Nikko · Near the Nikko stations
Kanmangafuchi Abyss
How to get there and what to see · facts checked 2026-10-24
Photo: 663highland・CC BY-SA 4.0
A small gorge where the Daiya River runs between rocks formed by lava. A row of stone Jizo statues is said to change in number every time you count them.
- Nearest station
- About 8 minutes by bus, then a 20-minute walk
What to see
- Bake-jizo ("ghost Jizo"): about 70 stone statues on the south bank, said to come out differently each time you count.
- Lava and river: scenery made by Mt. Nantai's lava and the clear Daiya River.
- The "Kanman" Sanskrit character: carved on a huge boulder on the far bank. The statue that once stood on it was washed away in a flood in 1902.
Seasons
- Fresh green in spring, colour in autumn and snow-capped statues in winter. Cherry trees bloom in the adjoining Ganman Park in spring.
History
Lava from Mt. Nantai formed this scenic spot, long said to be a holy place where the deity Fudo Myoo appears. The sound of the river was heard as Fudo's mantra, and the monk Kokai named it after its last phrase, "Kanman". The poet Matsuo Basho stopped here in 1689.
Getting there
About 8 minutes by bus from JR Nikko or Tobu-Nikko Station toward Chuzenji Onsen, then about a 20-minute walk from the "Yasukawacho" stop.
Address：Takumicho, Nikko, Tochigi
Before you go
Mountain leeches are often reported here on rainy days and the day after, especially from June to October. The official pages list no opening hours or fee.
Station and shrine area
Tap a red pin to open that sight's page.
Nearby sights
← Nikko guide: trains from Tokyo
Sources
Hours, prices and history come from the official websites and public tourism pages listed here. They can change, so check the official site before you go.
- 日光市観光協会（憾満ヶ淵）（checked 2026-10-24）
- 日光山輪王寺（憾満ヶ淵）（checked 2026-10-24）
Map data：© OpenStreetMap contributors