Kawazu Seven Waterfalls
A scenic 1km forest trail featuring seven diverse waterfalls, culminating in the majestic Odaru Waterfall and a unique onsen experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Kawazu Seven Waterfalls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 1km forest trail featuring seven diverse waterfalls, culminating in the majestic Odaru Waterfall and a unique onsen experience.
"A wonderful series of waterfalls that are very easy to access and well worth a visit."
🎯 Start from the Top
Walking downhill from the top waterfall is easier for most, especially with mobility issues. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Dip Your Feet
Cool off by dipping your feet in the river; some spots offer natural springs for refreshment. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Odaru Waterfall
End of the trail
The tallest and most impressive of the seven, a majestic 30-meter cascade surrounded by lush greenery.
Amagiso Odaru Onsen
Base of Odaru Waterfall
Unique hot springs with a waterfall view, offering a chance to soak while enjoying nature's power.
The Seven Waterfalls Trail
A scenic 1-km forest walk connecting all seven waterfalls, offering diverse natural beauty and photo opportunities.
Rock Throwing Challenge
Along the trail
A fun, traditional activity where you toss rocks into baskets for good luck.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Cherry Blossoms
Trail Navigation & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Start from the Top
Walking downhill from the top waterfall is easier for most, especially with mobility issues. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Dip Your Feet
Cool off by dipping your feet in the river; some spots offer natural springs for refreshment. :droplet:
🥽 Swimwear for Onsen
Wear swimwear to enjoy the unique waterfall onsen experience at Amagiso Odaru.
📝 Collect Waterfall Stamps
Each waterfall has a deity and story; collect stamps in a notebook for a unique souvenir. :pencil2:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Start from the Top
Walking downhill from the top waterfall is easier for most, especially with mobility issues. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Dip Your Feet
Cool off by dipping your feet in the river; some spots offer natural springs for refreshment. :droplet:
🥽 Swimwear for Onsen
Wear swimwear to enjoy the unique waterfall onsen experience at Amagiso Odaru.
📝 Collect Waterfall Stamps
Each waterfall has a deity and story; collect stamps in a notebook for a unique souvenir. :pencil2:
🚎 Bus to the Trailhead
Take a bus to the top waterfall to start your journey down the trail. :bus:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the beautiful scenery and well-maintained trails of the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls, highlighting the impressive Odaru Waterfall and the unique onsen experience. Some note that while generally accessible, certain sections have many stairs, and river access is restricted. The rock-throwing challenge is a fun, interactive element.
"The hike around the waterfalls was wonderful. It’s well kept and you can take the route from either end. We took a bus to the top of the trail and did it backwards. The falls are various sizes with a couple of them busting very tall and majestic.
They had a couple rock throwing challenges along the hike that were fun. You’d pay 100円 to an honesty box and then take three tries to toss the rock into a basket a ways out."
Julian Liby
"Wonderful walk along the river, gorgeous waterfalls. Mostly easy walking but some areas with lots (lots) of stairs. Can dip feet to cool down, one fall has a spring to help cool down. If you enjoy yourself at a leisurely pace, will take several hours. Or can be done quickly in probably just over an hour. If you find the hidden restaurant, go have barracuda or snapper!"
Who Onfirst
"A wonderful series of waterfalls that are very easy to access. The trail is very well kept mostly concrete and very easy for almost any one to complete. There are a few areas with some steep steps and a wooden bridge. The falls and river are beautiful and make this well worth a visit. You can complete it easily in under an hour even if you linger a while. There is a cool area where you can attempt to land some small stones on a rock out in the river for your wish to come true. Each fall has an associated diety a story and a stamp so be sure to bring a notebook to collect the stamps! You cannot get in the water though while we were there a tour group walking the river and going over some of the falls was going by. If you are in Shimoda or any nearby town this would make an excellent trip."
Trey Tollison
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The fastest way to reach Kawazu from Tokyo is by taking the JR Ito Line Limited Express 'Odoriko' from Tokyo Station to Kawazu Station. The journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. From Kawazu Station, you can take a local bus or taxi to the waterfalls.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls. However, during peak seasons like the cherry blossom festival, parking can be limited and crowded.
Yes, it's a popular day trip destination from Tokyo, especially during cherry blossom season. Be prepared for a long day of travel, but the scenic beauty is worth it.
Once you arrive in Kawazu, local buses are available to take you to the various points of interest, including the waterfalls. Walking the trail between the waterfalls is the primary way to explore the area.
The Kawazu Seven Waterfalls trail itself is generally free to access. However, some specific facilities or activities within the area, like the rock-throwing challenge, may have small fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Kawazu Seven Waterfalls are accessible year-round during daylight hours. The surrounding park and trails are open to visitors from morning until early evening.
No, advance booking is not typically required for general access to the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls. It's a natural attraction that you can explore at your own pace.
The trail is mostly well-maintained, but there are some stairs and uneven sections, so it's best suited for children who can walk independently. Strollers may be difficult to navigate in some parts.
Swimming in the waterfalls is generally prohibited for safety and conservation reasons. However, you can dip your feet in designated areas of the river to cool down.
While beautiful year-round, the Kawazu cherry blossoms bloom from late February to early March, making it a very popular time. For fewer crowds and pleasant weather, consider spring or autumn.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can complete the trail in about 1 to 1.5 hours at a leisurely pace, allowing time for photos and enjoying the scenery. Some visitors might take longer if they stop for activities like the rock-throwing challenge.
Yes, there are restrooms available along the trail and near the main entrances. You can also find small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs.
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots are recommended, as the trail has some stairs and can be uneven in places. Avoid open-toed sandals. :athletic_shoe:
The trail is not fully wheelchair accessible due to stairs and uneven terrain. Visitors with mobility issues may find it challenging.
It's a fun activity where you pay a small fee to toss rocks into a basket across the river for good luck. It's a unique way to interact with the natural surroundings.
🍽️ ♨️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants located near the waterfalls, offering local specialties. Some reviews mention trying barracuda or snapper at a hidden restaurant.
While exploring Kawazu, consider trying local seafood, especially if you find a restaurant serving barracuda or snapper.
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas. However, it's always good practice to clean up after yourself and dispose of trash properly.
There are small shops and vending machines along the trail where you can purchase drinks and snacks.
The Amagiso Resort, which houses the Odaru Onsen, previously offered dining. However, since the hotel burnt down, dining options directly at the onsen may be limited or unavailable.
📸 📸 Photography
Every waterfall offers unique photographic opportunities. Odaru Waterfall, the largest, is particularly stunning. The surrounding lush forest also provides beautiful backdrops.
Yes, the Amagiso Odaru Onsen is known for being tattoo-friendly, which is a significant plus for many visitors.
Morning light can be beautiful, offering softer shadows. However, the lush greenery and mist can create a magical atmosphere throughout the day.
Drone usage is typically restricted in natural parks and sensitive areas to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the waterfalls and surrounding landscape. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider starting the trail from the top and walking downhill to make the journey easier for little legs. While swimming in the falls is prohibited, dipping feet in the river can be a refreshing activity on a warm day. Pack snacks and water, as facilities can be spread out along the trail.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
For those interested in unique experiences, the tattoo-friendly Amagiso Odaru Onsen is a must-visit, offering a chance to relax and soak with a view of the waterfall. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some inclines and stairs.
💖 Couples & Relaxation Seekers
The Amagiso Odaru Onsen offers a unique shared experience, allowing couples to enjoy a warm soak with a stunning waterfall backdrop, all while being able to wear swimwear. It's a perfect way to unwind and connect amidst nature's beauty. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy by the river for a truly intimate experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Amagiso Odaru Onsen Experience
It's important to note that the Amagiso Resort hotel itself unfortunately burned down a few years ago. This means that while the onsen facilities may still be accessible, the associated hotel services and free onsen entry that would come with a stay are no longer available.
Crucially, this onsen is known for being tattoo-friendly and mixed-gender, allowing visitors to wear swimwear. This makes it a more inclusive and accessible experience for many travelers who might otherwise be hesitant to visit traditional Japanese onsen.
Navigating the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls Trail
However, be prepared for some steep staircases and occasional uneven terrain, especially if you choose to walk the entire length. Many visitors recommend starting from the top waterfall (Odaru) and walking downhill, as this can be less strenuous, particularly for those with mobility concerns. The tourist office in Kawazu can offer specific advice based on your physical condition.
Along the trail, you'll encounter various smaller waterfalls, each with its own unique charm and associated deity or story. Some sections allow you to dip your feet in the cool river water to refresh yourself. There's also a fun rock-throwing challenge where you can try to land stones in a basket for good luck, adding an interactive element to the hike.
Kawazu Cherry Blossoms: A Seasonal Spectacle
During the Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival, the town comes alive with vibrant pink blooms lining the riverbanks and streets. This period attracts a significant number of tourists, so expect crowded conditions and book accommodations and transportation well in advance if you plan to visit during this time.
If your primary interest is the waterfalls and you prefer a quieter experience, it's advisable to visit outside of the cherry blossom season. However, if you want to witness the spectacular combination of early blossoms and natural beauty, the festival period offers a truly memorable, albeit busy, experience.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit