Yabakei

Yabakei (耶馬溪) is a scenic area located in Nakatsu, Ōita Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its dramatic rock formations, caves, and vibrant autumn foliage, making it a popular tourist destination. The area stretches approximately 36 kilometers along the Yamakuni River.

Yabakei is divided into several smaller scenic spots, including:

• Hon-Yabakei (本耶馬溪): The main area of Yabakei, featuring notable landmarks like Hitome Hakkei (一目八景), a viewpoint offering panoramic views of eight distinct rock formations, and the Ao no Dōmon (青の洞門), a tunnel carved through a rock face by a Buddhist priest named Zenkai in the 18th century to improve the safety of passage.

• Shin-Yabakei (新耶馬溪): Located further upstream, Shin-Yabakei offers equally stunning scenery with a more rugged and less developed landscape.

• Okuyabakei (奥耶馬溪): Deeper into the mountains, Okuyabakei provides a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere.

The name "Yabakei" derives from the resemblance of the landscape to a Buddhist paradise, often described as "Ya-no-kuni," meaning "land of arrows." The kanji used for Yabakei (耶馬溪) literally translates to "Ya (耶) - horse (馬) - valley (溪)."

Yabakei is accessible by car and bus from Nakatsu Station. The area offers various hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for photography. The best time to visit Yabakei is during the autumn foliage season, typically from late October to mid-November, when the trees display a spectacular array of colors.