Kamegamori Forest Road

Kamegamori Forest Road, also known as the UFO Line, is a scenic mountain road that runs through Ehime and Kochi Prefectures in Shikoku.
It stretches for about 27 km and follows a ridgeline at around 1,300 meters elevation.
The road offers breathtaking views of the mountains and sky, giving you the feeling of driving through the clouds.

Recommended Driving Section

The best section is from Tsuchigoya to the Kanpuzan trailhead.
As you drive uphill through winding roads, the trees open up to reveal wide views of the Shikoku Mountains.
On a clear day, you can see as far as the Seto Inland Sea and Mt. Ishizuchi.

Road Conditions & Safety Info

The road is fully paved but narrow in many areas.
Some spots have sharp curves and no guardrails.
Please drive slowly and carefully, especially during fog.
Be cautious of falling rocks.
The road is closed in winter due to snow, usually from December to April.

Places to Stop

  • Tsuchigoya Trailhead: A starting point for hiking Mt. Ishizuchi, with parking available.
  • Mt. Kamegamori: A short hiking trail leads to a panoramic viewpoint.
  • Kanpuzan Trailhead: A quiet forested stop good for rest or a short walk.

Local Food Info

There are no restaurants along the road.
Nearby towns like Kumakogen and Ino offer local meals such as soba with mountain vegetables, rice balls, and dishes made with venison.

Toll & Access Info

The road is free to use.
From the Ehime side: Take Route 33 to Route 12, then follow the signs to Tsuchigoya.
From the Kochi side: Access via Ino Town and Kanpuzan Tunnel.
Parking is available at key trailheads.

Best Season & Climate

The best time to visit is from May to October.
Spring brings fresh greenery, summer offers cool air, and autumn colors are especially stunning.
The road is closed during winter due to heavy snow.

Touring Plan Example

Day trip from Matsuyama:
Matsuyama → Kumakogen → Tsuchigoya → Drive the Kamegamori Forest Road → Hike Mt. Kamegamori → Kanpuzan → Ino Town → Return to Matsuyama
Total travel time: about 6 to 7 hours