Ochiai Village

This community is located in the heart of the Higashi-Iya Valley; a beautiful hamlet built into the mountainside. The homes here were constructed during the middle of the Edo period (circa.1700), up until the Showa period (circa 1930). It is unknown when the first settlers arrived here, but there are many legends and folklore of the Heike clan and frontier settlers making their homes in Ochiai. Villagers live at an elevation of 390 meters on a steep hillside, and the village itself was formed by stacking stones to make walls. There is an impressive and ancient air to this mountain hamlet and a natural beauty you simply can't encounter anywhere else.

Designated in 2005 as a national preserved heritage site.

Address	Ochiai, Higashi-Iya, Miyoshi City
Access	Get off at Ikawa-Ikeda IC→Take the National route 32 bound for Kochi→Take the Prefectural road 45→Take the Prefectural road 32→Take the National route 439 bound for Mt.Tsurugi→Ochiai-Shuraku（Journey time is approx.1 hour and 20 minutes by car.） By bus - Take Shikoku Kotsu Bus bound for Kubo from JR Oboke Stn.→Get off at Ochiai-bashi Bus Stop Book your taxi plan for visiting Ochiai and Oku-Iya through the link below.
URL	https://widgets.bokun.io/online-sales/95f901e2-0ac3-482d-a1d3-91b0d086d865/experience/651293?lang=en_US

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Oboke Gorge Sightseeing Cruise

Marvel at the ever-changing beauty of curious rock formations and clear streams, shaped over 100 million years. A leisurely cruise through the Oboke and Koboke gorges lets you soak in the grandeur of untouched nature.

From the boat gliding gently along the emerald-green Yoshino River, you’ll have close-up views of towering cliffs, trees swaying in the river breeze, and the sparkling flow of water. Don’t miss the chance to experience the dynamic natural beauty of this remarkable gorge.

※ Cruise duration: approx. 30 minutes. Boarding and disembarking at the same location.

【Dining: Oboke Gorge Mannaka Restaurant】
Set in a spectacular location overlooking the Yoshino River, this restaurant offers local cuisine made with fresh regional ingredients, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the gorge.

Favorites include salt-grilled river fish, Iya soba noodles, and the original local specialty “Hidaru Ramen.” After your boat cruise, savor the flavors of the region while gazing at the gorge’s seasonal beauty.

【Souvenirs】
The on-site shop features a wide variety of regional specialties, including sake from Tokushima, locally grown tea, and sweets handmade at local confectioneries. You’ll also find carefully selected specialties from across Shikoku—perfect keepsakes to remember your trip.

【Stay: Oboke Gorge Mannaka Onsen Inn】
Just a 3-minute walk from the boat landing, this tranquil hot spring inn is surrounded by nature. Relax in the soothing waters of its high-quality hot spring, unwind from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and enjoy a truly restful stay.

Koboke Viewpoint

A scenic lookout offering sweeping views of Koboke’s natural beauty. From here, take in the dramatic rock faces of Koboke Gorge, the emerald-green Yoshino River below, and the lush mountains rising all around. Just five minutes from National Route 32, it’s an easy stop on a drive or sightseeing route. Trains gliding past and rafting boats cutting through the river add a touch of movement, making this a favourite spot for photos.

Sightseeing Spots

Nature

All seasons

Nagoro Scarecrow Village (Kakashi no Sato)

You can spot over 350 scarecrows in this deep mountain village. One woman, Ayano Tsukimi, handmade all of them and creatively placed them around the area: in the fields working, waiting at bus stops, dancing local dances, etc. She welcomes visitors to walk around the village and enter the old school to see a glimpse of the past.

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