Iwai Falls

Deep in the mountains of Kagamino in Tomata District, Okayama, within the Hyonosen Ushiroyama Nagisan Quasi National Park, Iwai Falls drops about ten meters with a width of six meters. Its greatest charm is that it is a cave like waterfall you can walk behind, passing beneath a massive rock face. Watching the curtain of water from the inside is a rare experience indeed.

A little downstream, a spring known as Meisui Iwai gushes forth, and in 1985 it was chosen as one of Japan finest hundred waters. The soft water is also cherished as water that blesses couples with children.

Highlights

- The rare experience of walking behind the falls. The space, wrapped in the sound of water and cool air, feels mysterious. - Meisui Iwai, chosen as one of the nations finest springs. Purifying your hands and taking a sip seems to clear the heart as well. - The roughly four hundred meter walking path from the parking lot to the falls. The forest trail laid with wood chips settles the mind just by walking it.

Enjoying the Seasons

From spring through summer the fresh greenery dazzles, and the spray and cool air act like a natural air conditioner, making it a popular summer retreat. In autumn the surrounding trees turn color for a fine pairing of foliage and falls. From December to late April there is snow, and entry requires proper gear, so visiting in snow free seasons is safest.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Nakatsugawa, Kamisaibara, Kagamino, Tomata District, Okayama - By car: from the Inno Interchange on the Chugoku Expressway, head north on Route 179 for about forty minutes, then turn onto Route 482 for about fifteen minutes to reach the parking lot. - From the parking lot it is about ten minutes on foot along the walking path. There are some steep stairs. - In winter the route may be impassable due to snow.

A Quick Tip

The walking path has steep stairs, so wear comfortable shoes. The footing behind the falls is wet and slippery, so proceed carefully. If you wish to take home the spring water, bringing an empty container is handy.