Yudaki Falls, Waterfall in Okunikkō, Japan
Yudaki Falls is a waterfall in Okunikkō, Japan, where water drops 75 meters (246 feet) over a cliff of volcanic rock into a forested valley. The stream flows down from Lake Yunoko and forms a white curtain that feeds into a narrow river at the base.
The falls formed through volcanic activity that shaped the terrain of the Nikko region over thousands of years. Travelers began visiting this part of the highlands in the 19th century as hiking paths were established.
The name connects the character for hot water with the fact that the stream originates from Lake Yunoko. Hikers often pause at the viewing points to photograph the interplay of white foam and dark volcanic rock.
Visitors reach the viewing terraces through paved paths that take a few minutes on foot from the parking area. The site sits at an elevation of about 1478 meters (4849 feet), so it feels cooler than the valley even in summer.
The width of the falls extends about 25 meters (82 feet), so water slides over the rock face in several parallel streams. On sunny days, rainbows often form in the spray at the foot of the cascade.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
