Highlights and access methods of Nachi Falls (Wakayama Prefecture)
In this article, we will explain the attractions of Nachi Falls in Wakayama Prefecture and how to access it for those who are traveling to Japan from overseas.
(Last modified: )
(Prefecture : Wakayama , Category : Nature and Scenic Spots)
Table of contents
About Nachi Falls
Nachi Falls, standing at 133 meters, is a stunning natural sight in Wakayama, Japan. Its status as the country's tallest waterfall with a single drop lends it an awe-inspiring grandeur. The waterfall is adjacent to the Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the three Grand Shrines of Kumano, and the Seiganto-ji Temple, creating a serene and spiritually uplifting landscape. The site is beautiful throughout the year, but the autumn foliage season, when the leaves turn vibrant colors, adds an extra layer of magic. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from exploring the shrine and temple to simply relaxing in the beautiful surroundings.
Highlights of Nachi Falls
Nachi Falls, located in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, is one of the most awe-inspiring natural sights in the country. Standing at 133 meters, it's the country's tallest waterfall with a single drop, and its grandeur is simply mesmerizing. The waterfall is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range, adding a layer of historical and cultural significance to its natural beauty.
The waterfall is not just a stunning sight but also holds great religious importance. Adjacent to the waterfall is the Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the three Grand Shrines of Kumano, often referred to as the "pure land" in Buddhist tradition. The combination of the shrine's traditional architecture and the majestic waterfall creates a breathtaking landscape that is both serene and spiritually uplifting.
The Seiganto-ji Temple, which stands next to the Grand Shrine, adds to the area's spiritual atmosphere. This three-story pagoda overlooks the waterfall, providing an iconic view that perfectly captures the blend of nature and spirituality that characterizes this area. The site is beautiful throughout the year, but it becomes even more magical during the autumn foliage season when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
The waterfall and its surrounding attractions offer a range of activities for visitors. You can take a leisurely stroll along the Daimonzaka, a cobblestone path lined with centuries-old cedar trees, visit the shrine and temple to learn about Japanese religious practices, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Address and access method of Nachi Falls
The address of Nachi Falls is: Nachisan, Nachikatsuura, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture 649-5301, Japan.
The nearest station to Nachi Falls is Kii-Katsuura Station on the JR Kisei Main Line. From the station, you can take a bus to Nachisan, which is a short walk from the waterfall.
Attractions near Nachi Falls
Several other attractions near Nachi Falls are worth exploring:
Kumano Kodo
This network of ancient pilgrimage routes, also part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, offers beautiful hiking opportunities through the mountains of the Kii Peninsula.
Daimonzaka
A cobblestone path lined with centuries-old cedar trees that leads to the Nachi Falls. The path offers a serene and scenic walk.
Kii-Katsuura
A small town known for its hot springs and the bustling fish market, one of the largest in Japan for tuna.
Other information about Nachi Falls
Official site (Japanse only) about Nachi Falls :
https://www.wakayama-kanko.or.jp/spots/25/
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Thank you for reading to the end.
( Written by Tatsuo Ikura )
