The deep valley of the Takasegawa River is celebrated for its natural beauty year-round, but it is particularly attractive during the autumn months, when the trees are at their most colorful peak.   The river originates in the Abukuma mountain range and makes its way through the Abukuma Chubu Prefectural Natural Park, highlighted in some areas by intricate waterfalls, unusual rock formations and massive rocks that form the sides of the deep gorge. It was selected as one of the country’s best rivers for fishing for ayu (sweetfish), though this was halted after the nuclear accident of March 2011. A prefectural road follows the course of the river for easy access to great views. Along the road is the trailhead for climbing Mt. Tekura (430 meters) for great views of the surrounding mountains and the Pacific Ocean in the distance. Following the nuclear accident, travel restrictions in the gorge has only been lifted for the area around Katsurao Village, so please follow instructions when visiting the area.