Autumn Foliage in Ofunato

#autumnfoliage #naturewalk #vantagepoint #bestofbothworlds #mountainview #oceanview #okubogorge #mountmoto

The title may make it seem as if I'll be picking up several spots within Ofunato and share pictures of Autumn foilage during this time, and although I can definitely imagine how wonderful the article will be if I actually did that, my body was at it's limit after going to 2 spots...

So if you've taken a peek at my pictures on Instagram or Facebook, you may have guessed where I'm getting at, but do read along for a tad bit longer if you're interested in checking out the spots! Fortunately, the two spots I'll be introducing are relatively close to each other and both are wonderful spots to visit even outside the Autumn season.

So without further ado, the first spot I would like to introduce is...

Okubo Gorge (大窪渓谷 = "Okubo Keikoku") located in the mountains of Ofunato-shi, Yoshihama-cho (Google Maps Link)

The actual gorge with high rocky walls is further up the mountain, but here is just the right location to catch the autumn colors with a mix of green along with the soothing sound of the river.

The peacefulness of the atmosphere and since this location is distant from town, helps you unplug from society and concentrate on yourself and to listen to nature.

The picture (left) was taken downstream from the location indicated. Additionally, this was takien in early October, which is when when the colors start turning red in town. As such, if you are looking to catch autumn colors here, I advise going in late Oct. OR early-mid Nov. I will warn that the foliage in the mountain do change fast.

One of the main reasons why the map link is set here is due to the easy-to-find parking.

You will find a a sharp curve, and the sky opens up as less trees crowd the side. The patch of grass on the right is where you can park, as per picture.

After parking the car, walk downhill towards the sharp curve. You will find a path leading you to the gorge. (the path is not paved but easiy to find..) Hop over a small stream and you'll find a path going downhill leading you to the riverside.

(5-10min from car)

Aside from the spot above, there is a spot further up the mountain that is another great place to visit.

After going up-hill for about 10 - 15 min by car, you will come across a red sign on the left which is where you will also find an openning on the side of the road for parking.

(Note: that the parking spot here is rather small and will allow for only 2 cars to stop.)

But other than that, the view is nothing but breathtaking. The shallow yet wide river create a openning for fresh breeze of air and a 360 degree view of the nature in Ofunato. (GOOGLE MAP)

The red sign mentioned above warns hunters not to utilize traps in the area. Although this may sound alarming, deer hunting in Japan are maintained through strict rules. Areas such as these also restricts usage of hunting rifles hence you are safe. If you feel even slightly worried, I will advise you to wear bright colored clothing when you visit.

Going onto the second spot..!

Mt. Moto ( 元山 = "Moto Yama") located in Ofunato-shi, Yoshihama-cho (Google Maps Link)

Further uphill is where you'll find the next recommended vantage point in the Yoshihama area. There are multiple curves but no turns, so the road to this point is straight forward.

But I will note that the entrance can be confusing since the pavement will change to gravel and the road will also become narrow. Once you continue there will be a few points to stop, but I urge you to continue untill the end!

At the end, the road will open up and so will the view, leading you up to one of the best sights from the top of a mountain.

Not the best of weather here, but on a clear day you have the view that helps you look out to the pacific ocean. You can also see (slight right from the center) the Yoshihama Port in contrast to the Pacific Ocean and the mountain side!!

A clear day like the picture below!!

(I left the car in the picture here to help you get an idea of how vast the field here is. I swear its on purpose!!)

You may have already noticed.. but you will need a car to get here. Getting here by foot is not impossible, since nothing is impossible, but I will note that the road is narrow with a lot of curves making blind points for cars as they will generally not expect hikers on the road, leading to serious accidents. Additionally, there are no alternate maintained hiking trail that lead you up to this point.

As long as you have a car your safe! Well, kind of... as long as you're safe. Because although the road is paved and well maintained, we are talking about the road in the mountain. Animals can pop from the side, fallen trees or boulders can be left on the road after a bad weather, and last but not least, you'll want be cautious of approching cars since some parts of the road will just barely fit two cars side by side. If you see an on-coming car, be sure to keep an eye out for a widened road in order for you or the opposing car to slide to the side and allow the approaching car to pass by.

If you have any questions/comments/advice please feel free to reach out using the comments section below or reaching out to directly through the social media accounts or email!!

Until next time!!