Fukiware Falls in Numata City, Gunma Prefecture.
This is one of my favorite places that I find myself visiting over and over again.
Though it's known as the "Niagara of the East," Fukiware Falls looks a little different from your typical waterfall.
Rather than water plunging straight down, its defining feature is the way the water spreads horizontally, cascading into massive fissures carved into the riverbed.
It stands 7 meters high and spans 30 meters wide. This unique landscape was formed over countless years as the Katashina River eroded the riverbed, creating numerous cracks in the softer sections of the rock.
It is said to be named "Fukiware Falls" (literally "split-blown falls") because it looks as if a giant rock has been violently split open.
And the charm of Fukiware Falls isn't limited to the waterfall itself.
The surrounding area includes Masutobi Falls, Hannya Rock, Lion Rock, Ukishima Kannon Temple, Ukishima Bridge, and various observation decks. You can enjoy the beauty of the entire canyon while strolling along the walking trails.
One of the biggest draws is how the scenery transforms with the seasons.
The coming season brings the autumn leaves 🍁. According to Numata City's official records, the peak foliage is usually from late October to early November.
Offering a different vibe from the current lush green landscape, you can enjoy the striking contrast between the autumn colors, the white rushing water, and the dark bedrock.
From the fresh greenery of spring and the clear streams of summer to the fiery leaves of autumn, Fukiware Falls shows a different face every season.
No matter how many times you visit, it’s a place where you can always discover scenery unique to that specific moment in time.
《Spot Information》
🏞️ Fukiware Falls
📍 Tone-machi Okkai, Numata City, Gunma Prefecture
🚗 Access
About 25 minutes (approx. 16km) from the "Numata IC" on the Kan-etsu Expressway toward Oze via Route 120.
🚌 Public Transportation
About 45 minutes by bus bound for Kamada from JR Numata Station.
Get off at "Fukiware-no-taki" and walk for about 3 minutes.
🎫 Admission
Free
🕘 Viewing
The walking trails are closed at night.
🚫 Winter Closure
Usually from mid-December to late March.
🅿️ Parking
Free and paid parking lots available in the vicinity.