Located in Wakayama prefecture, Nachi Falls, Nachi-no-Otaki, is one of Japan’s most famous and tallest waterfalls. With its impressive 133 meters drop and beautiful natural surroundings, it is no surprise that many people take the time to visit this area of Japan and see the falls close-up.
Before you decide whether to add a World Heritage Site to your list of places to visit, here are some things you should know. Firstly, the overall hike around Nachi Falls takes around 3 hours, so you will need to dedicate the day to this sightseeing spot. Additionally, although the hike is considered fairly easy, it does require walking up and down a lot of cobble stairs, which can often be steep and daunting for those who aren’t the most confident walking.
All of this said, visiting Nachi Falls is truly a once-in-a-lifetime sort of experience as you will not only see the beauties of nature in a whole new light but witness one of Japan’s most iconic views.
How to Get There
Admittedly, Nachi Falls isn’t the easiest place to get to. Although the falls are in Wakayama, they are actually quite far away from Wakayama city. If you are planning to make the trip from there, prepare to take the long 3-hour train journey. For around ¥6,000, each way, you can take the Kuroshio Line directly to Kii-Katsuura station.
For those coming from Osaka, you can also take the Kuroshio Line, however, this trip will be around 4-hours and cost just over ¥7,000.
After you have arrived at Kii-Katsuura station, you will then have to take the local bus, the 31 Nachisan Line. Although the bus takes you directly to the falls, it is recommended that you get off at Daimon-zaka and start the hike from there. This one-way trip will cost you just over ¥400.
The Start of the Hike
Once you arrive at the Daimon-zaka bus stop, you will see a small tourist-information hut as well as a big box of wooden walking sticks which you can borrow for the duration of your hike. If you are not sure whether to take a walking stick at this point, you don’t need to worry as there will be other opportunities to do so later on.
You will then want to start walking up the road and towards the stone slab photographed above. A little after this point, you will come across a little shop called Daimonzaka Chaya. Here, you can rent Heian period costumes which you can wear and take photos in on the cobblestone steps and other areas near the waterfall.
From this point, you can expect quite a lot of cobblestone steps as well as the magnificent sight of centuries-old Japanese cedars and cypress trees. Before you make your way up, take a moment to look at the impressive Meitosugi, otherwise known as the “husband and wife cedar trees”. The course should take about 30 minutes, with there being a total of 267 stairs. In terms of difficulty, this route is fairly easy and is suitable for even the most casual walker.
Kumano-Nachi Taisha
Once you get to the top of Daimon-zaka, continue walking up the stairs for another 20 minutes and you will get to Kumano-Nachi Taisha. This Shinto Shrine, which is part of the Kumano Sanzan, boasts breathtaking views since it is located halfway on Mount Nachi, roughly around 350 meters above sea level.
Kumano-Nachi Taisha has a mix of Shinto and Buddhist buildings and is one of the most significant pilgrimage destinations. The Three-Legged Crow, known as the Yatagarasu, is the symbol of the shrine and is featured on the Goshuin, shrine stamps, and Omamori, good luck charms.
As you continue through the grounds of the shrine, you will eventually see the iconic view of the falls and three-storied pagoda. Named Seiganto-ji, this temple is also part of Kumano Sanzan and is said to have been built near the falls as a place for individuals to worship nature. Although you can take a good photograph of the view from up here, you can get an even better one as you make your way down towards the falls.
Before you make your final approach to the falls, take a quick break and look at some souvenirs in the shop located next to the grounds of the shrine. This is also your chance to try some ume or brown sugar ice cream.
The Famous Falls
Once you follow the signs and walk down from Kumano-Nachi Taisha, you will approach the entrance to the famous Nachi Falls. As soon as you walk through the Torii Gate, you will be surrounded by beautiful greenery and feel a deep appreciation for everything nature has to offer.
As you make your way down the final set of stairs, you will see the spectacular view of Japan’s tallest waterfall and hear the sounds of the water pouring down. The Hiro Shrine, built in honor of the water deity, stands at the bottom of the falls.
As you make your way down the final set of stairs, you will see the spectacular view of Japan’s tallest waterfall and hear the sounds of the water pouring down. The Hiro Shrine, built in honor of the water deity, stands at the bottom of the falls.
Although the shrine is free to enter, you can pay ¥300 to go up to the observation deck and an additional ¥100 to taste the water. It is believed that if you drink this water, you will gain good fortune and a long life.
- Nachi Falls
- 〒649-5301, Nachisan, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama
- 25 minute bus ride from Kii-Katsuura Station
- Open 24 hours
- Free (¥100 - ¥300 for Observation Deck)
- https://en.visitwakayama.jp/
Rest Up and Enjoy Some Food and a View
Near the entrance to the falls are a couple of shops and restaurants. Here, you can try some local food as well as shop for some more Wakayama-themed souvenirs.
For those who want to take in the wonderful surroundings, stop by the restaurant and shop, Miyamatei. Here, you can enjoy some home-style cooking in addition to trying out some local food. Prices start from around ¥300 for light snacks and go up to over ¥1000 for the set meals. Conveniently, the menu comes in English as well, making it a great pitstop for tourists.
From curry rice to udon, there is a good selection to choose from. If you decide to choose one of the set meals, you will be able to try one of Wakayama’s famous foods, Meharizushi, a ball of rice covered in Takana (mustard leaf). This has a picturesque view, overlooking the other mountains.
Conveniently, the bus stop which will take you back to Kii-Katsuura Station is located just outside Miyamatei. This bus is not very regular so you may need to wait a little to get back into the main town. The journey back will cost you just over ¥600.
For more details on the bus schedule as well as more general information about the area. We recommend stopping by the Tourist Information Center, located just outside Kii-Katsuura Station.
