Nikko is a beautiful town that offers so much to visitors, but we wanted to get away from the crowds for a bit. So we headed to the Kanmangafuchi Abyss to enjoy a quiet stroll. Don’t let the ominous name throw you off, it’s a fantastic walk through a very old walking trail.

The Kanmangafuchi Abyss is tucked away from the main road of Nikko and is a bit off the beaten path. There are no signs for it and one would have to randomly wander through the neighborhood to an offshoot area to find it. Fortunately, getting to the abyss is quite easy. From the Shinkyo Bridge just head west along the Daiya River till a small road splits off downhill along the side of the river. Follow it across the bridge and continue through the small neighborhood till the the road ends at Kanman Park where there is finally there is a sign for the Kanmangafuchi Abyss. Kanman Park also has a giant playground structure that’s very cute and is in the shape of fish.

Down a dirt path past the park is a gate where the Kanmangafuchi Abyss starts. There’s even a small shrine at the beginning.

The abyss itself was formed by a lava flow from the nearby Mount Nantai. The river now travels through the flow and creates many beautifully eroded rocks along the path.

The path travels several hundred meters and is lined by over 70 Jizo statues that overlook the river. Some of these statues are in good shape while others are just a pile of rubble. Even if just a pile of rocks, each Jizo still has its red knit cap and kerchief on.

There’s even the remnants of an old mill next to the water. Along the way there were many beautiful spots such as a small waterfall and a large tree growing from a large rock jutting out over the river.

We spent about 30 minutes walking the Kanmangafuchi Abyss while enjoying the serenity of the sound of the river and being surrounded by nature. It was a lovely break from the busy day.

Google Maps Link: Kanmangafuchi Abyss