4. Iwaigawa (Iwate)

Photographer’s comments: The Genbikei Gorge is a dramatic ravine two kilometers long with some stunning scenery. The gorge is famous for its “flying” dango (dumplings). Customers put their money in a basket and give a signal, and tea and dumplings are sent across a wire from a shop on the other side of the gorge.

River data: From its source in Mt. Kurikoma, the river flows through southern Iwate Prefecture before merging with the Kitakamigawa. The Genbikei Gorge is a famous scenic spot in the middle reaches of the river formed by volcanic rock produced by an ancient eruption of Mt. Kurikoma and gradually worn away by the river into remarkable shapes. Length: 38 km.