Below is the sightseeing information for Kakikake Pass! Located in Kōfu-cho, Hino-gun, Tottori Prefecture, Kakikake Pass is a stunning scenic viewpoint situated in the deep mountains of Mount Daisen (Okudaisen) at an elevation of about 910 m. When you visit, be sure not to miss the view of Mount Daisen and the beech forest, with the highlight being autumn!
When the heat has faded and the mornings and evenings turn a little chilly, Kakikake Pass is blanketed by beautiful autumn foliage like a vast carpet, attracting many visitors.
This article introduces the highlights of Kakikake Pass’s autumn colors, the best season for viewing them, nearby attractions, and access information.
What is Kakikake Pass? When is the Best Season for Autumn Foliage?
Kakikake Pass is located in the southwestern part of Tottori Prefecture, in Kōfu-cho, which lies more inland rather than on the Japan Sea side. In this area, you can enjoy two rounds of autumn foliage—one from mid-October to late October and another around mid-November—thanks to the various tree species.
In addition to autumn, you can also enjoy the fresh greenery during spring and the skiing at Kagari-no-naru Ski Resort. Although it takes about 40 minutes by car from Yonago City, there is hardly any other spot where you can admire the magnificent view of Mount Daisen, known as “Hōki Fuji.”
Unforgettable Scenic Experience at Kakikake Pass Observatory
On Kakikake Pass, which is traversed by Tottori Prefectural Route 45, there is a parking area so you can comfortably enjoy the view.
When you visit Kakikake Pass, you’ll be so captivated by the breathtaking scenery that you may forget to take photos. Many visitors are enchanted by the grandeur of Mount Daisen set against the autumn foliage—a view that is even more majestic in person than in pictures.
A Must-See for SNS Photos! The Beech Tree Tunnel at Kakikake Pass
The roads leading to Kakikake Pass from Sannin-zawa on Mount Daisen and from Kakikake Pass to the Okudaisen Ski Resort area (which will be discussed later in the Mitsukue area) are lined with beech trees on both sides, creating the impression of a “beech tunnel.”
No matter whether you approach from the direction of the urban area of Kōfu or from the opposite direction toward Yonago, you will always pass through a beech tunnel. This creates a spectacular experience as if you are walking under a stunning veil of yellow and red.
Name: Kakikake Tōge
Address: 1531-29 Okawara Kagi, Kōfu-cho, Hino-gun, Tottori Prefecture, Japan
Official/Related Site URL: https://www.town-kofu.jp/kanko/8/1/01/
Also Recommended: Rural Landscape Sightseeing in the Mitsukue Area!
The thatched-roof houses of the Mitsukue area preserve the original scenery of old rural Japan and serve as a fantastic photo spot. Originally discovered by a local photographer, these houses now attract countless visitors from home and abroad who are eager to capture the ultimate shot.
Please note that although photography is allowed, this is a residential area. Be sure to follow the rules and practice respectful photography.
Name: Mitsukue Thatched-Roof Houses
Address: Ōaza Mitsukue, Kōfu-cho, Hino-gun, Tottori Prefecture
Contact (Kōfu-cho Tourism Association): 0859-75-6007
It is recommended to use a rental car to access Kakikake Pass and the Mitsukue thatched-roof houses!
The nearest station to Kakikake Pass is JR Hakubi Line’s Eao Station, but since there is no bus service from there, it is most accessible by car or rental car.
The closest interchange is Mizoguchi IC on the Yonago Expressway, about 16 minutes by car. It takes about 25 minutes from Kōfu IC and approximately 35 minutes from Hanasaka IC. From Yonago Airport, it is accessible in about 1 hour.
♦Access to Mitsukue Thatched-Roof Houses
It takes about 10 minutes via the Daizen Circular Road from Kakikake Pass to the Mitsukue Thatched-Roof Houses. If you drive directly from the Yonago Expressway to the Mitsukue Thatched-Roof Houses, it takes about 15 minutes from Kōfu IC.
In the Mitsukue area, there is a town-operated bus from Eao Station, with 5 round trips on Wednesdays (and 2.5 round trips on other days), allowing sightseeing in the area. Alternatively, you may use the town-operated taxi (phone: 0859-75-3388).
◎ Summary of Kakikake Pass Sightseeing
When the autumn foliage season at Kakikake Pass comes to an end, Mount Daisen dons a snowy white mantle as the harsh winter approaches. Since Kōfu-cho, where Kakikake Pass is located, is designated as a heavy snowfall area, please ensure your car is equipped with studless tires.
But come spring, the snowmelt that nourishes the beech forests will flow once again. Visiting Kakikake Pass will allow you to feel the power of Mount Daisen, which has cycled through the seasons thousands of times.
Before the harsh winter sets in, why not take a trip to Kakikake Pass, where even a small smile awaits you?