The boardwalk was broken so we couldn't get close to the waterfall, but it was a very beautiful place! It was slippery so I think it would be safer to bring walking sticks.
The trail is well-maintained, but there are some fallen trees and long pants are required. The sparsely populated nature of the area adds a sense of mystery and charm. Personally, I'm glad I went.
When you think of Shiretoko, you probably think of the Utoro side, with its Shiretoko Five Lakes and Oshinkoshin Falls, but the Rausu side is often overlooked.
This is a nice spot on the Rausu side, but it's not that popular because the entrance is hard to find.
Park your car in the parking lot beside the road and head up the mountain path.
Be careful as the road can get muddy and slippery after rain.
If you continue along the mountain path beside the river, you'll find the Kumachō Falls Observation Deck, but the trees here make it difficult to see the waterfall, so continue further.
If you go down to the river, you'll be able to see a magnificent waterfall.
In summer, it's also fun to take a bath in the river here.
However, it's likely that brown bears will appear here, so be sure to wear a bell and carry bear repellent spray just in case.
The hike to Kumagoe Falls is considered challenging and suitable primarily for experienced hikers. The trail is primitive and unmarked, requiring basic navigation skills and outdoor experience. The terrain is rough and winds through dense forest, making it unsuitable for casual walkers or families with young children. The 50-minute round-trip hike demands proper hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, and basic outdoor preparedness.
Access to Kumagoe Falls is highly weather-dependent and seasonal conditions significantly affect trail accessibility. The best visiting period is typically during the warmer months when snow has cleared and trail conditions are more manageable. Winter access is extremely challenging and potentially dangerous due to heavy snowfall common in the Shiretoko region. Visitors should check current trail conditions through the Rausu Visitor Center or Ministry of the Environment before attempting the hike.
No entrance fees are required to visit Kumagoe Falls, as it is located within the public wilderness area near Shiretoko Pass. However, since the waterfall is within the broader Shiretoko National Park ecosystem managed by Japan's Ministry of the Environment, visitors should respect all park regulations and Leave No Trace principles. No special permits are needed for day hiking to the falls.
Private vehicle access is essentially mandatory for reaching Kumagoe Falls. The trailhead is located near Shiretoko Pass, accessible by car from Rausu town center with parking available near the tunnel structure. Public transportation options are extremely limited in this remote area. The nearest reference point is the Rausu Visitor Center, which can help with navigation and current trail information.
Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, weather-appropriate layers, navigation tools (map and compass or GPS), plenty of water, and emergency supplies. Since the trail is unmarked and primitive, basic outdoor navigation skills are crucial. Bear awareness is important in this region, so consider carrying bear bells or spray. A first aid kit, headlamp, and extra food are recommended for safety in this remote wilderness setting where cell phone coverage may be unreliable.
