Known as the "Niagara of Japan," Fukiware Falls or Fukiware no Taki, is in Numata City, Gunma Prefecture. The lovely Katashina River turns into an impressive series of falls that drop from 7-meters high and span 30-meters wide. The beautiful falls surrounded by the lush forest on either side make for a popular tourist spot in any season. Especially exceptional are the colors of autumn as the river is colored by the reflections of colorful autumn trees.
Created by erosion spanning more than 10,000 years, these falls are a masterpiece of nature's power. To fully appreciate them, visitors should cross over the suspension bridge and promenade attached to the falls. You'll be afforded a variety of perspectives from which you can enjoy this vista.
There is much and more to enjoy beyond the main section of the falls. By traveling further down the valley, you can experience the Hannya Rocks (named for a traditional Japanese female demon) and rising mountainous outcrop called Byobu Rock, which looks like a folding paper screen. In fact, nature has done its best to impress when it comes to this area.
Masutobi Falls, so named for the trout that tried to jump up the falls to their spawning grounds, is another miniature fall of 15-meters high and 6-meter wide. Nearby, visit Oigami Onsen to relieve your stress and weariness in these mineral-rich hot springs.
There are also many legends surrounding the falls. Legend has it that Fukiware Falls leads to Ryugu, or the Dragon King's Palace. There is also a gold-leaf Kannon figure held in a small shrine. No matter what you decide to see while at Fukiware Falls, you'll surely be astounded by the sheer size and serene power of the falls and the rushing sound of water.
The promenade around Fukiware Falls is closed during the winter season, from early December to mid-March.
A 20-minute drive on Numata Interchange on the Kanetsu Expressway
A 40-minutes bud ride from JR Numata Station and then a 5-minute walk from "Fukiware-no-Taki" bus stop.
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