Nachi Falls, located in Nachikatsuura town, Wakayama Prefecture, is renowned as one of Japan’s three most famous waterfalls. With an impressive drop of 133 meters, this waterfall has been revered since ancient times and is a central site of worship in the Kumano faith.
The area surrounding the falls is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes in every season.
This article provides detailed information about Nachi Falls, including its history, highlights, access options, and nearby attractions and accommodations. Visitors are captivated by the overwhelming power of the falls and the historical and cultural richness of the surrounding landscape.
What is Nachi Falls?
Nachi Falls, located in Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most iconic waterfalls. It is registered as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.”
In this section, we will introduce an overview and the history of Nachi Falls.
Basic Information About Nachi Falls
Nachi Falls, located in Nachikatsuura town, Wakayama Prefecture, is counted among Japan’s three most famous waterfalls. With a drop of 133 meters and a width of 13 meters, it boasts the highest vertical drop of any single uninterrupted waterfall in Japan. The water flow is over 1 ton per second, maintaining a robust volume year-round.
The area surrounding the falls is part of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route and is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting many tourists and pilgrims. The lush nature around the falls offers beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons.
History of Nachi Falls
Nachi Falls has been revered since ancient times and has become a vital center of the Kumano faith. The waterfall itself is considered a sacred dwelling place of a deity and is worshipped as the object of veneration at Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine. The belief in the sacredness of the falls is rooted in ancient “water deity worship,” where the deity that brings blessings of water was highly revered.
The waterfall also appears in many historical texts and poems, celebrated for its beauty and mystique. In the Heian period, nobles visited the site and composed poems praising its beauty. The area around the falls is also known for the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, an ancient path frequented by pilgrims.
Highlights of Nachi Falls
Nachi Falls fascinates visitors with its sheer power and ethereal beauty. Here are some of the main attractions:
The Awe-Inspiring 133-Meter Drop
The most remarkable feature of Nachi Falls is its incredible drop. The sight of water plunging 133 meters in a single, unbroken stream leaves a lasting impression on those who witness it.
A viewing platform is situated directly beneath the falls, offering a breathtaking view as you gaze up at the powerful cascade. The spray of water crashing into the basin below is exhilarating, and the roaring sound is another element that enchants visitors.
During the rainy season, the water volume increases, making the falls even more powerful. The rich surrounding nature also offers a refreshing environment filled with negative ions.
Seasonal Scenery
Nachi Falls is a place where you can enjoy stunning seasonal landscapes. In spring, fresh greenery surrounds the falls, bringing vibrant life to the area. In summer, the coolness of the falls provides a perfect escape from the heat. In autumn, the surrounding trees turn red and yellow, creating a beautiful contrast with the white water of the falls.
In winter, the combination of snow and the waterfall creates a mystical scene that looks like a painting. The autumn foliage season is particularly popular, attracting many visitors. The contrast between Nachi Falls and the autumn colors is a breathtaking sight that leaves a deep impression on all who see it.
Mist and Light Show
Early in the morning or in the evening, you can witness a magical show of mist and light at Nachi Falls. Especially during sunrise or sunset, the mist rising from the falls can create rainbows, turning the scene into a work of natural art.
The surrounding area is prone to mist, and when light filters through, it creates a mysterious atmosphere. Visiting during these times allows you to enjoy a unique experience that you can’t find anywhere else.
Nearby Tourist Attractions Around Nachi Falls
Here are some recommended spots to visit along with Nachi Falls:
Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine
Located near Nachi Falls, Kumano Nachi Taisha is one of the three major Kumano shrines and has been a place of worship since ancient times. The shrine’s beautiful buildings exude a deep sense of history and faith. Kumano Nachi Taisha venerates Nachi Falls as a sacred object and worships the waterfall itself as a deity.
Every July, the “Nachi Fire Festival” is held, where the shrine grounds are illuminated by countless torches, creating a spectacular sight. This festival is one of Japan’s three major fire festivals and draws many visitors. The shrine’s approach and the beautiful surroundings can also be enjoyed by visitors.
Seiganto-ji Temple
Seiganto-ji Temple, standing against the backdrop of Nachi Falls, is the first temple of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. The temple offers a stunning view of Nachi Falls, making it a prime spot for photography. Especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season, many tourists visit to enjoy the beauty.
Seiganto-ji has been a destination for pilgrims since ancient times and is also popular as a beautiful photo spot with the waterfall in the background. The temple grounds include historical buildings and statues, allowing visitors to feel the rich history and culture.
Mount Nachi
Mount Nachi is a vast natural park that includes Nachi Falls, offering rich forests and stunning landscapes. There are well-maintained hiking trails, allowing visitors to explore the falls and surrounding attractions while enjoying a walk in nature.
From Mount Nachi, you can also enjoy a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean. The hiking trails range from beginner to advanced levels, providing a variety of routes to suit different hikers. Meeting seasonal flowers and wildlife is another pleasure of exploring this area.
Access to Nachi Falls
By Public Transportation
The nearest station to Nachi Falls is Kii-Katsuura Station on the JR Kisei Main Line. From Kii-Katsuura Station, you can take a bus to the falls, which takes about 30 minutes. Buses run regularly, making access convenient.
- Route
Nearest Station: JR Kisei Main Line, Kii-Katsuura Station
↓ Kumano Gobo Nankai Bus
About 26 minutes to the “Nachi Falls” bus stop - Fare
Adults: 630 yen
Children: 320 yen
Convenient Parking for Drivers
You can also reach Nachi Falls by car, using the Hanwa Expressway or the Kisei Expressway to reach Nachikatsuura Town. From the town center, it takes about 20 minutes to reach Nachi Falls. A scenic drive is an enjoyable way to get there. There are several parking lots available for tourists around Nachi Falls, such as the Takimae Parking Lot and Nachisan Parking Lot, which are relatively spacious. However, these parking lots can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, so it’s recommended to arrive early. Here are some recommended parking lots:
Miyama-tei Parking
This parking lot, located just past Nachi Falls, also serves as parking for the Miyama-tei gift shop. At Miyama-tei, you can enjoy meals and shop for souvenirs. The black candy soft serve with Nachi kuro flavor is a unique treat.
| Parking Fee | 500 Yen |
|---|---|
| Service | discounts available for purchases at Miyama-tei |
Seiganto-ji Temple Parking Lot
The parking lot at Seiganto-ji Temple is free, but there is an 800 yen toll for the road (disaster prevention road) to get there. While this lot is a bit farther from Nachi Falls, it is very close to Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine and Seiganto-ji Temple.
| Toll | 800 Yen |
|---|
Nachi Mountain Tourism Center
Located farther from Nachi Falls, this tourism center has the largest parking lot on Mount Nachi, with space for 70 regular cars. The center also has a souvenir shop, making it a great starting or ending point for your Nachi Mountain visit. It’s about a 10-minute walk to the entrance of Nachi Falls.
| Parking Fee | Weekdays Free Peak Season: 500 yen |
|---|
Nearby Accommodations
There are many accommodations around Nachi Falls, including onsen ryokan (hot spring inns) and hotels in Kii-Katsuura Onsen, where you can relax after visiting the falls. Enjoying a soak in the onsen while reflecting on the day’s experiences is the perfect way to unwind.
Many of the accommodations offer meals featuring local ingredients, allowing you to savor the delicious seafood and mountain produce of Wakayama.
Hotel Urashima
Hotel Urashima is a long-established landmark hotel in Nachikatsuura, famous for its hot springs. Among its hot springs, the large cave baths “Boukido” and “Genbudo” are particularly well-known. From these baths, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean.
The hotel offers buffet-style meals centered around tuna and local ingredients, and the buffet was recently revamped as “Kumano Cuisine,” offering dishes made with the bounty of the Kumano sea and mountains.
Access: A 6-minute walk from JR Kisei Main Line’s Kii-Katsuura Station to the pier, then a 5-minute ride on the hotel’s exclusive boat or shuttle bus.
Yukai Resort Premium Nanki Katsuura Onsen Koshinoyu
Yukai Resort Premium Nanki Katsuura Onsen Koshinoyu is located in a place surrounded by the rich nature and sea of Nanki Katsuura. The onsen facilities include open-air baths and large communal baths, with the open-air baths being particularly popular for their views of the sea. The onsen’s water is a “sodium chloride – hydrogen carbonate spring” that is said to have beautifying effects on the skin.
Meals feature fresh local seafood, which can be enjoyed buffet-style.
Access: By train, take the JR Kisei Main Line to Kii-Katsuura Station, then use the free shuttle bus. Kii-Katsuura Station is about a 3.5-hour ride from Shin-Osaka Station on the Limited Express Kuroshio.
Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima
Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima is an exclusive retreat on a small island called Nakanoshima, located off the coast of Nachikatsuura. The entire island is reserved for guests, offering a highly private environment. To reach the inn, guests take a private boat from the port in Nachikatsuura Town.
The island is about a 5-minute boat ride from the port and is surrounded by serene nature. Once you step onto the island, you’ll find yourself in a peaceful paradise, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city. The outdoor baths offer a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, and soaking in the onsen while feeling the sea breeze is a unique experience. The sunrises and sunsets are especially beautiful, offering unforgettable moments.
All rooms are ocean-view and feature a modern Japanese design, with some suites even offering private open-air baths.
The sound of the waves as you relax in your room provides a luxurious experience that soothes both the mind and body. The inn’s restaurant serves kaiseki (traditional multi-course) meals made with fresh seafood from the Kumano Sea. The beautifully presented dishes are a feast for both the eyes and the palate, making dining one of the highlights of your stay.
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