Oboke and Koboke

There's one big reason to visit: the rapids rushing through the gorge below. There are observation platforms on the highway and near the train stations if you're content to gaze from a distance, but more daring types will venture down onto the Yoshino River for a sightseeing cruise ¥2000 for a one-hour loop, and more adventurous types yet will try their hand at white-water rafting in the class 4 rapids. The rapids are Japan's biggest and most exciting, with amazing rock formations and crystal clear waters.

If you survive the experience without developing acute hydrophobia, both Oboke and Koboke have onsen hot springs offering more bubbling water to soak in.