Ogawa Falls

Ogawa Falls lies on the upper reaches of the Ogawa River in the southern part of the Osumi Peninsula in Minamiosumi, Kagoshima. It is a powerful waterfall about 46 meters tall and 60 meters wide. Its greatest attraction is the way groundwater seeps out from all over the rock face while the plunge pool glows emerald green. Although it has become known as a filming location for television dramas and movies, it lies at the end of a walking trail and remains a quiet, healing power spot where you can face nature alone.

Highlights

- The clear emerald green plunge pool. The vivid color is said to appear most easily when fine weather continues and the flow is low. - A landscape found nowhere else, with countless streams of groundwater pouring from columnar jointed rock. - A walking trail of about 1.2 kilometers leading to the pool. You can stroll along enjoying the clear stream of the gorge and the songs of birds. - The full view of the falls from the observation point is also impressive.

Enjoying the Seasons

From the fresh green of spring into summer, the spray of the falls and the negative ions refresh both body and mind. Autumn brings the colored leaves of the gorge, and winter offers a quiet waterfall scene in the clear air. After rain the flow increases and the falls grow more powerful, but the colored pool is best aimed for during a run of fine weather.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Kawakita, Nejime, Minamiosumi-cho, Kimotsuki District, Kagoshima - By car: about 20 minutes from the town center of Nejime, parking available for about 70 cars - It is about a 1.2 kilometer walk one way along the trail to the pool - The trail has rough patches in places, so sturdy shoes are recommended

A Quick Tip

If you are aiming for the emerald green of the pool, the ideal time is when the flow is low after several days of fine weather. The trail is a fair distance, so bring a drink and allow plenty of time for your visit.