4 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kuzuryu – Enjoy Beautiful Natural Scenery and the Great Outdoors!

Kuzuryu, located in Ono City, Fukui Prefecture, is an area where you can fully enjoy stunning natural scenery and rich, untouched nature. With a dramatic river that winds through gorges like a dragon, breathtaking seasonal landscapes, and a vast dam lake, it’s the perfect destination for outdoor life enthusiasts.
There are plenty of places where you can see, touch, create, and learn. Here, we introduce recommended tourist spots in Kuzuryu where you can immerse yourself in its pristine nature.

1. Kuzuryu Gorge – Enjoy a Breathtaking Natural Landscape Created by Nature

Kuzuryu Gorge is a ravine located in the upper stream of the Kuzuryu River, stretching from the Katsuhara area to the Izumi area in Ono City. Formed over the years by the erosion of granodiorite from Mount Arashimadake by the powerful Kuzuryu River, it is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular sightseeing destination.
Located within Okuetsu Kogen Prefectural Natural Park, the area attracts visitors year-round. National Route 158 runs alongside the gorge, making it a perfect scenic drive route. The meandering river, winding like a dragon, offers varied and picturesque views at every turn.
There are numerous tourist spots including Butsuhara Dam, Butsugozen Falls, Uodome Falls, Torigakabe, and Hōzenkabe—ensuring you’ll never run out of places to explore. The lush green of early summer and the vibrant colors of autumn make this a must-visit destination when traveling to the Kuzuryu area.

2. Kuzuryu Onsen "Heisei no Yu"

Kuzuryu Onsen “Heisei no Yu” is a day-use hot spring facility located downstream from the scenic Kuzuryu Gorge. The alkaline simple hot spring water is known for helping with fatigue recovery, neuralgia, and poor circulation—and is also reputed to be great for the skin.
The open-air bath, surrounded by nature, offers a relaxing experience where you can gaze at the mountains while soaking in 100% natural spring water—perfect for recovery after hiking or trekking.
Visitors can also stay at Hotel Flairl Izumi or nearby cottages. It's a popular choice for travelers who want to unwind while enjoying the scenic beauty and hot springs of Kuzuryu. Nestled quietly in a forest rich in greenery, the lodging is ideal for forgetting the hustle and bustle and fully embracing nature. There are many ways to enjoy your visit depending on your travel style and preferences.

3. Kuzuryu National Recreation Area – Immerse Yourself in Forest Bathing and Nature

This facility allows visitors to stay overnight in the heart of nature while touring Kuzuryu. Surrounded by forests of beech and mizunara trees, it has been selected as one of the “Top 100 Forest Bathing Spots.”
Overlooking Mount Arashimadake and close to the flowing Kuzuryu River, it’s a mountain retreat popular among tourists. The large area offers outdoor activities such as tennis, gateball, mountain stream fishing, and more—making it a perfect base for exploring the region.
You can also stay at the Ono City-operated “Park Hotel Kuzuryu” or enjoy riverside activities and barbecues at the auto-camping site. From spring cherry blossoms to the soothing minus ions of forest and river in early summer, and the vivid autumn foliage, it’s a destination where you can enjoy nature in all seasons.

4. Kuzuryu Lake – One of Japan’s Largest Rockfill Dams

While the scenic Kuzuryu Gorge draws many visitors, why not also explore the Kuzuryu Dam and Kuzuryu Lake—the source of this beauty?
Kuzuryu Lake (Kuzuryu Dam) is one of the largest rockfill dams in Japan. Built using a massive number of piled rocks, the scale of the lake created is comparable to Lake Towada. The attached exhibit hall explains the dam's role and current operations, and visitors can even watch videos about its construction.
A notable sightseeing spot here is the “Yume no Kakehashi” (Dream Bridge), also known as Hakogase Bridge—originally built as a test model for the famous Seto Ohashi Bridge. Many tourists are unaware of this connection.
In spring, cherry blossoms including Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura, and Yaezakura bloom around the lake, creating a stunning contrast of vibrant greenery and the lake’s deep blue—making it one of the best seasons to visit.

◎ Summary of tourist spots in the Kuzuryu area

From grand natural landscapes to historical relics from ancient and Heian periods, the Kuzuryu area is packed with attractions that offer awe and inspiration. It’s an excellent destination where nature, history, and culture come together.
Whether you’re after a peaceful retreat or an active outdoor adventure, the abundant nature of Kuzuryu offers something for everyone. Be sure to visit and experience it for yourself!