Jakuji River Yamaguchi Prefecture｜Complete Guide to the Charm of a Clear Stream Selected as One of Japan’s 100 Select Waters and Surrounding Tourism
The Jakuji River, which flows through Nishiki Town in Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is one of the “100 Select Waters of Japan” selected by the Ministry of the Environment in 1985. Originating from the middle slopes of Jakuji Mountain (elevation 1,337m), the highest peak in Yamaguchi Prefecture, and surrounded by cedar and beech forests over 500 years old, this crystalline valley stream has long been cherished by local residents. This article provides detailed information about the charm of the Jakuji River, surrounding tourist spots, and access methods.
About Jakuji River｜A Clear Stream Spanning Three Prefectures: Yamaguchi, Shimane, and Hiroshima
The Jakuji River originates from Jakuji Mountain, located on the border between Yamaguchi and Shimane prefectures, and forms the uppermost section of the Usa River, a tributary of the Nishiki River. The Jakuji Mountain area spans a vast mountain range encompassing Yamaguchi, Shimane, and Hiroshima prefectures, where the rich natural environment of the Chugoku Mountains remains preserved.
As the Jakuji River flows down while carving through granite bedrock, it forms dozens of waterfalls. In particular, the five famous waterfalls collectively called “Goryū no Taki” (Five Dragon Falls) are selected for Japan’s 100 Waterfalls. The surrounding area is known as Jaku Gorge, a scenic spot where visitors can enjoy beautiful canyon vistas throughout the four seasons.
The Origin of the Name Jakuji River
The name Jakuji River has an interesting legend. According to the tale, a large serpent once tormented villagers in this area, but a high priest calling himself “Jaku Bozu” appeared and defeated the serpent. To honor the merits of Jaku Bozu, local people are said to have named the river “Jaku.”
This legend, combined with the mysterious atmosphere created by the steep terrain and deep forests surrounding the Jakuji River, continues to be passed down as part of the region’s culture today.
Why It Was Selected for Japan’s 100 Select Waters｜The Secret of Jakuji River’s Water Quality
The background to Jakuji River’s selection as one of Japan’s 100 Select Waters by the Ministry of the Environment in 1985 lies in its outstanding water quality. In 2015, it also participated in the “100 Select Waters Popularity Election” in the “Scenic Views Category,” drawing nationwide attention.
Abundant Water Volume and Clear Water Quality
The cedar and beech forests with ages exceeding 500 years that spread across the middle slopes of Jakuji Mountain function as natural reservoirs. These primeval forests slowly permeate rainwater into the ground, filtering it over long periods of time, which produces the clear water of the Jakuji River.
The Jakuji River, which boasts abundant water volume, has long been used for wasabi cultivation. Wasabi is an extremely sensitive plant regarding water quality and requires clear, pure water that maintains a constant temperature. The fact that the Jakuji River’s water is suitable for wasabi cultivation proves the high quality of its water.
Use as Drinking Water by Local Residents
The water of the Jakuji River is also used as drinking water locally. However, Japan’s 100 Select Waters selected by the Ministry of the Environment do not necessarily guarantee that the water is suitable for drinking. If you plan to actually drink the water, it is recommended to confirm with the relevant local government office, such as the Nishiki Comprehensive Branch Office Community Promotion Division of Iwakuni City.
Even in modern times, the Jakuji River is carefully preserved as a clear water source that local residents can use in their daily lives.
Highlights of Jaku Gorge｜Five Dragon Falls and Canyon Beauty
Jaku Gorge, formed by the Jakuji River, is one of Yamaguchi Prefecture’s representative scenic spots. The gorge, carved through granite bedrock, is dotted with waterfalls of various sizes, and the “Five Dragon Falls” are particularly worth seeing.
Five Dragon Falls｜Japan’s 100 Waterfalls
Five Dragon Falls is the collective name for five cascades with “dragon” names and is also selected for Japan’s 100 Waterfalls. From downstream to upstream, they are named “Tōryū no Taki,” “Hakuryū no Taki,” “Ryūmon no Taki,” “Shōryū no Taki,” and “Ryūbi no Taki,” each showing different characteristics.
Since a walking trail has been developed, visitors can enjoy waterfall viewing relatively easily. Along the path from one waterfall to another, you will be enveloped by the babbling of the stream and forest fragrances, and can breathe in plenty of negative ions.
Scenery Throughout the Four Seasons
Jaku Gorge offers beautiful scenery throughout the year.
Spring: In the season of fresh greenery, the young leaves of beeches and cedars turn a vibrant green, and the waterfalls’ power increases with snowmelt water.
Summer: The gorge surrounded by deep green is cool and perfect as a summer retreat. The babbling of the clear stream makes you forget the heat.
Autumn: Jaku Gorge, where autumn leaves can be enjoyed through the end of November, is known as a famous spot for maple leaf viewing. The contrast between trees dyed red and yellow and the waterfalls is spectacular.
Winter: The snow-covered gorge is enveloped in silence, and the ice waterfalls created by frozen cascades display mystical beauty.
Jakuji Mountain｜Climbing Yamaguchi Prefecture’s Highest Peak
Jakuji Mountain, the source of the Jakuji River, is Yamaguchi Prefecture’s highest peak at an elevation of 1,337 meters and is also selected as one of the Chugoku 100 Famous Mountains. This mountain, which straddles Yamaguchi Prefecture and Yoshika Town in Shimane Prefecture, is also popular with hiking enthusiasts.
Climbing Routes and Highlights
The climbing route of Jakuji Mountain was developed following the 1963 National Sports Festival of Japan, when the torch was lit at the summit. Today, the hiking trail is well-maintained, and the mountain is known as relatively easy to climb.
A beech forest, said to be among the largest in the Chugoku Mountains, spreads across the mountain, and the scenery is especially beautiful during the new green and autumn foliage seasons. From the summit, you can overlook the mountains of the Chugoku range, and on clear days, you can sometimes see all the way to the Sea of Japan.
Combination with Inu Modori Gorge
Along with Jaku Gorge, “Inu Modori Gorge” is a popular scenic spot. This is also located at the foot of Jakuji Mountain and features the charm of steep rocky terrain and clear streams. By combining a visit to Jaku Gorge with Inu Modori Gorge, you can have a more fulfilling nature experience.
Nearby Spots｜Places to Visit Along with Jakuji River Tourism
Various tourist spots where you can feel nature and history are scattered around the Jakuji River area.
Giant Cedar Trees at Usa Hachiman Shrine
Usa Hachiman Shrine, located in the Usa district of Nishiki Town, Iwakuni City, has a group of giant cedar trees hundreds of years old. The giant trees standing in the shrine precincts exude an overwhelming presence and are also known as a power spot. They can be said to be a symbol of the abundant forest nurtured by the clear waters of the Jakuji River.
Kintai Bridge and Iwakuni Castle
Kintai Bridge, a representative tourist destination in Iwakuni City, is one of Japan’s three most famous bridges spanning the Nishiki River, into which the Jakuji River flows. A wooden bridge with five beautiful arches, it creates a landscape representing Iwakuni together with Iwakuni Castle looming behind it.
Located about one hour by car from the Jakuji River, it is popular as a sightseeing route combining nature and historical culture.
Hot Spring Lodging
There are several hot spring inns with open-air baths near the Jakuji River. Some small-scale facilities that limit guests to 8 groups per night feature all rooms with private open-air baths and 24-hour hot spring water directly from the source. Combined with seasonal kaiseki cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients, a luxurious stay is possible where you can fully enjoy the nature of the Jakuji River.
Access Information｜How to Get to Jakuji River
Car access is most convenient for reaching the Jakuji River. For public transportation, you would need to use a bus from JR Iwakuni Station, but since buses are infrequent, it is recommended to check the schedule in advance.
Access by Car
- From Hiroshima area: About 40 minutes via National Route 187 from Muika-Ichi IC on the Chugoku Expressway
- From Yamaguchi area: About 40 minutes via National Route 187 from Muika-Ichi IC on the Chugoku Expressway
- From Iwakuni city center: Head north on National Route 187 for about 1 hour
A parking lot is provided at Jaku Gorge, from which you can walk the trails to view Five Dragon Falls and other sights.
Access by Public Transportation
Buses operate from JR Iwakuni Station toward Nishiki Town, but service is infrequent, so considering a taxi is recommended. Contacting the Nishiki Comprehensive Branch Office Community Promotion Division of Iwakuni City (phone: 0827-72-2110) will provide you with the latest access information.
Precautions for Visiting and Recommended Attire
When visiting the Jakuji River or Jaku Gorge, please note the following points.
Attire and Belongings
- Comfortable walking shoes: While the trails are well-maintained, waterfall viewing involves some ups and downs. Non-slip trekking shoes are recommended.
- Seasonal clothing: Since this is a mountainous area, temperatures are lower than in flat areas. Especially in spring and autumn, prepare warm clothing.
- Rain gear: Since weather can change suddenly, rainwear is reassuring.
- Drinking water: Since vending machines are scarce, bring beverages with you.
Safety Precautions
- Caution during flooding: Water volume increases after heavy rain or during snowmelt periods, which can make the trails dangerous.
- Wildlife: Creatures such as bears and wild boars inhabit the area. Carry noise-making items like bells or radios.
- Mobile phone reception: Cell phone signals are weak in mountainous areas.
Conservation Activities and Community Efforts for Jakuji River
To preserve the clear waters of Jakuji River, selected as one of Japan’s 100 Select Waters, various conservation activities are being conducted in the region.
Regular cleaning activities, water quality surveys, and forest conservation are implemented by Iwakuni City and local residents, with ongoing efforts to pass on this beautiful natural environment to future generations. Traditional water uses such as wasabi cultivation are also being maintained in sustainable forms.
Visitors can also contribute to the conservation of this precious natural environment by following basic manners, such as taking garbage home and refraining from collecting plants and animals.
Food Culture Around Jakuji River｜Flavors Nurtured by Clear Streams
The clear waters of the Jakuji River have a major influence on the food culture of surrounding areas.
Wasabi
As mentioned previously, wasabi cultivation using Jakuji River water takes place. Wasabi grown in pure, clear water has rich flavor and is popular as a local specialty product. It can be purchased at roadside stations and souvenir shops.
River Fish Cuisine
In the Jakuji River and surrounding clear streams, sweetfish and mountain trout inhabit the waters. Local restaurants and family-run inns offer dishes using these river fish, such as salt-grilled or soy-stewed preparations.
Mountain Vegetables and Local Produce
In the Jakuji River area, surrounded by abundant forests, mountain vegetables are available in spring, and various vegetables can be harvested from summer through autumn. Accommodations and restaurants that emphasize local consumption offer seasonal kaiseki cuisine made with fresh seasonal ingredients.
Conclusion｜Experience the Charm of Jakuji River
The Jakuji River in Nishiki Town, Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, possesses many attractions as a clear stream selected as one of Japan’s 100 Select Waters and as a scenic spot featuring Five Dragon Falls from Japan’s 100 Waterfalls.
Originating from the middle slopes of Jakuji Mountain, where beech forests over 500 years old spread, and boasting abundant water volume and clear water quality, the Jakuji River has supported the lives of local people through wasabi cultivation and drinking water. At nearby Jaku Gorge, visitors can enjoy beautiful canyon vistas throughout the four seasons, with many tourists visiting especially during the autumn foliage season.
When combined with climbing Jakuji Mountain, Yamaguchi Prefecture’s highest peak, you can have an even more fulfilling nature experience. By also visiting nearby tourist spots such as the giant cedar trees at Usa Hachiman Shrine and Kintai Bridge, you can deeply experience Iwakuni City’s nature and culture.
Clear water that nurtures abundant nature and the efforts of local people to continue protecting it—visiting the Jakuji River will give you renewed appreciation for the importance of Japan’s beautiful natural environment. By all means, visit this land of select waters.
