Absolutely breathtaking 😭! The gorge is like a dream, and taking a boat ride is such a vibe—it really feels like stepping into an animated movie scene. Perfect spot to relax and snap some beautiful photos!

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Manai Falls
A symbolic waterfall of Takachiho Gorge, offering breathtaking views whether admired from above or from a boat below.
Takachiho Gorge, designated as a National Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument, is a stunning landscape formed by the erosion of pyroclastic flows from Mount Aso's eruption. The result is a unique gorge with striking columnar cliffs, known as columnar jointing.
Manai Falls, the highlight of Takachiho Gorge, is one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls. The water cascades 17 meters from the "Onokoro Pond" in a natural park above the cliffs, resembling a graceful white serpent as it flows into the gorge. According to legend, during the descent of the heavenly deities (Tenson Korin), the god Amenomurakumo no Mikoto brought the water source from the celestial Manai spring, which became the origin of this waterfall.
While the falls can be admired from the bridge at the entrance to the gorge or from viewing platforms along the walking trails, a boat ride through the gorge offers a unique perspective. Rentals cost between ¥4,100 and ¥5,100 per boat, accommodating up to three people for 30 minutes. The view of the falls and the towering columnar cliffs from up close is truly awe-inspiring. Additionally, during summer, the falls are illuminated at night, adding a magical touch to the scenery.
Highlights
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A renowned waterfall located in Takachiho Gorge.
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Selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls.
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Nearby viewing platforms offer scenic views of the falls and gorge.
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For a closer look, renting a boat is highly recommended.
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Illuminated at night during the summer season.
Photos
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You can admire the stunning beauty of this waterfall, truly deserving its place among Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, up close.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
English and Chinese are available.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
Yes, it is.
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Is parking available?
Yes.
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Are there restrooms available?
Yes, there are.
Reviews
If the original text is in another language, the AI will automatically translate and display it.
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The waterfall rushes down the cliff with incredible force—it's really impressive!
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Ran into a lot of Korean tourists who were talking really loudly, which was a bit of a shame for such beautiful scenery.
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The waterfall looks especially beautiful here, perfectly complementing the narrow gorge and those impressive columnar cliffs.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 真名井の滝
- Postal Code
- 882-1101
- Address
- Mitai, Takachihocho, Nishiusukigun, Miyazaki
- Telephone
- 0982-73-1213 (Takachiho Town Planning and Tourism Division)
- Closed
- Free to walk
- Business Hours
- Walk anytime
- Admission
- Free
- Access
- A 90-minute ride on a Miyazaki Kotsu bus from Nobeoka Station on the Nippo Main Line, followed by a 15-minute taxi ride from Takachiho Bus Center.
- Credit Cards
- Not accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (Japanese)