Namekawa Great Falls

What it is

• A massive waterfall measuring 80 meters high and 40 meters wide.
• One of the officially designated Top 100 Waterfalls in Japan.
• A natural site situated at an altitude of 860 meters on rhyolite geology.
• A location featuring a temporary secondary waterfall called Nunobiki during high water.

What to see

• The main 80-meter drop cascading over ancient volcanic rock layers.
• A new 20-meter suspension bridge installed for visitors in 2022.
• An observation point overlooking the falls and surrounding mountain landscape.
• The waterfall basin accessible via a 20-minute trail from the lookout.

When to go

• Periods of high water to see the temporary Nunobiki waterfall appear.
• Outside of the winter season when local access roads are fully open.
• Winter months only if prepared for a three to four hour hike.

Getting there

• Walk 20 minutes from Namekawa Onsen to reach the main observation point.
• Park near Namekawa Bridge as the local inn parking is restricted.
• Hike three to four hours from Toge Station during the winter closure.

Notes written by Japan Gems from facts in Japanese Wikipedia.