The waterfall is easily accessible by car or bus from Hirayu Onsen. A short 10-minute walk from the parking area leads to the viewing platform. Buses run regularly from Takayama and other nearby towns to Hirayu Onsen.
Yes, the waterfall is accessible during winter, and the frozen waterfall offers a unique and beautiful sight. However, the trail may be slippery due to ice and snow, so wearing appropriate footwear and exercising caution is recommended.
Swimming is not allowed, and it is advisable to stay on the designated paths and viewing platforms for safety reasons.
Traveler reviews
One of the most impressive waterfalls we saw in Japan so far! It is quite high, and had very powerful flow to it, as it just rained a few days before we went there. We visited after our hike in Kamikochi. It was close to our ryokan. Easily accessible, has a carpark and public toilets. It is a short walk away from the carpark. It is a very tall waterfall, in a very impressive and pretty nature setting. The autumn leaves were showing already in the area too. It is secluded and had many posters informing about bears so be careful!
Q a beautiful waterfall that one can drive all the way in, if not the walk looks like it can be quite a distance two way.
Tall and strong, quite majestic and zen in its own way.
This time snowing with nice view water falls.
We enjoyed there 2 hours with ours group.
Hirayu Waterfall (Hirayu Ōtaki) is one of the most impressive waterfalls. With a height of 64 meters and a width of 6 meters, it ranks among the highest waterfalls in the country and is listed as one of Japan’s “Top 100 Waterfalls” by the Ministry of the Environment.
According to a 450-year-old tale, a white monkey was seen emerging from behind the falls. Soldiers followed it and discovered the healing hot springs of Hirayu Onsen, which helped restore their strength after battle.
The waterfall is easily accessible from the Hirayu Onsen bus stop. It takes 10-minute walk from the parking (in front of the restaurant).
In mid-April 2025, the waterfall did not appear particularly impressive. Due to lingering snow, it was not possible to approach it closely.
We came here because our plans changed at the last minute and we're so glad we did! There was almost no one else around and the scene was beautiful. The water volume was probably at it's lowest (as it's fall) but the fall was still spectacular. The colors of the trees were also incredible. There's two parking lots close by that are very convenient. Very nice, highly recommend.
