[Kochi, Niyodo River] Where to see the Niyodo Blue, when, how to get there and recommended activities
Shikoku
of
Ehime
from
Kochi
The miraculously clear stream that flows through
Niyodo River
.
The clear, pure blue flow of the river
Niyodo Blue
It is affectionately known as ".
This time, Explanation of the Niyodo River and Niyodo Blue and, When, where and how to see Niyodo Blue or, Recommended activities to enjoy in the surrounding area We will introduce you to:
If you are planning a trip to Shikoku or Kochi, be sure to check it out!
What is Niyodo Blue?
The source of the water is Mount Ishizuchi, the highest peak in western Japan. First-class river Niyodo River .
Kochi Prefecture Speaking of rivers, the "Kanagawa River" is located in the west and is said to be "Japan's last clean river" because no large-scale dams have been built on its main stream. Shimanto River " is famous, The Niyodo River, which flows through the center of Kochi Prefecture, Miraculous clear stream " It is called "the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism" and is implemented by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. In the "National First-Class River Water Quality Survey," Topped Japan eight times A beautiful river selected as is.
Expressing the beauty of the Niyodo River Niyodo Blue The term "Niyodo River" was first coined by a photographer who made the Niyodo River basin his life's work, and the water is made using underground water from the Niyodo River system. Japanese sake "Niyodo Blue" The photo is also used as a label.
The river is so clear that when I take a photo
Boats and other objects appear to be floating in the air
That too!
At the Niyodo River, you can fully enjoy the beauty of the river.
SUP
or
Canoeing and Kayaking Experience
is popular.
Why is Niyodo Blue blue?
There are several theories as to why the Niyodo River looks blue, but the most common is
- The river flows quickly and the water temperature is low, Impurities such as algae and plankton are less likely to accumulate .
- Therefore, it has high transparency, Highly reflects the blue light contained in sunlight .
- Light blue-green The abundance of "green schist" on the riverbed makes the blue color stand out even more. It has become.
It is said that...
Born from abundant nature,
Miraculous blueness
"
of,
River Activities
Why not try experiencing it for yourself?
When can you see Niyodo Blue?
Niyodo Blue is basically All year round, regardless of the season You can see .
Early spring (around March) to summer By the time The green of the trees , autumn for The vermilion and yellow of autumn leaves However, it beautifully accentuates the blue water surface.
especially summer is not only a visual treat, You can actually swim in the beautiful river, Playing in the river and diving There are also places where you can This is the recommended time for sightseeing.
Also, winter Because the water becomes clearer, You can enjoy a purer Niyodo blue. Yo!
Recommended spots to see Niyodo Blue / Locations and Directions
Carefully selected by the Activity Japan editorial department,
Recommended spots to see Niyodo Blue
Introducing
I will!
Refer to the map,
How to read place names and locations
,
directions
Please also check out the following.
Niyodo Blue Recommended Spots Map
Nikobuchi
"
Nikobuchi
” (
Map: ①
) is located on the Edakawa River, a tributary of the Niyodo River.
A popular spot on social media to view the Niyodo Blue
.
You can enjoy a fantastical world of blue that changes depending on the time of day and the angle of the light depending on the season.
It takes about 30-40 minutes on foot from the nearest bus stop. So, Accessible by car or taxi Probably ( Approximately 70 minutes by car from Kochi city ).
Nikobuchi is
A very sacred place where the incarnation of the water god is said to reside
is.
Not only is it forbidden to enter the water, but eating, drinking, and smoking are also prohibited.
So, when you visit, please observe good manners and enjoy the exhibits quietly.
Yasui Valley
One of the best spots in the prefecture to see autumn leaves But " Yasui Valley " ( Map: ② ) In addition to Niyodo Blue, The impressive waterfall You can also enjoy.
Basically, I go there by car. But the road is quite narrow, We recommend using a taxi for those who are not confident in their driving skills. ( Approximately 70 minutes by car from Kochi city ).
In the summer when the water level is stable,
A riverside spot where you can experience the overwhelming Niyodo blue
Also very popular as
.
Not only can you swim in the beautiful, clear blue world, but you can also enjoy the water with a snorkel and underwater goggles.
You can also see a lot of fish
.
Because it is a place with many insects such as horseflies,
It's a good idea to take insect repellent measures
is.
"
Suishobuchi
"or"
Shoryu Falls
","
Hiryu Falls
" and other famous places
Yasui Valley is a valley with many
The only lodging in the valley: Houraisou
Why not consider staying overnight at a hotel like this?
Nakatsu Valley
Weaving through the valley Promenades are being developed And, " Pilgrimage to the Seven Lucky Gods "or Popular for walking and hiking A spectacular spot of Nakatsu Valley " ( Map: ③ ).
Compared to other spots Easy to get to by bus However, It's convenient to use a car or taxi is( Approximately 80 minutes by car from Kochi city ).
" Autumn Leaves Waterfall "," Uryu Falls "," Ryugubuchi Falls There are many waterfalls with their own distinctive features, such as The area is also known for its dynamic rocks and waterfalls, which enhance the deep blue of the Niyodo Blue.
A great spot to play in the river in summer
Also popular as
There are a wide variety of swimming areas, from deep areas to shallow areas where children can play safely.
Be careful of fast-flowing water around waterfalls and deep areas.
From March to November, you can fully experience the Niyodo Blue by jumping into the waterfall basin or climbing down the cliff using a rope. Canyoning Tour We also recommend participating in .
After playing in the river, we went to a nearby drive-in and enjoyed the local specialty " Hikijibashi Konjac "or Grilled salted river fish At the entrance to the valley, Nakatsu Valley Yunomori "in Daytime Onsen We also recommend soaking in the springs.
The canyoning tour takes you deep into the Nakatsu Valley. You'll use ropes to descend into areas that are normally off-limits to people, and swim through the valley to clear the water. The beauty of the valley and the clarity of the water are breathtaking! Let's go on an adventure! All you need to bring is your swimsuit and towel. We will rent all your warm gear (wetsuits, thick socks, gloves). 3
Activities to enjoy Niyodo Blue
Participate in activities and Feel the Niyodo Blue with your whole body Would you like to see it?
Next,
Around the Niyodo River
Here are some activities you can enjoy.
The Niyodo River boasts exceptional transparency,
An experience that feels like you're floating in the air
You can
Yo!
Enjoy the Niyodo Blue on a SUP
Featured activities, SUP So, let's enjoy Niyodo Blue!
SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) is a popular activity around the Niyodo River.
It is carried out in a place with a gentle current.
So,
Safe for first-timers and beginners
You can participate by doing so.
Enjoy SUP at the top of the Niyodo River, where the water flows in from Yasui Valley, where the Niyodo Blue is the most beautiful. Take a walk on the water with your guide through the vast Niyodo Blue, which has a miraculous transparency. We will give you a photo of your experience as a gift! ~Experience flow~ [
This plan does not support English.
《Boats floating in the air!? A soothing SUP experience with miraculously clear water》 ~ Approx. 2 hours (Meet-Disband) / Guided tour for multiple groups ~ ◆ Highly recommended! 3 points ◆ ① Visit "Niyodo Blue" at least once, the world's best water quality in Japan! The mysterious blue color known as Niyodo Blue is a must-see! You can even observe fish swimming in the water so clear you can see the river bottom. ② Floating in the air
This plan does not support English.
■Recommended♪￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣・SUP experience on the "miraculously clear stream" Niyodo River! ・You can take home the photo data you take♪・A spectacular activity, beginners are welcome. ・Held all year round! Wetsuits are available for rental except during the summer period from July 1st to September 30th. Please be sure to add the option outside of the summer period. (An additional 1,000 yen per suit) Winter
This plan does not support English.
・This plan is a special plan available only outside of peak seasons (spring, autumn, and winter). ・A quick 1-hour plan for beginners or those who don't have much time. ・Unlike the regular tour plan, this tour is held in the lower reaches of the Niyodo River, close to Kochi city. ・Wetsuits (optional application) available for rental. ・A paradise woven with light and blue. SUP on the crystal clear Niyodo River! ・The Niyodo blue is particularly
This plan does not support English.
This is a tributary of the miraculously pure Niyodo River, which has been voted the best in Japan many times for its water quality. This is limited to one group! [SUP experience] After the SUP experience, you will have free time, so you can enjoy playing on the SUP or playing in the river. Chairs and tables are also provided, so you can relax on a chair while enjoying the scenery! You can also enjoy a meal or tea time.
This plan does not support English.
★ SUP experience, day camping, and straw-grilled bonito experience on the miraculously pure Niyodo River, which has the best water quality in Japan (if bonito is not available, other fish can be substituted) ★ Experience SUP on the Niyodo River and relax in a chair or hammock after playing. Even if you are a beginner at SUP, you will receive a lecture on land and a guide will lead you on the river. ★ We will arrange a straw-grilling experience according to your schedule.
Enjoy the Niyodo Blue by canoe or kayak
Canoeing and Kayaking teeth, Activities that bring your line of sight closer to the water . Experience Niyodo Blue up close can.
The bottom of the boat is transparent Clear Kayak Then you don't have to go into the cold river, You can see the beautiful blue underwater world and fish swimming. Yo!
Small children can also enjoy So, We also recommend participation by families and three generations of parents and children. is.
You can enjoy crystal kayaking at the place where the water flows into from Yasui Valley, the uppermost reaches of the Niyodo River, where the Niyodo Blue is the most beautiful. Become one with the water in a transparent crystal kayak! Take a walk on the water with a guide through the vast Niyodo Blue, which has a "miraculous transparency"♪ Take photos of the experience.
This plan does not support English.
《Boats floating in the air!? A soothing kayaking experience with miraculous transparency》 ~ Approximately 2 hours (Meeting time - Disbanding) / Guided tour for multiple groups ~ ◆ Highly recommended! 3 points ◆ ① You must visit "Niyodo Blue" once, the world's best water quality in Japan! The mysterious blue color known as Niyodo Blue is a must-see! You can even observe fish swimming in the water so clear you can see the river bottom. ② Floating in the air
This plan does not support English.
《Boats floating in the air!? A canoeing experience where you will be soothed by the miraculous transparency》 ~ Approximately 2 hours (Meeting time - Disbanding) / Guided tour for multiple groups ~ ◆ Highly recommended! 3 points ◆ ① You must visit "Niyodo Blue" once, the world's best water quality in Japan! The mysterious blue color known as Niyodo Blue is a must-see! You can even observe fish swimming in the water so clear that you can see the river bottom. ② Floating in the air
This plan does not support English.
■Recommended♪￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣・Kayaking experience on the "miraculously clear stream" Niyodo River! ・You can take home the photo data you take♪・Why not see the scenery that can only be seen from a kayak? ・Each kayak is for two people. (※We do not use clear kayaks) We offer this at a discount for those who do not need a clear kayak. ・Summer period from 7/1
This plan does not support English.
The best water quality in Japan! A canoe tour on the upper reaches of the Niyodo River! Limited to small groups ◎ Even beginners can enjoy this tour, and you will practice paddling and what to do if you fall off the boat with a local guide who has ample experience on the Niyodo River. Please join us with peace of mind. Why not try a full-fledged canoe tour with guide support?
Enjoy Canadian canoeing at the top of the Niyodo River, where the water flows in from Yasui Valley, where the Niyodo Blue is the most beautiful. Take a walk on the water with your guide through the vast Niyodo Blue, which has a miraculous transparency. We will give you a free photo of your experience! ~ Body
If you want to have fun on the Niyodo River, try packrafting! Ride an inflatable kayak by yourself and clear the rapids! Before the tour, you'll receive a lesson on how to paddle. You'll feel the exhilaration of paddling through the rapids on your own. Sometimes, you might even get pushed over by the waves and have a thrilling accident, like flipping your boat over!
Enjoy the Niyodo Blue on a guided sightseeing tour
Tour the most famous spots for "Niyodo Blue" with a knowledgeable guide Guided tour Also recommended.
Limited to 1 group per day A local guide will arrange transportation and other details, and will decide the places to visit and schedule based on your requests.
There are craft beer, tea sweets cafes, hot springs, and more in the surrounding area. There are many other attractions besides "Niyodo Blue" .
While having your memories photographed, A comprehensive and luxurious tour Let's enjoy it.
This plan does not support English.
We will guide you to the famous spots known as "Niyodo Blue"! ★We only accept one group per day, so we will create a schedule that suits your physical strength and requests. ★We will also show you local gourmet food (craft beer, tea sweets cafes, etc.). We will consult with you first to decide the schedule for the day!
Other activities to enjoy Niyodo Blue
In addition to the standard activities introduced above, there are also other activities such as banana boats at the mouth of the Niyodo River. Towing Activities In addition, thrilling Suspension Bridge & Zip Line , Tent sauna experience You can enjoy a wide range of activities.
In the surrounding area Paragliding experience And in the city Cycling Tours , Bicycle rental plan There are also other things, Check out the activities in Kochi and Ino and enjoy sightseeing Please do so.
・Operated by a tea farmer!? This activity facility is open even in the rain. ・An exhilarating experience in the uppermost reaches of the "Miraculously Clear Niyodo River"! ・An aerial walk over the Iwaya River Valley, an almost untouched valley on the border between Kochi and Ehime prefectures! ・Japan's first! Scream-inducing suspension bridge! A terrifying suspension bridge with a changing footing appears about 30 meters above the valley! ・Once you've safely crossed, enjoy an exhilarating jump.
"Niyodo Blue Marine Activity Experience" ★ [Book here for up to 4 people]
This is a 2-hour unlimited ride course on banana boats (10 people or 5 people) and towed tubes at the mouth of the Niyodo River, Japan's cleanest river. You can rent SUPs and try flyboarding. It's not held in the ocean, so you won't get sticky with the tide! The water quality of the pure Niyodo River is clean. Our slopes are like a private beach, so you won't have to worry about being seen by others. Groups
"Niyodo Blue Marine Activity Experience" ★ [Booking for 5 or more people here]
This is a 2-hour unlimited ride course on banana boats (10 people or 5 people) and various towed tubes at the mouth of the Niyodo River, Japan's cleanest river. It's not held in the ocean, so you won't get sticky with the tide! The water quality of the pure Niyodo River is clean. Our slopes are like a private beach, so you won't have to worry about being seen by others. From 2023, we will limit the number of groups to one per day.
Our slopes are like a private beach, so you won't have to worry about being seen by others. This luxurious course at the mouth of the Niyodo River, Japan's cleanest river, offers unlimited banana boat and tow tube rides all day, as well as a riverside BBQ for lunch! You can enjoy 4 hours of fun between 10am and 3pm. The start time can be chosen at your convenience! The BBQ includes 200g of grilled meat per person and seafood.
This plan does not support English.
・Tent sauna rental plan. This is a tent sauna rental plan. We will help you set it up. Please feel free to use it after receiving instructions. As long as it is set up and enjoyed by individuals, there are no particular restrictions under the Health Center Jurisdiction Act. ・Swimsuits are OK even outside of summer (spring, autumn, and winter). ・Private rental on the banks of the Niyodo River, the purest stream in Japan.
Popular activities to enjoy Niyodo Blue
Finally, based on the number of reservations made by Activity Japan,
Popular activities ranking for Niyodo Blue
We will introduce the following.
Please use this as a reference when choosing a plan!
- 4.9
- (67 reviews and experiences)
You can enjoy crystal kayaking at the place where the water flows into from Yasui Valley, the uppermost reaches of the Niyodo River, where the Niyodo Blue is the most beautiful. Become one with the water in a transparent crystal kayak! Take a walk on the water with a guide through the vast Niyodo Blue, which has a "miraculous transparency"♪ Take photos of the experience.
- 4.6
- (63 reviews and experiences)
《Boats floating in the air!? A soothing kayaking experience with miraculous transparency》 ~ Approximately 2 hours (Meeting time - Disbanding) / Guided tour for multiple groups ~ ◆ Highly recommended! 3 points ◆ ① You must visit "Niyodo Blue" once, the world's best water quality in Japan! The mysterious blue color known as Niyodo Blue is a must-see! You can even observe fish swimming in the water so clear you can see the river bottom. ② Floating in the air
- 5.0
- (7 reviews and experiences)
We will guide you to the famous spots known as "Niyodo Blue"! ★We only accept one group per day, so we will create a schedule that suits your physical strength and requests. ★We will also show you local gourmet food (craft beer, tea sweets cafes, etc.). We will consult with you first to decide the schedule for the day!
- 4.9
- (28 reviews and experiences)
Enjoy SUP at the top of the Niyodo River, where the water flows in from Yasui Valley, where the Niyodo Blue is the most beautiful. Take a walk on the water with your guide through the vast Niyodo Blue, which has a miraculous transparency. We will give you a photo of your experience as a gift! ~Experience flow~ [
- 5.0
- (1 review/experience)
・This plan is a special plan available only outside of peak seasons (spring, autumn, and winter). ・A quick 1-hour plan for beginners or those who don't have much time. ・Unlike the regular tour plan, this tour is held in the lower reaches of the Niyodo River, close to Kochi city. ・Wetsuits (optional application) available for rental. ・A paradise woven with light and blue. SUP on the crystal clear Niyodo River! ・The Niyodo blue is particularly
- 5.0
- (1 review/experience)
・Operated by a tea farmer!? This activity facility is open even in the rain. ・An exhilarating experience in the uppermost reaches of the "Miraculously Clear Niyodo River"! ・An aerial walk over the Iwaya River Valley, an almost untouched valley on the border between Kochi and Ehime prefectures! ・Japan's first! Scream-inducing suspension bridge! A terrifying suspension bridge with a changing footing appears about 30 meters above the valley! ・Once you've safely crossed, enjoy an exhilarating jump.
【☆数量限定☆】＼winter季お得な1,300circleOFF／Niyodo Blueが最も綺麗な季節！カナディアンカヌー宙船(そらふね）体験／※スイーツはつきません
＼数量限定☆winter季割！／《Niyodo Blueが最も綺麗な季節到来！カヌー体験》～約2時間 (集合～解散)／複数組でofご案内～◆イチ押し！3つofポイント◆①数量限定！今だけofwinter季割プラン1名様1300circleOFF！通常よりお得に体験できるwinter季限定プランis.定員に達し次第終了となります.ご予約はお早めに！② 1年で
- 5.0
- (3 reviews and experiences)
《Boats floating in the air!? A canoeing experience where you will be soothed by the miraculous transparency》 ~ Approximately 2 hours (Meeting time - Disbanding) / Guided tour for multiple groups ~ ◆ Highly recommended! 3 points ◆ ① You must visit "Niyodo Blue" once, the world's best water quality in Japan! The mysterious blue color known as Niyodo Blue is a must-see! You can even observe fish swimming in the water so clear that you can see the river bottom. ② Floating in the air
- 4.9
- (7 reviews and experiences)
■Recommended♪￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣・Kayaking experience on the "miraculously clear stream" Niyodo River! ・You can take home the photo data you take♪・Why not see the scenery that can only be seen from a kayak? ・Each kayak is for two people. (※We do not use clear kayaks) We offer this at a discount for those who do not need a clear kayak. ・Summer period from 7/1
- 4.9
- (6 reviews and experiences)
《Boats floating in the air!? A soothing SUP experience with miraculously clear water》 ~ Approx. 2 hours (Meet-Disband) / Guided tour for multiple groups ~ ◆ Highly recommended! 3 points ◆ ① Visit "Niyodo Blue" at least once, the world's best water quality in Japan! The mysterious blue color known as Niyodo Blue is a must-see! You can even observe fish swimming in the water so clear you can see the river bottom. ② Floating in the air
Enjoy Niyodo Blue!
This time, Kochi The " Niyodo Blue " I did.
Around the Niyodo River There are many activities available to fully enjoy the beauty of the river.
If you are visiting Kochi, be sure to check it out. The miraculous Niyodo Blue Not only can you enjoy looking at the Experience it more closely through activities Please give it a try.
*The content of this article is current as of October 2025.
Featured image provided by:
photoAC
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