Senga Falls

Senga Falls hangs at the deepest point of Mitake Shosenkyo, a scenic gorge in Kofu City, Yamanashi. Dropping about 30 meters, this celebrated cascade was chosen among the finest waterfalls in Japan, and the spray of water rushing down the rock face fills the whole area with negative ions. The name Senga comes from a woman in Chinese myth who rose to the moon, and it is said to carry the meaning of a waterfall with the gentleness of the moon.

Beside the falls stands Shogyokudo, where a giant crystal ball and the deity Fudo Myoo are enshrined. True to Shosenkyo, long known as a source of crystal, the spot has been loved for blessings of warding off evil, purification, and rising fortune.

Highlights

- A powerful roughly 30-meter cascade chosen among the finest waterfalls in Japan - The healing of negative ions that fill the area around the basin - The giant crystal ball and Fudo Myoo enshrined at Shogyokudo - Blessings for warding off evil, purification, and rising fortune

Enjoying the Seasons

In spring fresh green colors the gorge and shines vividly against the white of the falls. In summer the spray brings coolness, perfect for escaping the heat. In autumn all of Shosenkyo turns to red and gold, and the falls and gorge reach their most brilliant scene of the year. In winter the air is clear and only the sound of the falls echoes through the quiet gorge.

Access and Basic Information

- Location: Takanari, Kofu City, Yamanashi - Access: By bus toward Shosenkyo from JR Kofu Station, getting off at the upper or lower falls stop - Parking: Use the lots around Shosenkyo - Admission: Free

A Quick Tip

The walking paths to the falls have many steps and slopes, so sturdy shoes are recommended. Pairing the visit with a stroll along the gorge lets you enjoy the odd rock formations and clear streams. The autumn leaf season is especially crowded, so an early morning is the best time.