One of the most impressive waterfalls we saw in Japan so far! It is quite high, and had very powerful flow to it, as it just rained a few days before we went there. We visited after our hike in Kamikochi. It was close to our ryokan. Easily accessible, has a carpark and public toilets. It is a short walk away from the carpark. It is a very tall waterfall, in a very impressive and pretty nature setting. The autumn leaves were showing already in the area too. It is secluded and had many posters informing about bears so be careful!
One of the most beautiful waterfalls I've seen and in a very unassuming location. It's a fairly easy albeit uphill walk from town but there's a parking lot and a clean public bathroom nearby the entrance.
Q a beautiful waterfall that one can drive all the way in, if not the walk looks like it can be quite a distance two way.
Tall and strong, quite majestic and zen in its own way.
Hirayu Waterfall is absolutely beautiful. The best part is how accessible it is—you don’t have to hike for hours to enjoy such a stunning view. It’s only about a 5-minute walk from the car park, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth stopping by for a peaceful and scenic experience.
Hirayu Waterfall (Hirayu Ōtaki) is one of the most impressive waterfalls. With a height of 64 meters and a width of 6 meters, it ranks among the highest waterfalls in the country and is listed as one of Japan’s “Top 100 Waterfalls” by the Ministry of the Environment.
According to a 450-year-old tale, a white monkey was seen emerging from behind the falls. Soldiers followed it and discovered the healing hot springs of Hirayu Onsen, which helped restore their strength after battle.
The waterfall is easily accessible from the Hirayu Onsen bus stop. It takes 10-minute walk from the parking (in front of the restaurant).
In mid-April 2025, the waterfall did not appear particularly impressive. Due to lingering snow, it was not possible to approach it closely.
