Nachi Falls, Japan

Nachi Falls

WakayamaJapan

Why You'll Love Nachi Falls

Yo yo yo! Are you ready for an epic adventure in Japan? Check out Nachi Falls, fam! This place is straight-up stunning.

Located in Wakayama Prefecture, Nachi Falls is known as one of the most spiritual sites in Japan. The waterfall is actually part of a holy complex which includes the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine. The waterfall itself towers over 133 meters, making it the tallest waterfall in Japan, and it dumps into the glistening blue waters below.

In ancient times, Nachi Falls was believed to be occupied by dragons and other mythical creatures. But don't worry, fam, today it's super safe to visit. You can even take a hike up to the top of the falls for some seriously breathtaking views. If you're feeling extra adventurous, try soaking in one of the nearby hot springs. It's the perfect way to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

So what are you waiting for, squad? Add Nachi Falls to your Japan bucket list and get ready to be amazed. These waters are calling your name!

Getting to Nachi Falls

From Tokyo, take the JR Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen to Kyoto station. From Kyoto, take the Kuroshio Limited Express train to Kii-Katsuura station. From Kii-Katsuura station, take the bus to Nachi Falls. The whole trip takes around 6-7 hours. Alternatively, you can take a direct flight from Tokyo to Nanki-Shirahama Airport, and then take a bus or taxi to Nachi Falls.

The closest city to Nachi Falls is Shirahama, in Wakayama.

Travelling from Kansai International Airport to Nachi Falls

When to Visit

The best time to visit Nachi Falls in Japan is during autumn (October/November) when the surrounding nature is at its most beautiful with red and yellow leaves, and the weather is cool and mild. Winter (December-February) is also a good time to visit for the frozen waterfalls and snow-covered landscapes. Avoid visiting during the rainy season which occurs in June and July.

Weather and Climate

Nachi Falls, Japan experiences a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters. The weather is typically warmest in August and coldest in January. In summer, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F) while in winter, temperatures may drop to 5°C (41°F). The rainy season in Nachi Falls starts in June and lasts until early July, with typhoons occasionally hitting the area in late summer and fall. Snowfall is rare in the area, but it is possible to see some snow in January and February.

Costs When Visiting

In Japan, the currency is the Japanese yen.
Some sample costs when travelling around Nachi Falls are:

- Food:
- Ramen noodles: ¥500-¥1000 (US$4.50-$9)
- Sushi: ¥1500-¥3000 (US$13-$27)
- Bento box: ¥500-¥1000 (US$4.50-$9)

- Accommodation:
- Budget hostel: ¥2500-¥4500 per night (US$23-$41)
- Mid-range hotel: ¥8000-¥12000 per night (US$73-$109)
- Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn): ¥15000-¥25000 per night (US$136-$227)

Safety Rating

Nachi Falls is considered a safe destination. Crime rates in Japan are relatively low compared to other countries, and incidents of violence or theft are rare. Women should feel relatively safe when traveling alone, and there are laws in place to protect against sexual harassment and assault. Japan has made significant strides in promoting racial and LGBTQ tolerance, and discrimination is not widely tolerated. Therefore, Nachi Falls is a great destination for travelers.

Local Population

The population of the Nachi Falls area is relatively small, with a total population of approximately 4,500 people. Most residents are of Japanese ethnicity and speak Japanese as their primary language. The predominant religion in the area is Buddhism, with several Buddhist temples and shrines located in the vicinity of the falls. The gender ratio of the population is relatively balanced, with slightly more females than males. As for race, the majority of the population is Japanese with very few other ethnicities living in the area.

Things to Do

Some of the activities that are common for tourists at Nachi Falls in Japan are:

1. Admiring the waterfall: Nachi Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in Japan and is considered to be a sacred site by the Japanese. Tourists can enjoy the view of the waterfall from the observation decks or take a boat ride to get a closer look.

2. Visiting the Nachi Shrine: The Nachi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located near the waterfall. Visitors can learn about the history of the shrine and participate in rituals such as purification or prayer.

3. Hiking: There are several hiking trails near Nachi Falls that offer stunning views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape. A popular trail is the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, which passes through Nachi Taisha and leads to other sacred sites in the area.

4. Exploring the nearby town of Nachi-Katsuura: The town of Nachi-Katsuura is a quaint fishing village with a rich history and culture. Visitors can wander the streets, visit the local markets, and sample the fresh seafood.

5. Relaxing in a hot spring: There are several hot springs in the area around Nachi Falls that offer a relaxing way to unwind after a day of sightseeing and hiking. Some of the popular hot springs include Katsuura Tsuruga Resort and Urashima Onsen.