Dorokyo Gorge located in Yoshino-Kumano National Park is where you will find the infamous “Logging River Runners” of Kitayama Village. However, they've switched to offering guided tours for anyone interested in a thrilling experience unlike any other. The skills of the logging river runners are something that has been preserved for over 600 years. Being that Kitayama Village is so isolated, before there were roads and vehicles for transportation, the villagers relied on the river as a means of transporting logs.
Experience the calm of being carried along smooth river currents followed by the rush and excitement that comes from being at the mercy of those white-water rapids. No need to worry though, each log raft is checked for safety before any trip, and all riders are required to wear life jackets. There will also be a quick orientation before the activity starts, this way you are as prepared for your experience as you can be.
Reservations for Kitayama Log Rafting are currently closed as COVID had a big impact on active tours. However, they will open back up beginning April 1st, 2023.
Getting there can be a bit tricky as the village itself is pretty isolated. The website outlines some directions that you will need ahead of time. This is especially true if you are planning on relying on public transportation which is very limited in availability.
The Log rafting event has two separate times that you can reserve, 9:00~10:20 for 10:40 departure and 11:30~12:40 for 13:00 departure. Be sure to plan ahead and be on time with your arrival.
Some things to keep in mind before reserving a spot:
Only guests between the ages of 10 and 75 are eligible for this tour, pregnant women are not able to join the tour and those under the influence of alcohol are not accepted.
