Kawazu Seven Falls, Natural waterfalls in Kawazu, Japan
Kawazu Seven Falls is a series of seven connected waterfalls along a mountain trail in Shizuoka Prefecture, with the largest cascade, Odaru, reaching about 30 meters high. The falls were carved by the Kawazu River's flow over centuries and today form five swimming pools that visitors can enjoy.
The falls developed over centuries as the Kawazu River carved through the Amagi mountain range, creating distinct water features. The site gained literary significance in the 20th century when it appeared as a setting in Yasunari Kawabata's celebrated novel.
A bronze statue at Shokeidaru Falls honors Yasunari Kawabata's novel 'The Izu Dancer', which features this location in its story. The sculpture draws visitors interested in exploring the connection between this waterfall landscape and Japanese literary history.
Visitors reach the falls by bus from Kawazu Station and can hike the trail at their own pace, taking anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours depending on stops. Wearing comfortable hiking shoes is recommended, and swimming in the pools is enjoyable during warmer months when water levels allow.
Each waterfall features a stamp station where visitors collect impressions depicting the seven gods of good fortune. This interactive activity turns the visit into a collecting adventure, with each stamp marking a different location along the route.
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