Umenoki Suspension Bridge and Falls

The beauty of Kumamoto's Gokanosho region

By Mandy Bartok

Community writer

A view of the suspension bridge at Umenoki Todoro Park

The suspension bridge crosses a foliage-filled gorge

The foliage near the bridge in autumn is spectacular

Early November is the best time to visit the area to see the autumn leaves

This smaller bridge leads back to the Umenoki Waterfall

The path to the waterfall isn't too steep

Despite it being a weekend, the woods were fairly deserted

The Umenoki Waterfall was once known by locals as "phantom waterfall", due to its remote location

The mountains of Gokanosho have long remained one of Kumamoto Prefecture's most inaccessible areas. They sheltered remnants of the Heike Clan as they fled from the victorious Genji Clan after the Battle of Dan-no-ura in 1185 and the high peaks and winding roads still manage to keep out most of the outside world. For those who venture here, however, a land of waterfalls, suspension bridges and hidden villages awaits. In autumn, a one-way system is instituted on the narrow mountain roads to accommodate the large amounts of leaf peepers who come to view the area's stunning fall foliage.

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By Mandy Bartok

Community writer

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Yui Yamaguchi 10 years ago

Nice tracking walk! How long were you there?

Mandy Bartok Photographer 10 years ago

You can park right at the bridge and from the other end of the bridge, the waterfall is only a 15-20 minute hike. But we spent all day in the region. The roads are so so narrow it takes a long time to get around! It's the best place in Kumamoto for fall foliage though.

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