Nishishiiya Falls, 86-meter waterfall in Kusu and Usa, Japan.
Nishishiiya Falls is a waterfall in the Kusu and Usa area of Oita Prefecture, Japan, where water drops about 86 meters (280 feet) down a nearly vertical rock face. The surrounding forest closes in tightly around it, framing the fall with dense green trees on all sides.
The waterfall was included in Japan's official list of notable waterfalls after the country carried out a nationwide survey of natural water features. That recognition brought it to the attention of visitors from well beyond the local area.
In Japan, waterfalls are often considered sacred places, and some visitors come to Nishishiiya Falls to pause and listen to the sound of the water rather than simply look at it. This quiet form of attention is common at natural sites throughout the country.
The waterfall is reached by marked hiking paths, with parking near the trailheads. The paths can be slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is a good idea before setting out.
Unlike many well-known Japanese waterfalls, the water here falls in a single continuous drop with no ledges or breaks along the way. This gives it an unusually clean profile that stands out from the stepped or tiered falls more common in the region.
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