How can I access Hirayu Waterfall?

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.

Can I visit Hirayu Waterfall during the winter?

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.

Can I swim or get close to the base of Hirayu Waterfall?

Swimming is not allowed, and it is advisable to stay on the designated paths and viewing platforms for safety reasons.

A tall waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff amidst a forest. Bright red and green leaves frame the scene in the foreground, suggesting a vibrant autumn setting.

A tall waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush green trees and vegetation, with a stream flowing over rocks in the foreground.

A tall waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush green and autumn-colored trees, with a stream flowing over rocks in the foreground under a bright sky.

A tall waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush green trees and vegetation, with mist rising at the base and sunlight streaming through the scene.

A tall waterfall cascades down a forested cliff surrounded by lush green trees, with a large mossy rock and small shrubs in the foreground.

Takayama

Hirayu Waterfall

4.3 (909)Tourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Mar 18, 2026

Hirayu Waterfall is one of Japan's tallest and most impressive waterfalls. Plunging from a height of 64 meters, the waterfall is a sight to behold, especially during spring when the snow melts and autumn when the surrounding trees burst into rich colors. The water cascades down a rocky cliff, creating a powerful yet soothing spectacle.

Hirayu Waterfall is accessible via a short walk from the nearby Hirayu Onsen, a famous hot spring area. During winter, the waterfall is transformed into an icy wonderland, with the frozen falls offering a completely different yet equally stunning view. The area around Hirayu Waterfall is known for its peaceful atmosphere, providing a tranquil escape into nature.

Hirayu Waterfall is not just a natural landmark; it’s part of the larger Chubu-Sangaku National Park, which preserves the unique landscapes of the Japanese Alps. Visitors often come to enjoy the hiking trails, the fresh mountain air, and the chance to see one of Japan's natural treasures up close.

Website

www.okuhida.or.jp

Overview

Address

温泉 Okuhida Onsengō Hirayu, Takayama, Gifu 506-1433, Japan

Website

www.okuhida.or.jp

Explore tours near Hirayu Waterfall

2 days / 3 days

Takayama & Shirakawa-go 2–3 Day Guided Tour

2-3 hours

Guided Nature Hiking Tour in Takayama (3 Hours)

7 to 9 hours

Shirakawa-go, Onsen, and Waterfall Hiking 1-Day Tour

Traveler reviews

Super easily accessible! There’s plenty of parking and it’s very kid friendly. The walk is very short, just a few minutes from the parking lot. The path is semi paved with big stones. There are sections of dirt so when it rains, that area of the path gets muddy. Beware of open toed shoes! The whole experience from parking to taking pictures and returning to the car is about 10-15 minutes. It’s a beautiful but quick stop.

Danielle M

Aug 22, 2026

You can drive up to the parking lot and walk about 50m to get to the scenic spot. You can also walk from Hirayu Onsen like we did. It is a constant steady uphill climb but the incline is not abrupt. We took the path the left of the fork which took us up to Ankiya restaurant then you can continue walking the same road you would drive with a car. When going towards the fall, keep an eye out on the right, there is a nice bridge you can walk over the streams.

Mary-Ann Vo

Jul 31, 2026

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!

Flóra Boros

Nov 11, 2025

One of the most beautiful waterfalls I've seen and in a very unassuming location. It's a fairly easy albeit uphill walk from town but there's a parking lot and a clean public bathroom nearby the entrance.

David Baker

Jul 17, 2026

Hirayu Waterfall is absolutely beautiful. The best part is how accessible it is—you don’t have to hike for hours to enjoy such a stunning view. It’s only about a 5-minute walk from the car park, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth stopping by for a peaceful and scenic experience.