Nachi Falls

Getting There

Located in the Kii Mountain Range, Nachi Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder and Japan’s highest uninterrupted single drop waterfall. While it may seem like a remote destination, getting to Nachi Falls is relatively accessible by public transportation.

To access this natural wonder, you can take a limited express train from Osaka to Kii Katsuura Station, which takes approximately 2 hours. From there, board the local bus and travel for about 30 minutes until you reach Nachisan Bus Stop. Alternatively, you can also take a train from Nagoya to Kii-Katsuura, which takes around 4 hours.

Once you arrive at Nachisan Bus Stop, it’s just a short five-minute walk to Seiganto-Ji Temple’s viewpoint, where you can see the famous three-storied pagoda with Nachi Falls in the background. For a more immersive experience, consider paying a small fee to access the pagoda and enjoy the sacred waterfall from its viewpoint.

As you plan your visit, keep in mind that the falls are surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves in fall. To make the most of your trip, wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll need to walk down stairs through the forest to Hirou Shrine for a closer view of the falls. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the pagoda and waterfall.

If you prefer a more organized tour, consider taking a guided day trip that includes transportation to Nachi Falls and back. These tours often include additional activities, such as hiking along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route or visiting other nearby attractions. Alternatively, you can also choose to stay near Nachi Falls in one of the local guesthouses or hotels for convenience during your visit.

Overall, with some planning, you can have a memorable and enjoyable visit to this natural wonder. By considering the time of year, wearing comfortable shoes, and bringing a camera, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the beauty of Nachi Falls.

Walking Trail

Getting to Nachi Falls: A Guide

Nachi Falls, Japan’s highest uninterrupted single drop waterfall, is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Kii Mountain Range. Despite its remote location, it can be accessed by public transportation.

To get to Nachi Falls, take a limited express train from Osaka or Nagoya to Kii-Katsuura Station. The journey takes approximately 2-4 hours, depending on your starting point. From there, board a local bus and travel for about 30 minutes until you reach Nachisan Bus Stop.

Once you arrive at Nachisan Bus Stop, it’s just a short five-minute walk to Seiganto-Ji Temple’s viewpoint, where you can see the famous three-storied pagoda with Nachi Falls in the background. For a closer view of the falls, consider paying a small fee to access the pagoda or walking down stairs through the forest to Hirou Shrine.

Tips for Visiting Nachi Falls

  • Plan your visit according to the time of year: The falls are surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves in fall.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll need to walk on uneven terrain and climb stairs.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the pagoda and waterfall.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • If you’re planning to hike along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, bring plenty of water and snacks.

Accommodation Options

If you prefer not to take a day trip, consider staying near Nachi Falls in one of the local guesthouses or hotels. This will give you more time to explore the area and enjoy the natural beauty of the falls.

Overall, with some planning and preparation, you can have a memorable and enjoyable visit to Nachi Falls. By considering the time of year, wearing comfortable shoes, and bringing a camera, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the beauty of this natural wonder.

Nachi-no-taki / 和ぬの羊 (Nachi Falls)

Located in the Kii Mountain Range, Nachi Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world. As Japan’s highest uninterrupted single drop waterfall, it stands at an impressive 133 meters tall. Despite its remote location, Nachi Falls can be easily accessed by public transportation.

The best time to visit Nachi Falls largely depends on your preferences. If you’re looking for a picturesque scene, consider visiting during spring when the falls are surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms or in autumn when vibrant leaves create a stunning backdrop. Regardless of the season, it’s essential to wear comfortable shoes as you’ll need to walk on uneven terrain and climb stairs.

To make the most of your visit, plan ahead and research the best times to avoid crowds. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can provide a more serene experience. Bringing a camera is also a must to capture the stunning views of the pagoda and waterfall. For those interested in exploring further, consider paying a small fee to access the pagoda or walking down stairs through the forest to Hirou Shrine for a closer view of the falls.

For hikers planning to tackle the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, it’s crucial to bring plenty of water and snacks. Alternatively, staying near Nachi Falls in one of the local guesthouses or hotels can provide more time to explore the area and enjoy the natural beauty of the falls. This also offers an opportunity to delve deeper into the local culture and participate in traditional ceremonies and rituals.

Nachi Falls is not only a natural wonder but also a culturally significant site, considered sacred by the local community. Visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of the area, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in natural beauty, culture, and spirituality.

Takeshi Nakamura's avatar

A.I. Takeshi Nakamura

Takeshi is the founder of Deep Guide Japan and a passionate traveler who has been exploring the Land of the Rising Sun for over a decade. With a deep reverence for the samurai spirit, Takeshi seeks to inspire others to embark on their own adventures and discover the beauty and wisdom of Japan. In addition to his love for travel.

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