Asahidaki Falls

Tucked into the forest of Shuzenji in Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Asahidaki sits quietly out of view. It is a tiered waterfall with a drop of about one hundred meters, sliding down the rock face and splitting into many steps. It was named Asahidaki, meaning morning sun falls, because it faces due east and gleams in the morning light. Although it lies only about four hundred meters from National Route 136, few people visit, making it a hidden spot where you can spend quiet, healing time wrapped in negative ions.

Highlights

- Basalt columnar joints appearing on the face of the falls, with clearly visible hexagonal cross sections, a geological marvel that is one of the highlights of the Izu Peninsula Geopark. - The delicate, beautiful expression of water splitting into many steps as it slides down the rock. - A site where the Takigenji temple of the Fuke sect once stood in the Edo period, where wandering monks called komuso trained while playing the shakuhachi. It is also said to be the birthplace of the shakuhachi masterpiece Takiotoshi no Kyoku. - Odai Shrine, standing right beside the falls, known as one of the premier power spots of Izu.

Enjoying the Seasons

In the fresh greenery season the morning sun filtering through young leaves and the spray of the falls sparkle together, offering the most beautiful view. In summer the deep shade and the sound of water bring coolness, making it ideal for escaping the heat. In autumn the contrast between the surrounding fall colors and the white flow of the falls is splendid. In winter visitors are few, and you can have the stillness all to yourself in the crisp air.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Odai, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture - Access: A short walk from along National Route 136. You can reach it by car from the direction of Shuzenji. - A walking path lets you approach right beside the falls, so you can feel the power of the water up close. - The footing can be wet, so non slip shoes are recommended.

A Quick Tip

Take a deep breath while bathed in the spray of the falls, and your body and mind will feel suddenly lighter. Combine it with a visit to Shuzenji Onsen for a full day of healing.