What are the Ginga & Ryusei Waterfalls known for?

The Ginga and Ryusei Waterfalls are known for their stunning beauty and unique twin waterfall formations. Ginga is often called the "Milky Way" waterfall due to its delicate, flowing streams, while Ryusei is known as the "Shooting Star" waterfall for its powerful, singular cascade.

What is the best time to visit the Ginga & Ryusei Waterfalls?

The best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the water flow is robust and the surrounding foliage is lush. Autumn offers beautiful fall colors, while winter provides a stunning view of the frozen falls.

Can I swim or get close to the Ginga & Ryusei Waterfalls?

Swimming is not allowed, and visitors are advised to stay on designated paths and viewing platforms for safety reasons and to preserve the natural environment.

What other attractions are nearby the Ginga & Ryusei Waterfalls?

Nearby attractions include the Sounkyo Onsen, a hot spring resort, and the Kurodake Ropeway, which offers spectacular views of the Daisetsuzan mountain range.

Is there an entrance fee for visiting the Ginga & Ryusei Waterfalls?

No, there is no entrance fee to visit the waterfalls. They are part of the Daisetsuzan National Park, which is open to the public.

Hokkaido

Ginga & Ryusei Waterfalls

4.3 (1378)Scenic SpotTourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated May 24, 2026

Ginga and Ryusei Waterfalls in Hokkaido's Sounkyo Gorge are nature's masterpieces. The Ginga Waterfall, often called the "Milky Way," has delicate streams flowing down like silver threads. Nearby, the Ryusei Waterfall, known as the "Shooting Star," plunges with force, creating a powerful display.

These waterfalls stand about 90 meters tall and offer spectacular views all year. In spring and summer, they're surrounded by lush greenery, enhancing their beauty. Autumn transforms the area with brilliant reds and yellows, making the scene even more striking. Winter adds a magical touch as the falls can partially freeze, creating an icy wonderland.

Visitors can access these falls easily. The observation deck provides a perfect spot to soak in the views. The roar of the water, the crisp mountain air, and the stunning visuals create a memorable experience. The falls are part of the Daisetsuzan National Park, Japan's largest national park, known for its hiking trails and hot springs.

Sounkyo Gorge itself is a treasure. It’s carved by the Ishikari River, with towering cliffs and unique rock formations. The gorge is a favorite for hikers, offering trails with breathtaking views at every turn. The hot springs in the area are perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring.

Ginga and Ryusei Waterfalls aren't just stunning sights; they’re a testament to the beauty and power of nature. Each waterfall has its own character, the gentle elegance of Ginga and the dynamic force of Ryusei. Together, they provide a perfect blend of tranquility and excitement, making them a must-visit in Hokkaido.

Overview

Address

Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 078-1701, Japan

Places & attractions near Ginga & Ryusei Waterfalls

Sounkyo Gorge

A vibrant landscape featuring a clear blue sky with fluffy clouds, a small lake reflecting the sky, and green hills covered with patches of red and yellow foliage, with distant mountains in the background.

Mount Asahidake

Large icicles and thick ice formations hang from a cave ceiling, illuminated with soft pastel lights in shades of pink, orange, blue, and green, creating a magical, surreal atmosphere.

Hokkaido Ice Pavilion

Close-up of several bottles of red wine stored horizontally in a wooden wine rack, with their red foil tops facing outward. The image is softly focused, highlighting the bottles and rack rows.

Furano Winery

Places & attractions near Ginga & Ryusei Waterfalls

Sounkyo Gorge

Mount Asahidake

Hokkaido Ice Pavilion

Furano Winery

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

The waterfall has turned completely white. It’s a different kind of beauty. A huge thanks to the kind Japanese gentleman who warned me that it’s very slippery at the top and advised not to climb up. So thoughtful and kind.

Sasi A

Mar 10, 2026

Nothing much to do here except climb the observatory deck and visit the gift shop, and taking quick photos of the falls. If you don't want to climb the observatory deck, just go along the footpath adjacent to the carpark, viewpoints for both waterfalls are visible from the footpath

A great and majestic vista , I recommend taking a short hike up hill ( moderate climb ) for the best photo opp ( remember to take care of bears )

We were fortunate to have seen deers grazing on the side of the road on our drive to Ryusei Waterfall. Beautiful waterfall cascading down the Mountain terrain. It's definitely worth stopping for.

Waterfalls near Daizetsuzan sunkyo ropeway, Kurodake mountain. It is 3 km away from ropeway. No public transport is available. You can walk through Ishikari riversite and can reach waterfalls.