Geibi Gorge is a fantastical canyon, one of Japan’s 100 Scenic Spots (Nihon Hyakkei). It is a spot where you can enjoy breathtaking views on a traditional boat ride.
Spring here begins with fresh green foliage, followed by wisteria and cherry blossoms, letting you savor the colors and character of the season.
Why not visit Geibi Gorge in the mild spring weather?
Along with the cherry blossom forecast, we’ll introduce sightseeing, access, and event information.
Geibi Gorge in Ichinoseki: Spring Scenery
On the boat ride, surrounded by fresh spring greenery, you can feel nature coming alive in spring — from birdsong to river fish leaping on the water’s surface.
At the boat ride’s departure point stands a solitary cherry tree that has become a symbol of this season.
The cherry blossoms reflected on the water’s surface are a magnificent sight.
Come May, wisteria blossoms wrap the gorge in a gentle shade of purple.
When Will the Cherry Blossoms at Geibi Gorge Bloom? Typical Best-Viewing Times and Latest Updates
In a typical year, the blossoms open in mid-April and reach their best viewing period from late April to early May.
The cherry blossoms in spring 2021 are expected to bloom 10 days earlier than usual.
Cherry Blossom Forecast 2020
Also, the wisteria flowers are typically at their best around mid-May. This year they also look likely to bloom earlier than usual.
By the way, the cherry trees at BELLINO HOTEL, said to be the earliest to bloom (?) in Ichinoseki, typically begin blooming around April 1st and reach full bloom by mid-April.
Cherry trees line the front of the hotel and are popular for wedding location photos as well.
[Held Every Year] The Toryumon Festival at the Geibi Gorge Boat Ride
Every year, an event called the “Toryumon Festival” is held around Golden Week (April 29 – May 5).
“Toryumon” (Dragon Gate) is a proverb referring to overcoming a difficult barrier on the way to success — especially a barrier to career advancement. It is also associated with the legend of a carp climbing a waterfall, which is the origin of the custom of flying carp streamers (koinobori). Following this tradition, the Toryumon Festival is held with the aim of nurturing in children a spirit of “challenge” and a determination “not to lose.”
Elementary school children riding the boat receive a free ema (wooden wishing plaque) — the first 10 each day.
You can write your wish on it and dedicate it.
(During the festival period, ema are also sold for ¥300 each, and can be freely dedicated at Senryutan Pool.)
Sightseeing and Access Information for Geibi Gorge: About the Boat Ride Service
[Boat Ride Information]
Fare: Adults ¥1,800, Elementary school students ¥900, Infants ¥200
Operation: The ride takes 90 minutes; boats depart from 8:30 AM, about once an hour
[Access]
◆By Bus◆
Iwate Kenko Bus, Geibi-kei Line, “Ichinoseki Station” → “Geibi Keikoku-guchi” About 40 minutes
◆By Train◆
JR Ofunato Line, “Ichinoseki Station” → “Geibikei Station” About 30 minutes
◆By Car◆
About 25 minutes from BELLINO HOTEL ICHINOSEKI
