Yonako Falls

Hanging deep in the mountains of Suzaka City, Yonako Falls is a grand pair of cascades, the 89-meter Fudo Falls and the 82-meter Gongen Falls side by side. Long held to be a place of purification in the worship of Mount Azumaya, the falls themselves have been revered as sacred. As a training ground of mountain asceticism, Fudo Myoo is enshrined here, and the Yonako Fudo inner sanctuary at the foot of the falls is a power spot known to those in the know. Chosen among Japans top 100 waterfalls, the surrounding area is also designated a national place of scenic beauty.

Highlights

- The grand two-tiered scene of the 89-meter Fudo Falls and the 82-meter Gongen Falls hanging side by side. - The sacred air of a place of purification in the worship of Mount Azumaya, where the falls themselves are the sacred body. - The Yonako Fudo inner sanctuary, enshrining Fudo Myoo as a training ground of mountain asceticism. - The feel of a deep-mountain hidden retreat, approached on foot along a maintained trail.

Enjoying the Seasons

In the fresh-green season the mountains are lush and the walk toward the falls in the crisp air is delightful. In autumn the surrounding peaks turn beautiful colors, and the pairing of the twin falls with the foliage is breathtaking. Summer is ideal for a waterfall outing in search of cool relief. The site is closed from late November into spring, so mind the timing of your visit.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Yonako, Suzaka City, Nagano - Access: About 50 minutes to the parking area from the Suzaka-Nagano-Higashi IC on the Joshin-etsu Expressway; about 1 hour on foot each way along the trail from the parking area to the falls - Hours: Closed in winter - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

The forest road to the parking area is narrow and not passable by large vehicles. The walk to the falls is about an hour each way on a trail, so prepare comfortable shoes and drinks. There are no shops or vending machines nearby, so bringing food and drink in advance will set your mind at ease.