Yasui Valley
Yasui Valley captivates with its "Niyodo Blue" waters, offering canyoning adventures and serene riverside dining amidst lush nature.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Coolest temperatures and best light
Yasui Valley
Best Time
Coolest temperatures and best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Yasui Valley captivates with its "Niyodo Blue" waters, offering canyoning adventures and serene riverside dining amidst lush nature.
"The "Niyodo Blue" water is truly magical, and the canyoning experience is unforgettable!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Sneakers are best for walking trails and riverbanks. Bring sandals if you plan to dip your feet in the water.
🚗 Prepare for Narrow Roads
Roads can be narrow; drive cautiously and be patient. Security guards help during busy times.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Canyoning Adventure
Yasui Valley
Rappel down waterfalls, slide through natural chutes, and swim in crystal-clear "Niyodo Blue" waters. Guided tours ensure safety and fun.
The "Niyodo Blue" Waters
Yasui River
Witness the breathtaking, transparent emerald green water that gives the valley its famous nickname. Perfect for photos and serene contemplation.
Riverside Dining at Horaisou
Horaisou Restaurant
Enjoy delicious local cuisine, including fragrant soba noodles and grilled sweetfish, with the soothing sound of the river.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the "Niyodo Blue"
Navigating Narrow Roads
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Sneakers are best for walking trails and riverbanks. Bring sandals if you plan to dip your feet in the water.
🚗 Prepare for Narrow Roads
Roads can be narrow; drive cautiously and be patient. Security guards help during busy times.
💧 "Niyodo Blue" is Magical
The water's clarity and color are stunning. It's a must-see natural wonder.
🍽️ Savor Local Flavors
Try the fragrant soba noodles and grilled sweetfish at Horaisou for an authentic taste.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Sneakers are best for walking trails and riverbanks. Bring sandals if you plan to dip your feet in the water.
🚗 Prepare for Narrow Roads
Roads can be narrow; drive cautiously and be patient. Security guards help during busy times.
💧 "Niyodo Blue" is Magical
The water's clarity and color are stunning. It's a must-see natural wonder.
🍽️ Savor Local Flavors
Try the fragrant soba noodles and grilled sweetfish at Horaisou for an authentic taste.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The valley offers incredible photo opportunities, especially with the vibrant "Niyodo Blue" water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking "Niyodo Blue" waters and the serene natural beauty of Yasui Valley. The canyoning tours are a highlight for adventure seekers, while the riverside dining offers delicious local flavors. Some note the narrow access roads and the older accommodations, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a desire to return.
"The view is amazing and the staff is very gentle and kind.
I haven’t slept there, I only ate breakfast and it was so good! Eggs, sausages, Miso soup, rice, coffee and an orange for only 500¥!
I expected it to be more expensive, because of the location.
I recommend having breakfast there! :)"
Martin Dueck
"This was my first time staying at this inn, but I'd love to return and hope it continues for a long time.
This time I stayed in a cabin for one night.
The building itself is not new, but it was a comfortable cabin with plenty of space to park your car, a loft, a refrigerator, a kettle, and a cooking counter.
They gave me freshly washed sheets at check-in, and the futon was very comfortable.
The bath in the main building had a newly renovated changing room and was very clean. I had a luxurious time soaking while listening to the sound of the river.
I spent half a day after arriving and after checking out, enjoying the Niyodo Blue, and had lunch at Houraiso. Both the three-color soba noodles and the sweetfish were delicious.
The manager was also very kind and I'm grateful. This is a wonderful place that I hope will continue for a long time to come, serving as a bridge connecting people with Niyodo Blue."
Yuki
"The road from the national highway is quite narrow, but the sound of the river and the high altitude keep it quite cool, at around 25°C even in midsummer. I didn't really notice it when I came from the Ehime side, but this area is a tea-producing region, with tea fields scattered across the mountain slopes. On the way back, heading towards Sagawa, there were certainly many. The soba noodles, three varieties made with the local specialty tea, were fragrant and delicious. It seems like it will be quite difficult to find successors to farms due to the aging population, but experiencing these local flavors makes me hope they can somehow continue."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Accessing Yasui Valley involves driving on narrow roads, which can be challenging. From Kochi City, take the JR Dosan Line to Niyodogawa Station, then a bus towards Niyodogawa Town. From there, you may need to transfer to another bus or take a taxi to reach the valley. Driving is also an option, but be prepared for tight turns and limited parking.
Yes, the roads leading to Yasui Valley are known to be narrow and winding. During peak season, traffic can be heavy, and passing other vehicles might be difficult.
Once you arrive, walking is the primary way to explore the valley. Sturdy sneakers are recommended for the riverbanks and walking trails.
Parking is available, but it can fill up quickly during busy periods. Some visitors have reported waiting for a parking spot.
Public transport options exist, but they can be complex, often requiring multiple transfers. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is generally no entrance fee to visit Yasui Valley itself. However, activities like canyoning tours will have associated costs.
Yasui Valley is a natural attraction and is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. Specific facilities like restaurants may have their own operating times.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book canyoning tours in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot.
As a natural area, visitors are expected to respect the environment. There are no specific entry restrictions mentioned, but always follow local guidelines.
Yasui Valley can be visited year-round, with each season offering a different charm. Autumn foliage is beautiful, and even rainy days can enhance the mossy greenery.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main activities include canyoning, swimming, hiking along the river, photography, and enjoying the natural scenery.
"Niyodo Blue" refers to the exceptionally clear and vibrant emerald green color of the water in the Niyodo River system, including Yasui Valley.
Swimming is possible, but be cautious of the river stones and currents. Guided canyoning tours provide safety equipment and supervision.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes like sneakers for walking. If you plan to enter the water, bring water shoes or sandals.
Yes, there are walking trails along the river, but they can be rocky. Be prepared for uneven terrain.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Horaisou is a popular riverside restaurant offering local specialties like soba noodles and grilled sweetfish.
The three-color soba noodles and grilled sweetfish are highly recommended. Breakfast is also praised for its value.
Information on specific vegetarian options is limited, but local cuisine often features seasonal vegetables. It's best to inquire directly at the restaurant.
Meals can be moderately priced, with some visitors noting that soba noodles might be on the pricier side, but the overall experience and service are considered worthwhile.
Picnicking is generally allowed in natural areas, but it's important to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly to preserve the environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire valley offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially along the riverbanks where the "Niyodo Blue" water is most prominent.
Morning light can be beautiful, but the vibrant colors of the "Niyodo Blue" water are captivating throughout the day. Consider visiting on a clear day for the best results.
There are no specific mentions of drone usage policies for Yasui Valley. It's advisable to check local regulations or inquire with local authorities before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive valley views. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the water.
While the focus is on the activity, guides may allow for brief photo opportunities. Waterproof camera gear or a secure way to carry your phone is essential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
📸 Nature Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of "Niyodo Blue"
Many visitors express awe at the intensity and purity of the "Niyodo Blue." It's not just a color; it's an experience that immerses you in the tranquility and beauty of nature. The river's clarity allows for a deep connection with the aquatic life and the natural landscape. Whether you're admiring it from the riverbanks or experiencing it up close during a canyoning tour, the "Niyodo Blue" is the defining feature of Yasui Valley.
Adventure Activities: Canyoning in Yasui Valley
Participants often describe the experience as a thrilling way to interact directly with the natural environment. The guides ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure, making it accessible even for those new to canyoning. The combination of adrenaline-pumping activities and the stunning natural beauty of the valley creates a memorable adventure. It's a fantastic way to see the valley from a unique perspective, getting up close and personal with its waterfalls and clear pools.
Booking a canyoning tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as they are quite popular. This activity is a highlight for many visitors and offers a dynamic way to appreciate the raw beauty of Yasui Valley.
Culinary Delights and Local Flavors
Beyond the main dishes, the breakfast at Horaisou is also highlighted for its excellent value, offering a satisfying spread for a modest price. This makes it a great option for starting your day before exploring the valley. The use of local mountain produce in the meals emphasizes the region's natural bounty and culinary traditions.
For those staying in bungalows, the availability of kitchens allows for self-catering, but experiencing the local flavors at Horaisou is a highly recommended part of the Yasui Valley visit.


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