Four Cauldron-Shaped Rock Pools
The defining feature of Dokama is its series of large, bowl-shaped potholes in the rocky riverbed. As the Sadamitsu River rushed through the narrow gorge over long periods, flowing water and swirling stones gradually eroded the bedrock, creating these unusual formations. Each of the four pools differs in shape and size, giving the gorge a distinctive character that resembles a series of natural stone cauldrons.
These formations offer a vivid example of how water can transform solid rock over geological time. Protected as a prefectural Natural Monument, Dokama is an excellent place to appreciate the power of nature and the intricate landscapes it creates.
Explore the Scenery Downstream
The area around Dokama contains further scenic spots, including Nino-kama and Sanno-kama downstream. These rock formations share the same distinctive character, shaped by the river’s persistent flow through the gorge.
Nearby, the Narutaki River, a tributary of the Sadamitsu River, is home to Narutaki Waterfall. This waterfall has also been recognized among Tokushima’s notable scenic destinations and Shikoku’s celebrated waterside sites. Visiting Dokama together with the surrounding river scenery makes for a rewarding excursion into the natural landscapes of Tsurugi Town.
Location in Ichiu Gorge
Dokama lies within Ichiu Gorge in Tsurugi Town, where the Sadamitsu River cuts through a narrow valley. The river belongs to the Yoshino River system, one of the major river systems of Shikoku. Its powerful current has gradually carved the gorge and shaped the remarkable potholes that define Dokama today.
The surrounding area is rich in mountain scenery, with the river winding through a landscape of forested slopes and rocky terrain. The changing seasons bring different colors and atmospheres to the valley, making Dokama an appealing destination throughout the year.
The Sadamitsu River: Nature and Local History
The Sadamitsu River flows through Tsurugi Town in Tokushima Prefecture and eventually joins the Yoshino River. It is also known by the alternative name Yuma-gawa, or Yuma River. The river and its tributaries have long shaped the area’s natural environment, local livelihoods, and cultural history.
The river originates in the Mount Marusasa area of the Tsurugi Mountains, at an elevation of approximately 1,712 meters. Its clear waters flow through the mountains and valleys of Tsurugi Town, creating attractive scenery and habitats for freshwater fish, including amego trout and ayu sweetfish. Fishing remains a popular way for local residents and visitors to enjoy the river’s natural environment.
The Origins of the Name Yuma-gawa
The alternative name Yuma-gawa is associated with the ancient Imbe people, who are said to have cultivated a plant known as yuma in the region. They soaked its fibers in river water to loosen the outer material before processing them into textiles. This traditional fiber-working practice is remembered in the river’s historical name and reflects the area’s longstanding connection with local resources and craft production.
From Timber Transport to Hydroelectric Power
In earlier times, the Sadamitsu River served as a route for transporting timber from the surrounding forests downstream. Its waters played an important role in moving forest resources before the development of improved roads. In the mid-Meiji period, the opening of a county road reduced the river’s importance as a transportation route.
The river later became a source of hydroelectric power. Kira Power Station was built in 1925 with a maximum output of 2,700 kilowatts, followed by Kirikoshi Power Station in Ichiu Village in 1931, with an output of 4,000 kilowatts. These developments helped bring the river’s natural energy into the region’s industries and everyday life.
Getting to Dokama
By Public Transportation
From Sadamitsu Station on the JR Tokushima Line, take a community bus to the Dokama bus stop. The waterfall is approximately a 2-minute walk from the stop, making it relatively easy to reach by public transportation.
By Car
Dokama is approximately a 30-minute drive from Mima Interchange on the Tokushima Expressway. Driving is a convenient way to explore the gorge and other scenic attractions in the surrounding mountain region.
With its unusual rock formations, rushing river, and protected natural scenery, Dokama offers visitors a chance to discover a lesser-known side of Tokushima Prefecture. It is an especially appealing stop for travelers exploring Tsurugi Town and the mountain landscapes of western Tokushima.