Nametaki Falls

In the hills of Nishifutamatamachi in Wajima, Nametaki Falls is a scenic cascade where two streams draw together like a married couple and merge into one. The stream flowing from Ueyamamachi is called the female falls and the one flowing from Komachi the male falls, and each reaches about 35 meters in height. The beauty of their embrace gave the falls their name, and it is a prefecturally designated scenic site of Ishikawa, a hidden healing spot.

Highlights

• The sight of two streams drawing together into one, cherished by those wishing for harmony in marriage and good relationships
• The chain of potholes at the point where the streams meet, some as deep as 2.5 meters, and unusual rock formations where the side walls have eroded into a natural bridge
• A hidden cherry blossom spot. In spring petals of Somei Yoshino cherry dance against the backdrop of the falls

Enjoying the Seasons

Spring offers a splendid duet of falls and cherry blossoms, with petals dancing over the water in an exceptional scene. Summer draws those seeking cool air, and a walk bathed in fresh negative ions feels pleasant. Autumn colors and the quiet face of the falls in winter each carry their own charm.

Access and Basic Information

• Location: Nishifutamatamachi, Wajima, Ishikawa
• Access: About 35 minutes by car from the Noto Mii interchange on the Noto Satoyama Kaido, or about 35 minutes from central Wajima on Prefectural Route 38 toward Osawa. A roadside parking area named Yorimichi Parking Nametaki sits right beside the falls
• Hours: Open freely
• Admission: Free

Practical Travel Notes

• A short walking path leads to the falls. The footing can be wet and slippery from spray or rain, so comfortable shoes are recommended
• Following the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake, transport across the Noto area is still recovering. The local bus route that once served the falls has been suspended during parts of this period, and reaching the site by public transport remains difficult. Always confirm the latest road and transport conditions before setting out
• There are few facilities for meals or shopping nearby, so preparing drinks and light snacks in advance brings peace of mind
• The cherry blossom season is especially popular, so an early morning visit lets you enjoy it in quiet

A Quick Tip

The far reaches of Noto take time to travel, so plan with plenty of margin. This is also a region still on the road to recovery, so visit quietly and with consideration for the local community.

📚 Sources

This article is based on tourism guidance for Wajima City, where Nametaki Falls is located, public information on the Ishikawa Prefecture-designated scenic site, and Noto road and traffic information. Owing to the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake, Noto's transport is still recovering, and route buses are suspended in some periods. Viewing hours, fees, and access may change, so be sure to check the latest road and traffic information before setting out.

Visitor Checklist

• Time needed: Allow about 30 minutes for the short round-trip path and viewing, or a full day combined with a far-Noto tour.
• What to bring: The path to the falls is short and gets slippery from spray or rain, so wear comfortable shoes. Facilities for meals and shopping are scarce nearby, so bring drinks and light snacks in advance.
• Suggested route: Park at the Nametaki roadside pull-off, walk the path, and view the two streams merging side by side and the potholes. Early morning is quiet in cherry-blossom season.
• Check in advance: Visiting by public transport remains difficult for now. Come by car and check the latest traffic information.