Maruo Falls

Maruo Falls, located along the road from Maruo Onsen to Kirishima Jingu Shrine, is one of Kirishima City’s signature sightseeing spots. The waterfall, cascading like a bamboo blind from a height of 23 m and spanning 16 m wide, combines power and beauty for a truly spectacular view.

The water flowing down the falls comes from four upstream hot springs, including Sakaenoo Onsen and Iodani Onsen. This rare “hot-spring waterfall” is unusual even in Japan, and in winter you can see steam rising from the falls. Because of sulfur in the hot-spring water, the basin can sometimes look emerald green, making it especially beautiful. With seasonal scenery like fresh greenery and fall foliage, the landscape changes throughout the year, so you’ll want to visit again and again in different seasons.

There’s an observation deck just steps from the parking lot, and you can reach it without the stairs or steep slopes often found at waterfalls, so even families with small children and older visitors can enjoy it with ease. Nights are also popular, when the splashing waterfall is lit up and the area is wrapped in an atmospheric glow.