Canyoning Tours
Close to Tokyo and Osaka
OUR CANYONING STORY
You might be able to tell from our company name what we are passionate about canyoning! We were the first company in Japan to start canyoning tours way back in 1998 and have been pioneering the industry ever since.
If you haven't tried canyoning yet, Japan is an amazing location to get into this adventure sport; crystal clear water, native forests, amazing views at every turn, and world class canyons. We have bases close to Tokyo; Minakami, Okutama, Kusatsu and close to Osaka, Kyoto; Kiho
If you have already sampled the adrenaline rush of canyoning, then you are sure to be delighted by the many courses Canyons has to offer. With over 40 different canyoning courses we can cater for nervous first timers to experienced adrenaline junkies. A truly unique way to experience Japan's nature. If you need help deciding on a tour then read "choosing a canyoning course" or contact us for advice.
We also use a canyoning rating system with 6 levels. Levels 1-3 courses can be experienced by first time canyoners but for level 4-6 we require you to have canyoning experience. Please enquire if you have an experienced group and would like to try a higher level canyon.
CANYONING TOURS
CHOOSE YOUR COURSE
WHAT IS CANYONING?
Canyoning is the sport of negotiating your way down canyons by employing various techniques; abseiling and jumping waterfalls and cliffs, cascading down natural chutes and water slides, swimming through crystal clear pools and using special rope systems, such as flying foxes.There is usually a small amount of hiking required to access most courses, but once in the canyon, nearly 80% of the time is spent in the water. For the best explanation of canyoning watch the tour video.
Check out our frequently asked questions page and if you are still unsure about where to start ask our reservations staff. They can advise about which canyon would be best for YOU and our expert guides can customize the tour to suit YOUR thrill level!
Japan Canyoning
The sport of canyoing was introduced to Japan by Canyons boss, Mike Harris, way back in 1998. Mike was working in the rafting industry in Japan but recognized the need for new adventures. Canyoning was the perfect compliment to rafting trips and great for summer season when the water for rafting is typically lower.
Mike explored over 200 canyons throughout Japan and has introduced international guide standards and training systems.
CANYONING AREAS
Just a short trip from Tokyo
Minakami
Minakami is the adventure capital of Japan with a huge variety of activities available and many different canyoning courses, just 70 mins by bullet train from Tokyo.
The Canyons Minakami base has a lodge and glamping facility, bar and BBQ area so is the best choice for groups or people that want to stay and experience a combinations of activities.
Okutama
Okutama is the easiest to access area from Tokyo, just a 80 mins on a local train. Level 2-3 canyoning courses and packrafting are available as well as meals at our riverside Cafe AWA.
Okutama is great for small groups, couples and friends who want an easy day out of the city.
Kusatsu
Kusatsu area is one of those hidden gems. It is a bit of a journey to reach the base but the areas pristine nature and many amazing hot springs make it worth the effort.
The incredible Deer Canyon is perfect for small groups looking for an amazing wilderness experience.
Kiho
The Kii Peninsula is the mecca for canyoning in the Kansai area (Greater Osaka, Kyoto). The small town of Kiho in the south of Mie Prefecture has some of the best canyons in the area.
The area also has some great camping hiking ans some of the best seafood in Japan!
CANYONING FAQ
ALL THE DETAILS
What is Canyoning?
Canyoning is the sport of negotiating your way down canyons by employing various techniques including abseiling, jumping waterfalls and cliffs, cascading down natural chutes and water slides, swimming through crystal clear pools and using special rope systems, such as flying foxes. There is usually a small amount of hiking required to access most courses, but once in the canyon, nearly 80% of the time is spent in the water. For the best explanation of canyoning watch the Tour Videos.
Is canyoning dangerous?
A2. As with any adventure sport, canyoning involves an element of risk (riskier than sitting watching TV...) However, Canyons prides itself on using only highly professional experienced guides, and the highest quality safety equipment to control the risk element and provide you with a safe and positive canyoning experience.
I can't swim. Can I still go canyoning?
Definitely. Every participant wears a life-jacket which provides amply buoyancy. Our wet-suits also provides additional buoyancy so you not going to sink if you end up in the water and can't swim.
However, those who are afraid of water, or are likely to panic if they find themselves in the water, probably want to think twice.
How far in advance should I make a booking?
Pre-booking is necessary. The further in advance, the better. To be sure of securing a place on a weekend, it is best to book at least 2 weeks in advance, 3 weeks in advance for the summer period. It is possible that there will be places still left "on the day", but this is very rare so please pre-book so you do not miss out.
What should I bring canyoning?
Some swimwear and a towel is all you need. Canyons provide everything else that you need to take part in the tour (included in the tour price). However, you may want to bring other items that might be useful on the day such as sunscreen in the summer.
When is the best season for canyoning?
It is always a great time to go canyoning! There is no real best season for canyoning because unlike rafting it does not depend on a high volume of water. However, if you are after a more thrilling descent, May - July typically sees higher water flows. Canyoning tours operate daily from late April until mid October.