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Fukiware Falls

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Fukiware Falls

One of the region’s most celebrated scenic spots, offering both a magnificent waterfall and a picturesque gorge.

3.20 4

Last update :
Supervised by :  Numata Tourism Association

Most waterfall attractions are viewed from below, allowing visitors to look up and appreciate their power. Fukiware Falls, however, offers something different. It is a rare spot where you can look down on the falls and experience the immense power of nature.
Measuring 7 meters high and approximately 30 meters wide, it is also known as the “Niagara of the East.” The sight and sound of the abundant water surging between massive rocks and sending spray into the air is truly impressive.

This distinctive landscape began to form following a volcanic eruption more than 200,000 years ago. Volcanic activity created blockages and deposits, causing the Katashina River to repeatedly erode the tuff and form Fukiware Gorge. The gorge recedes by an average of 7.5 centimeters per year, meaning that Fukiware Falls has retreated approximately 750 meters since it formed 10,000 years ago.
This dramatic landscape, shaped by nature over an immense span of time, has appeared in the opening sequence of a TV drama and has recently attracted attention as a spiritual power spot.

A walking trail runs around the falls and is well worth exploring. It leads to various points of interest, including Fukiage Bridge and Ukishima Kannon Hall. The trail also offers an opportunity to take in the natural scenery of Fukiware Gorge, so allow plenty of time for a leisurely walk.

Highlights

  • From late April to early May, melting snow increases the water volume, making the falls most powerful at this time of year.
  • The falls were designated a national Natural Monument in 1936 and selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waterfalls in 1990.
  • A full loop of the walking trail takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
  • The walking trail is closed for winter from mid-December to late March.
  • The footing can be poor, so sneakers or other slip-resistant shoes are recommended.

Photos

  • From spring through summer, the falls create a striking contrast with the surrounding greenery

    From spring through summer, the falls create a striking contrast with the surrounding greenery

  • A powerful waterfall measuring 7 meters high and 30 meters wide

    A powerful waterfall measuring 7 meters high and 30 meters wide

  • Hannya Rock, which resembles a large hannya mask with its mouth open

    Hannya Rock, which resembles a large hannya mask with its mouth open

  • A popular destination for fall foliage

    A popular destination for fall foliage

  • A powerful sight framed by the natural beauty of each season

    A powerful sight framed by the natural beauty of each season

  • Nostalgic souvenir shops can also be found along the way

    Nostalgic souvenir shops can also be found along the way

Reviews

4

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • Yoidore-Unagi
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    The key to enjoying Fukiware Falls is to visit without expecting something on the scale of Iguazu Falls in South America, since the water volume is not always high.

    The area around the falls is well maintained and easy to walk, so enjoy not just the waterfall, but also the unusual rock formations and the changing scenery of the river.

    There is a hiking course around the gorge near the falls that takes about an hour, with three observation decks where you can look down on Fukiware Falls from above.

    Along the way, there are souvenir shops with a nostalgic feel, their goods casually and somewhat clutteredly displayed, and it’s the kind of scene that naturally makes you stop and take a look.

  • Bun Suini
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    You can get really close to the waterfall, which makes it super immersive. When the water flow is strong, it's honestly pretty breathtaking.

  • Thingnam19940301
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    The walking paths near the waterfall are well maintained and easy to walk on. When I visited, the water flow wasn't very strong, so it didn't have the powerful vibe of Niagara Falls.

  • 周琬婷
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    Surrounded by beautiful nature, you can really feel the powerful spray of the waterfall. No wonder it's called the 'Niagara Falls of the East.'

Details

Name in Japanese
吹割の滝
Postal Code
378-0303
Address
Okkai, Tone-machi, Numata City, Gunma Prefecture
Phone
0278-25-8555 (Numata Tourist Information Center)
Admission
Free
Closed on
Open year-round
Hours
The walking trail is closed at night and during winter
Access
(1) Approximately 20 minutes by car from Numata Interchange on the Kan-Etsu Expressway
(2) Approximately 40 minutes by bus from Numata Station on the JR Joetsu Line.
Official website
Official website (Japanese)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa