Nachi Falls
Japan's tallest waterfall, a sacred cascade of 133m, set amidst ancient forests and a historic shrine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Nachi Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Japan's tallest waterfall, a sacred cascade of 133m, set amidst ancient forests and a historic shrine.
"This place is like stepping into a fairytale, Japan's tallest waterfall at 133 meters, surrounded by ancient forest."
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing some walking and climbing stairs to get the best views. :athletic_shoe:
Pagoda & Falls are separate
The main waterfall viewpoint and the iconic pagoda are in different locations, requiring some walking. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nachi Falls
Main viewpoint
Japan's tallest single-drop waterfall, a breathtaking 133-meter cascade surrounded by ancient forests.
Hiro Shrine
Near Nachi Falls
A sacred shrine with a striking three-story pagoda offering iconic views of the waterfall.
Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail
Surrounding area
Walk a portion of this ancient, sacred pilgrimage route, steeped in history and natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Getting There: Car vs. Train
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing some walking and climbing stairs to get the best views. :athletic_shoe:
Pagoda & Falls are separate
The main waterfall viewpoint and the iconic pagoda are in different locations, requiring some walking. :world_map:
Arrive before closing
Plan your visit to ensure you see the shrines and viewpoints before they close for the day. :clock:
Embrace the sacred atmosphere
This is a deeply spiritual place; take time to absorb the tranquility and natural beauty. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing some walking and climbing stairs to get the best views. :athletic_shoe:
Pagoda & Falls are separate
The main waterfall viewpoint and the iconic pagoda are in different locations, requiring some walking. :world_map:
Arrive before closing
Plan your visit to ensure you see the shrines and viewpoints before they close for the day. :clock:
Embrace the sacred atmosphere
This is a deeply spiritual place; take time to absorb the tranquility and natural beauty. :pray:
Capture the magic
Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning scenery, especially the waterfall and pagoda. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Nachi Falls for its breathtaking natural beauty and spiritual significance. The majestic waterfall and the iconic pagoda create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere, often described as stepping into a fairytale. While the journey can be long and some walking is involved, the scenic rewards are universally considered worth the effort.
"Beautiful waterfall only a short walk from the parking lot. Huge mature trees along the path. Another walking route from the parking lot takes you uphill to the pagoda around a small area with a few shops and cafe with views of the waterfall."
Mike Fujiwara
"It’s one of most scenic landmarks or sacred ground in Japan. Its verdure will definitely blow someone’s mind. Natures serenity gives you complete immovability. The waterfall itself so pulchritudinous that you reluctant to leave.
Note: pagoda and falls are not in same place, therefore you have to go little uphill. I went there by car but majority goes by foot.
Transportation: Easy accessible by both private or public transport. Parking & bus stoppages both are within 100m.
Nachifall Entry:¥300
Parking: ¥500~¥1000"
吉岡
"Beautiful sacred place to visit in Japan. This is one of the places made you feel like it captures the spirits of Japan, keeping the tradition inseparable from nature. The lush green of the trees around already won my heart, not to mention the majestic shot of waterfalls like arrows. It can't help reminding me of the dragon gate. Further as I learned about the myth of Jimmu and the dragon statues providing the waters, I felt a deeper connection with this place. In any event, come to find your personal connection to this heritage!"
Tee Ponsukcharoen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The fastest way to Nachi Falls from Osaka or Kyoto is often by renting a car, offering more flexibility than trains which can take a significant amount of time. If using public transport, you'll typically take a train to Kii-Katsuura Station and then a bus to Nachi Falls.
Yes, a day trip to Nachi Falls is possible, especially if you rent a car for quicker travel. However, be mindful of travel times and potential shrine closing hours.
Yes, there are parking facilities available near Nachi Falls, though fees apply.
Train journeys to Nachi Falls can be quite long, often taking several hours depending on your starting point and connections.
Absolutely! While a car offers convenience, you can reach Nachi Falls via train to Kii-Katsuura Station followed by a bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a small entry fee for the Nachi Falls viewpoint, typically around ¥300.
While the waterfall itself is accessible, the shrines and pagoda have specific operating hours. It's best to check these in advance to avoid disappointment.
Information on specific fees for the pagoda area can vary, but generally, access to the main waterfall viewpoint has a small charge.
The natural beauty of Nachi Falls can be appreciated at any time, but access to the associated shrines and facilities is limited to their operating hours.
Currently, there isn't widespread information about combined tickets. It's advisable to pay for individual access to the waterfall viewpoint and any specific shrine areas.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can spend around 30 minutes to an hour at the main viewpoint, not including any hiking to the pagoda or exploring the surrounding shops and cafes.
The most iconic viewpoint is from near the Hiro Shrine pagoda, offering a stunning perspective of the waterfall.
The walk from the parking lot to the main waterfall viewpoint involves stairs, and reaching the pagoda requires a further 15-minute hike uphill. It's moderately challenging.
Nachi Falls is considered sacred and has been worshipped for centuries, forming part of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route.
Yes, there are a few shops and a cafe located uphill near the pagoda area, offering views of the waterfall.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds for photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
The area around the Hiro Shrine pagoda provides the most classic and breathtaking photo opportunities.
Drone usage is generally restricted at sacred sites and national parks in Japan. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
Experiment with different angles from the main viewpoint and from the vicinity of the pagoda for varied perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Pilgrimage & Spiritual Seekers
The serene atmosphere, the sound of the cascading water, and the presence of the Hiro Shrine create an environment conducive to reflection and spiritual contemplation. +1 Allow ample time to soak in the sacred ambiance and perhaps walk a small section of the historic trail. 📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1 Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the visual appeal. Remember that the best angles often require a bit of walking and climbing stairs, so be prepared to explore for that perfect shot. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Significance of Nachi Falls
+1The presence of the Hiro Shrine and its iconic three-story pagoda adjacent to the falls further enhances its sacred aura. This harmonious blend of natural grandeur and spiritual architecture creates a unique and moving atmosphere. Many visitors report feeling a profound sense of peace and connection to Japan's ancient traditions when visiting.
Understanding this spiritual context enriches the visitor experience. It's not just about admiring a beautiful waterfall, but about stepping into a place where nature and divinity have been intertwined for millennia.
Navigating Nachi Falls: Access and Exploration
Upon arrival, parking is available, though fees apply.
It's crucial to be aware of the operating hours for the shrines and pagoda, as they are not always open late into the evening.
Planning your visit to ensure you have ample time to explore both the falls and the surrounding sacred sites is recommended for a complete experience. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit