At a glance
Located in Yamakita, Kanagawa Prefecture, Shasui Falls is a majestic three-tiered waterfall featuring a 69-meter main cascade. The natural attraction offers wooded hiking trails, a ceremonial July festival, and spring water collection points. A 226-step stairway leads to an observation deck providing panoramic views.
Photographs
Shasui Falls
Shasui Falls (洒水の滝), one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, is a graceful three-tiered cascade on the Tanzawa River in Yamakita, Kanagawa. Its name blends the Buddhist idea of “purification with sacred water” and an old reading hinting at “wine”, perhaps inspired by the sweet-tasting spring nearby.
The waterfall plunges in three steps: 69m, 16m, and 29m, totaling around 90m, with the main drop dominating the amphitheater-like valley. It sits within the grounds of Saishō-ji Temple and has been a pilgrimage site for yamabushi and ascetic monks since the Kamakura period. It’s said that the famous monk Mongaku underwent a 100-day seclusion here, and Saishō-ji still houses the “Waterfall Fudō” statue tied to his practices.
A well-paved 800m forest stroll from the parking area includes multiple platforms and a recent observation deck reached by 226 steps, offering sweeping views of all three drops. Along the path, you’ll find a sweet spring fountain, celebrating one of Japan’s 100 Famous Waters, perfect for sipping or brewing tea.
Please note, the iconic red bridge and basin area remain closed due to a past rockfall that damaged the trail, but the upper vantage point still captures their dramatic beauty. A cafe en route offers coffee brewed with waterfall spring water, and it only takes about 10 to 15 minutes from the lot.
Each July’s Shasui Falls Festival, held on the fourth Sunday, includes a communal trail-clearing ceremony led by priests and locals, marking the start of the waterfall season. The area is well cared for, with free parking, toilets, and clear signs, though the terrain includes stairs, so wear good shoes.
Before you go
Trail is mostly paved with stairs, comfortable walking shoes are a must. Toilets and clear signage are available along the path. Tripods are allowed at observation decks but avoid blocking other visitors. While the iconic red bridge itself is currently closed for crossing due to safety concerns, visitors can still walk up to the bridge for views and photos. A small café along the trail serves coffee brewed with spring water.
Site is open year-round, though exact times align with daylight hours (roughly 7 AM to 5 PM). The annual Shasui Falls Festival takes place on the fourth Sunday of July, featuring trail-clearing rituals, prayers, taiko drums, and seasonal celebrations.
When to go
Summer brings vibrant greenery and refreshing mist from the falls, while autumn paints the surrounding forest in brilliant colors. July features the annual Shasui Falls Festival, where locals perform traditional path-sweeping ceremonies. Early mornings offer the most serene experience, with fewer visitors and optimal lighting for photography. Weekday visits between 8 AM and 10 AM provide the best balance of good visibility and peaceful atmosphere.
Average crowd levels throughout the day, based on historical data.
Public review summary
Visitors consistently praise the waterfalls impressive height and natural beauty while appreciating the well-maintained promenade and peaceful atmosphere. The soothing sound of falling water and negative ions create a refreshing experience. Some note difficulties with the 226-step climb to the observation deck, and occasional disappointment about restricted access to the waterfall basin due to safety concerns. The spring water and surrounding nature trails receive positive mentions.
What you'll find here
Location & access
- DirectionsAddress
Japan, 〒258-0114 Kanagawa, Ashigarakami District, Yamakita, 山北町平山
- How to get there
By Public Transportation:
From JR Gotemba Line’s Yamakita Station, it’s about a 35-minute walk to the falls. Alternatively, take the Yamakita Town Circulation Bus (山北町内循環バス) and get off at Hirayama (平山)—from there, it’s roughly a 10-minute walk to the trailhead. Buses are limited, so check schedules in advance, walking is most reliable.
By Car:
Drive to Hirayama, Yamakita Town (Ashigarakami District) in Kanagawa. There is ample free parking near the entrance. From the lot, it’s a short flat walk leading to an 800-meter forest trail, which includes 226 steps up to the main observation deck.
Common questions
How do I get to Shasui Falls from the nearest parking lot?
The falls are about a 10-minute walk from the free parking lots. There are two parking areas available - a small main lot and a bus parking area. Follow the well-maintained pedestrian path along the river to reach the waterfall viewing areas.
Can visitors get close to the waterfall basin?
Currently, the red bridge and path to the waterfall basin are closed due to falling rock hazards. However, visitors can view the falls from an observation deck accessed via 226 steps, offering an impressive elevated perspective of the three-tiered waterfall.
Is there a fee to visit Shasui Falls?
Shasui Falls is completely free to visit, including parking and access to all viewing areas. The observation deck and walking paths are open to the public at no charge, making it an accessible natural attraction in Kanagawa Prefecture.
What facilities are available at the site?
The site offers basic amenities including free parking, public toilets, and walking paths. There is also a spring water collection point near the falls and sometimes local vendors sell agricultural products. A small cafe nearby serves coffee made with treated waterfall water.
When is the annual Shasui Falls Festival held?
The Shasui Falls Festival takes place on the fourth Sunday of July each year. During this special event, there is a traditional ceremony involving the ceremonial sweeping of the paths leading to the waterfall.
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