- 3 min read

Shiraito Falls and Obinmizu

Magical waterfall in Fujinomiya

There are several waterfalls in Japan that bear the name of Shiraito (which means white thread). This summer I visited Shiraito Falls in Fujinomiya. Otodome Falls is nearby, so you can easily visit both at the same time, and also there is a small pool of pure water like the ones at Oshino Hakko.

Car parking for visitors

We arrived fairly early in the morning, about 8:30 am, which was probably a good thing judging by the number of large car parks near the falls. Most of them had signs saying the parking fee was 300 yen. However they were mostly empty, and when we pulled into one, there was nobody to take our money. We locked up the car and started along the trail to the falls.

<p>The paths are well signposted and easy to follow</p>
The paths are well signposted and easy to follow

Magical valley of waterfalls

I was traveling with a Japanese friend who had been to Niagra Falls, and when I asked him whether Shiraito Falls was good, he said it was "so-so". I was therefore not expecting too much, but the first glimpse of the falls took my breath away. Framed by the trees beside the trail hundreds of narrow falls like white ropes tumbled down a rocky cliff running the length of the valley. At the head of the valley a wider fall with a greater volume of water fell into a small pool. It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen!

<p>Shiraito Falls is the most beautiful waterfall I have ever seen</p>
Shiraito Falls is the most beautiful waterfall I have ever seen

Butterflies

As we descended the trail, a fine spray from the falls cooled the summer air, and scores of butterflies flitted over the slope, adding to the magical atmosphere. There were big black swallowtail butterflies, white sulphur butterflies, and a few iridescent blue butterflies. I wonder if the butterflies are attracted by food sources or the cool, moist atmosphere?

<p>A butterfly sips nectar from flowers near the waterfall</p>
A butterfly sips nectar from flowers near the waterfall

River

The river flows from the pool at the head of the valley along a shallow rocky bed, gathering water from the many narrow falls as it goes. Swimming in the pool or playing in the river here is not allowed because this place is considered sacred by the Shinto sect that worships Mount Fuji. A bridge crosses the river below the falls and is an ideal spot to take a photo.

<p>A shallow, rocky river collects the water</p>
A shallow, rocky river collects the water

Mount Fuji View

I would like to return to Shiraito Falls in Autumn, because when the air is clear you can see Mount Fuji behind the falls. There is a photo in the car park of the scene, all the maple trees aflame with autumn colors, and the sacred mountain towering in the background. Unfortunately the sky and the mountain were hidden by a grey haze, as often happens in summer.

Obinmizu Pool

On our way back to the car park we turned of the trail followed a path down to a small pool surrounded by rocks. although not easy to climb down to, the water is pure and delicious, and you can safely drink it. The water in the pond comes from snow melt on Mount Fuji, welling up from the ground after filtering through porous lava layers over many years.

<p>Obinmizu Pool has pure drinking quality water</p>
Obinmizu Pool has pure drinking quality water

Bus access

Beautiful Shiraito Falls is well worth visiting. If you can't drive there, you can take a bus from Shin-Fuji Station, Fujinomiya Station, or Kawaguchiko. Maybe I'll see you there in autumn!

More info

Find out more about Shiraito Falls.

3
4
Was this article helpful?
Help us improve the site
Give Feedback

Join the discussion

Sleiman Azizi 2 years ago
Bucket list time!
Sleiman Azizi 2 years ago
Bucket list time!
Elena Lisina 5 years ago
Cathy, how long (aproximately) the visit to Shiraito Falls may take if to go from Fujinomiya station? I mean the way there, observing the place and the way back. I plan a visit and need to clear the requied time. it looks like very beautifl place, indded. Also, I wonder if there are gnuts in summer time?
Elena Lisina 5 years ago
Beautiful nature and wonderful shots, Cathy!

Thank you for your support!

Your feedback has been sent.