Nachi Waterfall: Japan's Tallest Uninterrupted Cascade
Witness the awe-inspiring Nachi Waterfall, Japan's tallest single-drop cascade, a sacred site nestled in the Kii Mountain Range.
Nachi Waterfall, located in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, is the country's tallest waterfall with a single, uninterrupted drop of 133 meters. Revered as a sacred site, it has been a place of worship for centuries and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, 'Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range'.
A brief summary to Nachi Waterfall
- Nachisan, Nachikatsuura, Nachisan, Higashimuro District, Wakayama, 649-5301, JP
- +81735-55-0321
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the stone steps around the waterfall and to nearby shrines and temples.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the serene atmosphere of the falls.
- Purchase a ticket to the viewing platform for an unobstructed view of Nachi Falls.
- Check the schedule for the Nachi Fire Festival in July for a spectacular cultural experience.
- Take a moment to appreciate the blend of Shinto and Buddhist traditions at the nearby Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine and Seiganto-ji Temple.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From JR Kii-Katsuura Station, take the Kumano Gobo Nankai Bus bound for Nachisan. Alight at the 'Nachi Falls' bus stop, approximately a 26-minute ride. From the bus stop, it is a short 5-minute walk to Nachi Waterfall. The bus fare is around ¥630 for adults and ¥320 for children.
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Walking
For a more immersive experience, consider walking a portion of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. A popular option is the Daimonzaka trail, a 600-meter stone-paved stairway through a forest of ancient trees. From the Daimonzaka bus stop, it's a 5-minute walk to Nachi Falls. Be aware that the moss-covered paving stones can be slippery.
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Driving
If driving, head towards Nachi Falls (Nachi no Taki). Paid parking is available near the waterfall. Note that there may be a toll of ¥800 to access the road to Seiganto-ji Temple parking lot. From the parking area, it's a short walk to the falls. Be aware that parking may be limited.
Discover more about Nachi Waterfall
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kumano-Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine Hall of Worship
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Kumano Kodo - Nakahechi Daimon-saka Pilgrim Route
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Koguchi shizen-no-ie
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Kumano Hongu Heritage Center
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Kumano Kodo Guides
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Akagi Castle Ruins
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Unmissable attractions to see
Seiganto-ji
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Kumano-Nachi Taisha
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Kumano-Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine Homotsu-den Treasure Hall
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Koyazaka Slope
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Kamikura Shrine
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Kumano-Kodo Shimizu-toge Pass
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Oyunohara
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Essential places to dine
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Tororoya
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Moudemochi
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Nachisan Sightseeing Center
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Daimonzaka Chaya
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Sansaro Cafe
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ガラス屋・茶房「靖」
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Iseya
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Road Station Oku-kumanokodo Hongu
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Hashiori-jaya
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
割烹BAR = EL CAMINO DEL POETA =
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THE SAILING BAR
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