapan

Google
This temple is the branch of Rinnoji temple. It is quite far to walk from Rinnoji temple. A lot of buddhas along the path make here sacredly to visit. Moreover, there is a small waterfall down from Kegon waterfall to fulfill this place.

Esther Aiw

Google
This is my favourite spot in Nikko. So peaceful and beautiful. Walkable from Bus stops 8 and 10 or take the Green Slow Mobility (which is red btw) which drops you right at the Abyss. The frequency for the green slow mobility is limited so it's best to check the schedule in advance. Santenamataro, one stop from the Abyss, is a recommended stop for lunch along the river.

Pasquale Lomonaco

Google
Incredible. I have loved every single step taken on this path. The nature make you at piece with the world. The river is a pleasure to hear. When in Nikko, this is a must do

Nic Banister

Google
Tranquil walk alongside the gorge/abyss and rows of statues on the other side. It is nice but pretty much 10 mins and done. If you keep on walking you hit a sluice gate. If you are passing by then go for it otherwise I wouldn't bother
google avatar

Tim L.

Yelp
Beautiful place! The stream/abyss is lovely -- I'd have liked to climb/hike around but wasn't able to due to a hurt knee at the time. However, what we really liked was the stroll past all the red-hatted statues that line the walking path near the abyss. So charming and cute all 100+ of those little guys. The abyss isn't on the usual walking path in Nikko but is well worth the 30 or so minutes.