By MOOK Scenic Spots Family / Compiled Report
When Okayama Prefecture comes to mind, aside from the lingering memory of delicious fruits, it is actually a place abundant in natural beauty. Throughout the region, there are historic buildings that date back to the Edo period, along with uniquely picturesque landscapes. If you want to indulge in the intoxicating beauty of fiery red maples and explore deeper, more meaningful maple-viewing spots, follow this guide on a short autumn trip.
Flaming Okutsu Gorge: A Valley Ablaze in Crimson
Nestled within the mountainous area surrounding northern Okayama Prefecture, centered around “Kokufu Town,” and near “Okutsu Onsen” – one of the three major hot spring areas known as “Mimasaka’s Three Hot Springs” – this location features a river that has eroded granite pillars, creating a magnificent riverscape. Scattered waterfalls and large rocks accentuate the unique natural ambiance. The scenery changes dramatically with the seasons, making it a favorite among tourists. In autumn, in particular, the mountains are ablaze with red leaves that burn with fiery passion, offering an enchanting sight.
The annual “Okutsu Onsen Maple Festival,” held from early to mid-November, allows travelers to stroll along the Yoshii River promenade to admire the maple colors up close, experience the magical interplay of light and leaves at night, or even stay overnight to soak in the famed “Beauty’s Hot Spring” of Okutsu Onsen. It is said that the spring water is rich in skin-whitening minerals, leaving your skin fair and smooth after just one soak. Loved since ancient times by writers and artists alike, this is undoubtedly a hot spring spot that women will adore.
[Okutsu Gorge]
Transportation: Take the Chugoku Railway Northern Bus from JR Tottori Station for 50 minutes and get off at “Ko-u-Q,” then walk 10 minutes.
Bonus: Dams and Water Jets Add Drama to Maple Romance
Soaking in a hot spring while enjoying autumn scenery is a must-do for many travelers. That’s why you can’t miss “Yunohara Onsen,” where you can relax in nature and take things slow. Its famous “Sand Bath” is set against a dramatic dam backdrop with red maples, and the open-air hot spring area enclosed by rocks gives the illusion of a secluded mountain retreat. The sand, heated naturally by underground springs, lets you enjoy a therapeutic sand bath simply by lying in it. There are different types: “Beauty’s Bath,” “Fertility’s Bath,” and “Longevity’s Bath.” It’s said that soaking in these baths can make your wishes come true.
[Yunohara Onsen]
Take the Chugoku Railway bus from JR Okayama Station, transfer at “Katsuyama Bus Center,” and get off at “Yunohara Onsen.” Walk 5 minutes.
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