ABOUT
About this spot
Kiyotsu Gorge, in Tokamachi City, Niigata Prefecture, is one of Japan's leading scenic spots, designated a national Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument. The dynamic columnar joints, with huge rock walls rising steeply, are breathtakingly powerful. For the 2018 Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale, the entire tunnel was renovated as the art work "Tunnel of Light" by MAD Architects, led by Ma Yansong, and reborn as a space where nature and contemporary art merge. The biggest highlight is the Panorama Station at the deepest part of the tunnel. The scenery outside is reflected on the water covering the entire floor, and the "water mirror" view, where the tunnel's round silhouette and the gorge become one, has drawn great attention on social media. It also shows entirely different faces through the seasons: fresh spring greenery, the cool clear stream of summer, vivid autumn foliage, and the silent snowy landscape of winter. Throughout the tunnel are features that stimulate the five senses, such as a submarine-like toilet and exhibits using reflective mirrors. It is a once-in-a-lifetime scenic spot, perfect for trips with friends, couple dates, and solo trips to forget everyday life and refresh.
Last updated March 27, 2026