Kiyotsu Gorge / Tunnel of Light

清津峡／Tunnel of Light

Experience the breathtaking scenery of one of Japan's three largest gorges, showcased in the Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennial artwork!

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Kiyotsu Gorge stands among Japan's three great gorges, alongside Kurobe Gorge and Osugi Gorge. The towering cliffs creating a V-shaped grand canyon over the river are designated as a national scenic beauty and natural monument.
The stunning columnar-jointed rock surfaces and the dynamic landscapes along the Kiyotsu River are truly remarkable, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. Moreover, the entire tunnel was transformed into an artwork by the Chinese architectural firm Ma Yansong/MAD Architects during the 2018 Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale.
Architectural spaces and artistic atmospheres inspired by the "five elements" of nature (wood, earth, metal, fire, and water) were crafted at various points inside the tunnel and at the entrance facility.
The entrance facility offers footbaths, merchandise sales, and a café (closed during winter).
Before planning your visit, please check the official website and X (formerly Twitter) for local conditions.

Area: Yuzawa and Uonuma Area

Category: Nature and Scenery Nature and Scenery

General Information

Address	新潟県十日町市小出癸2119-2 Google Map
Directions	●By train: Take an express bus bound for Morimiyanohara from Echigo-Yuzawa Station on the Joetsu Shinkansen Line (approx. 25 min.) → get off at Kiyotsukyo Iriguchi bus stop → approx. 30 min. on foot to the entrance of Kiyotsu Gorge ●By car: From the Kanetsu Expressway "Shiozawa Ishiuchi IC," drive to Route 353, Approx. 25 min.
Car Park	Regular cars: about 155 cars Large parking lot: 7 cars Free of charge.
Opening Times	●Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel Reception Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm (tunnel closes at 5:00 pm) Winter (December to February): 9:00 am - 3:30 pm (closing time 4:00 pm) No regular closing days (during winter, the tunnel may be temporarily closed due to snowfall or snow accumulation) ●Entrance Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm 1st floor: Souvenirs, Cafe 2nd floor: free footbath (*Open from April to November)
Prices	Adults (high school students and older): 1,000 yen Children (elementary and junior high school students): 400 yen Preschool children: free of charge Free for holders of the Physical Disability Certificate, Rehabilitation Certificate, or Mental Disability Health and Welfare Certificate. (Please present your certificate or a copy of the certificate) Group rates apply to groups of 20 or more people. (Please see "Group Use" for details.)
Notes	To reduce congestion, admission to the gorge is limited during peak season by advance reservation.