Doro-kyo

The wide ocean views of the coastal journey to Shingu give way to gorges and mountainsides of a deep mossy green when you pass through the tunnel five minutes north of the city. Up the Kumano River, the walls of the steep-sided Doro-kyo rise above you. Farther up, sheer 150-foot cliffs tower over the Kumano-gawa. Tours of the gorge (¥4,800) depart from Shingu Station and can be booked through the Shingu Tourist Association Information Center. A bus goes as far as Shiko, and then a flat-bottomed, fan-driven boat travels upriver to Doro-hatcho and back again. Outside seats on the boats are the best. You can book a trip at the information center at Shingu Station.