What makes Harajiri Falls unique compared to other waterfalls in Japan?

It is 120 meters wide and 20 meters high, horseshoe-shaped, and sits in flat farmland. It is listed among Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls and nicknamed the "Niagara Falls of Japan."

What is there to do at the falls?

Cross the 90-meter Takimi-bashi suspension bridge, walk the circular path to the basin, visit the nearby 5-arch Harajiri Bridge (1923), and eat at the roadside station serving Dango Jiru and Kabosu soft-serve ice cream.

Are there local festivals at Harajiri Falls?

Yes. Notable events include the Oita Ogata Tulip Festival in April, the Kodai Himatsuri Festival in May, and the Kawagoshi Matsuri in November.

What is the best season to visit Harajiri Falls?

The falls are open year-round. Spring brings cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn produces vivid foliage. Water flow is strongest after heavy rain; post-rainy season visits may see a reduced flow.

Can bicycles be rented at the falls?

Yes. Rental bicycles are available at the roadside station, allowing visitors to explore the surrounding countryside, shrines, and stone Buddha statues at a relaxed pace.

Harajiri Falls, Bungo-ono, Oita - Trip To Japan

Oita

Harajiri Falls, Bungo-ono

4.3 (6421)Scenic SpotTourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated May 16, 2026

Harajiri Falls owes its dramatic form to the massive eruption of Mt. Aso approximately 90,000 years ago. The pyroclastic flow that resulted cooled and hardened into columnar rock formations, which were gradually eroded by the Ogata River to produce the wide, horseshoe-shaped cascade visible today. The falls sit on the Ogata Plain within Oita Prefecture in southern Kyushu, and have been designated one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls by the Ministry of the Environment, as well as one of Oita Prefecture's Top 100 Scenic Spots.

The falls measure approximately 20 meters high and 120 meters wide, and their horseshoe shape — set against the surrounding flatlands — has earned them the nickname the "Niagara Falls of Japan." Unlike many waterfalls tucked away in mountain valleys, Harajiri sits in the middle of open farmland, surrounded by rice paddies and rural fields, making the sight of a large waterfall appearing out of the countryside a genuinely distinctive experience.

Visitors can cross the wooden suspension bridge for a frontal view of the full cascade, then follow a circular walking path that leads above the falls and down to the basin below, where the mist and sound of the water create a close and immersive encounter. The suspension bridge, known as Takimi-bashi, stretches 90 meters in length and sways noticeably underfoot. Swimming in the basin is not permitted.

A 73-meter stone arch bridge known as Harajiri Bridge, built in 1923 with 5 arches, stands 500 meters upstream and is worth a short detour. At the adjacent roadside station, visitors can dine on regional specialties including Dango Jiru (dumpling soup) and try Kabosu soft-serve ice cream, made from a citrus fruit native to Oita Prefecture.

Entry to Harajiri Falls is completely free, with no admission fee required. The falls are located at 410 Ogatamachi Harajiri, Bungoono, Oita, approximately 3 km (about 20 minutes on foot) from Ogata Station on the JR Hohi Line. From Oita Station, the train journey to Bungomori Station takes roughly one hour, from where a local bus or taxi can be arranged, though services are infrequent. Renting a car is the most practical option, as public transport connections to the falls are limited.

Phone

+81 974-42-4140

Website

www.ogatakanko.com

Overview

Address

410 Ogatamachi Harajiri, Bungoono, Oita 879-6631, Japan

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

The "Niagara of the East" in Oita I visited Harajiri Falls on a hot summer weekend, July 18, 2026, and it was an unforgettable stop during my Kyushu road trip. Harajiri Falls is one of Kyushu's most spectacular natural attractions and is often called the "Niagara of the East." Located in the peaceful countryside of Bungo-Ono, Oita Prefecture, this impressive waterfall stretches about 120 meters wide with a 20-meter drop, creating a breathtaking panoramic view. It has also been selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls. One of the best parts of visiting is walking across the suspension bridge, where you can enjoy an incredible view of the entire waterfall from above. You can also walk down to the riverbank to experience the powerful roar of the cascading water up close. The contrast between the lush green countryside and the massive waterfall makes it feel like a hidden oasis. Right next to the falls is a roadside station where you can take a break, enjoy local specialties, buy fresh produce and souvenirs, or treat yourself to ice cream after exploring. There is also plenty of parking, making it an easy stop during a Kyushu road trip. Whether you're a photographer, nature lover, or simply looking for a scenic stop, Harajiri Falls is definitely worth visiting. Photos and videos are beautiful, but they still don't fully capture the power and scale of seeing this magnificent waterfall in person.

Benz Hue

Jul 23, 2026

Harajiri Falls is one of the most impressive natural sights in Kyushu and is often called the “Niagara of the East.” Located in the quiet countryside of Oita Prefecture. The torii gate sitting in the river is a beautiful sight. Visitors can enjoy the falls from several viewpoints, including a suspension bridge that provides a fantastic panoramic view of the entire waterfall and the surrounding farmland. Walking paths and small shops nearby make it an easy and relaxing place to explore while enjoying the scenery. Whether you stop for photos or take time to walk around the area, Harajiri Falls is a peaceful and memorable destination that highlights the natural beauty of rural Japan.

On our drive from Beppu to Kumamoto, we made a pleasant stop at Harajiri Falls. The location is really relaxing and scenic. You can enjoy the beautiful waterfall, walk across the suspension bridge, and there’s even space below where kids can play with the pebbles and stones. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take a short break from driving. If you’re heading from Beppu to Kumamoto next time, I recommend stopping by Harajiri Falls for a refreshing pause.

Cool waterfall, you can go down to the bottom and skip rocks. There also seem to be small sightseeing boat tours too. If you walk along the top of the waterfall towards the stairs on the otherside, you can get a really good view of the falls too. There's also a cool bridge that goes across it where you can get a good view. Interesting things at the michinoeki (road side station) too!

Beautiful site. Can look out for rainbow to add colour to tour photograph. Pleasant walk around and up and down.