A splendid collaboration of dynamic valleys and autumn leaves

I want to avoid the crowds and enjoy viewing the autumn leaves at a little-known spot. In such a case, why not take a trip to Soyakyo in Kawabe, Akita City, which is about 50 minutes by car from the center of Akita City and is called ''Akita's back parlor''?

Satani Gorge, located upstream of the clear Iwami River, is a scenic spot with gigantic cliffs that extend for 300 meters across the river. It is said to have been created during the Wado period (708-715) when the Uyashinai swamp upstream of the river burst open.Masumi Sugae, a folklorist from the Edo period, visited this area in 1811 and left a picture of Saya Gorge in his travelogue ''Kate no Oyumi.'' In 1952, it was selected as one of the ''Thirty Sightseeing Spots in Akita Prefecture'' by the Akita Kai Shimposha.

You can enjoy the scenery in each season, such as the fresh greenery of spring, the deep greenery of summer, the red leaves of autumn, and the snowy scenery of winter, but autumn is definitely recommended. You can enjoy a spectacular scenery that looks like a painting, created by the colorful autumn leaves and the mountain stream. The best time to see autumn leaves is usually from late October to early November. The riverside promenade is paved and easy to walk, and if you take a leisurely stroll while listening to the sound of the rushing water and the chirping of wild birds, you will be able to forget about the hustle and bustle of everyday life and be refreshed by the beauty of nature.

Further upstream from Aya Gorge is Iwami Gorge, where you can visit scenic spots such as Funose Falls, Tonobuchi, and Funasaku. You can also enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves here, so be sure to visit here.