Kikuchi Gorge
An ancient beech forest gorge with water so clear it's designated one of Japan's 100 Best Waters. The blue-green stream cuts through primeval hardwood forest barely touched by tourism — swimming holes in summer, flaming foliage in autumn.
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One of Kyushu's finest forest gorges — the bright green moss covering every rock and the crystal-clear water are extraordinary in any season. The circular trail takes 90 minutes and crosses the river several times on stepping stones. In summer the gorge is 5–6°C cooler than Kumamoto city — a genuine escape from the heat.
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