Matsusaka　Kahada　Gorge

The upper reaches of the Kushida River, which flows along the Median Tectonic Line, boasts the beauty of its valley as the Kahikikyo Prefectural Natural Park. The area from Akaoke to Miyamae is called "Kahagi-Nagatoro," and river rafting is recommended to experience the beauty of this area. The horseshoe-shaped mountain ranges surrounding Kahakikyo can all be climbed, but Takamiyama (Mt. Takami), Miminesan (Mt. Mibune), Kochikadake (Mt. Kochikadake), and Shirainoyama (Mt. Shirainoyama), located to the north, are especially popular one-day climbing spots. The views from the top of the mountains are also wonderful. Historically, the area is located in the middle of the Wakayama Highway (Ise Kaido) that connects Ise and Yamato, and has been a place where the cultures of Ise and Yamato intersected since ancient times. A leisurely bicycle ride along the old highway will give you a sense of the history and lifestyle of the area.