Tunnel of Light (Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel)
▼About the Artwork
For the “Echigo-Tsumari Art Triennale 2018,” Chinese architect Ma Yansong / MAD Architects renovated the entire Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel as an artwork.By utilizing the “Five Elements” of nature (trees, earth, metal, fire, and water), they created an architectural space with an artistic atmosphere, transforming this historic tunnel. The project aims to rethink the relationship between humans and nature and reconnect both local residents and visitors with the overwhelming beauty of the land.
▼Directions
【If arriving by car】
25 minutes by car from the Shiozawa-Ishiuchi Interchange on the Kan-Etsu Expressway (via National Route 353)
【If planning to arrive by other means】
① Use the Official Tour that departs from and returns to Echigo-Yuzawa Station
For details, please see the currently operating tours that stop at the Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel at the bottom of this page.
② Using public transportation only:
Take the express bus bound for Morimiyanohara from JR East’s “Echigo-Yuzawa Station” for approximately 25 minutes, then walk about 30 minutes after getting off at the “Kiyotsukyo Entrance” bus stop.
*Please note that service is limited, so please check both departure and return times carefully in advance before visiting. Click here for the timetable (Tsunan/Tokamachi area, Yuzawa–Morimiyanohara Station line).
▼Important Information for Visitors
1. Advance reservations are required during certain periods
To help alleviate congestion, we will be implementing a “reservation-based entry system.” During this period, tickets will not be sold on-site; entry will be limited to those who have purchased tickets in advance. If you plan to visit during this period, please purchase your entry ticket (date-and-time-specific ticket) in advance.
[2026 Advance Reservation Periods]
May 2 (Sat) – 6 (Wed)
July 18 (Sat) – 20 (Mon, Holiday)
August 1 (Sat) – 16 (Sun)
September 19 (Sat) – 23 (Mon, Holiday)
October 10 (Sat) – 12 (Mon, Holiday)
October 24 (Sat) – November 3 (Fri, Holiday)
2. Rates vary by season
From Tuesday, April 21, 2026, through Friday, November 20, 2026, we will be implementing a seasonal pricing period. Please note that during the off-season (starting Saturday, November 21, 2026), our current rates will apply.
[High Season – Individual] (Current prices in parentheses)
Adults: 1,200 yen (1,000 yen)
Elementary and Junior High School Students: 500 yen (400 yen)
Adults (with Arts Festival Common Ticket): 600 yen (500 yen)
Elementary and Junior High School Students (with Common Ticket) … 400 yen (350 yen)
【High Season – Groups】 (Prices in parentheses are current rates)
Adults … 1,000 yen (900 yen)
Elementary and Junior High School Students … 400 yen (350 yen)
Adults (with Arts Festival Common Ticket) ・・・・・ 600 yen (500 yen)
Elementary and Junior High School Students (with Arts Festival Common Ticket) ・・・ 400 yen (350 yen)
▼Please note the following when viewing
This artwork tends to get crowded. While many visitors gather around the water mirror to take photos, the area is also frequented by people who come to enjoy the scenery, as well as those in wheelchairs, visitors with disabilities, and those accompanied by pets. Please be mindful not to keep other visitors waiting or obstruct their view while taking photos, and thank you for your cooperation in ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience comfortably.
Facility Info and Map
| Open hours | 《March–November》8:30 AM–5:00 PM (Last reception at 4:30 PM) 《December–February》9:00 AM–4:00 PM (Last reception at 3:30 PM) *Advance reservations are required during peak seasons (Golden Week, long weekends, Obon, and fall foliage season). *The facility may be temporarily closed due to snowfall or other conditions. |
|---|---|
| Tel | 025-763-4800 |
| Admission | [Off-Season | Until April 20, 2026] Adults: 1,000 yen, Elementary and Junior High School Students: 400 yen (Group rates for 20 or more people: Adults: 900 yen, Elementary and Junior High School Students: 350 yen) [High Season | From April 21, 2026] Adults: 1,200 yen, Elementary and Junior High School Students: 500 yen (Group rates for 20 or more people: Adults: 1,000 yen, Elementary and Junior High School Students: 400 yen) |
| Official Website | https://nakasato-kiyotsu.com/ |
| Address | 2119-2 Koide-ki, Tokamachi city, Niigata Prefecture |
Related Tours / Itineraries
Articles
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