Fukiware Waterfalls is a spectacular waterfall on the Katashina River in Numata City, Gunma Prefecture. It is one of the region’s most impressive natural attractions, renowned for its dramatic gorge scenery and unusual geological formations.
The waterfall is approximately 7 meters high and 30 meters wide. Rather than plunging straight down from a cliff, the water rushes toward a huge crack in the bedrock, creating a distinctive and powerful landscape. Because the rocks appear to have been split apart by the force of the water, the waterfall came to be known as “Fukiware,” meaning something like “blown-apart rocks.”
Because of its outstanding natural beauty and geological value, the area was designated a Natural Monument and Place of Scenic Beauty in 1936. Fukiware Gorge and Fukiware Waterfall were officially recognized under the former Ministry of Education. The waterfall also appeared in the opening sequence of the 2000 NHK historical drama Aoi: Tokugawa Sandai, bringing its spectacular scenery to an even wider audience.
The gorge extends for approximately 1 kilometer around the waterfall and is known as Fukiware Gorge, or Katashina Gorge. Dramatic rock formations, steep cliffs, and landscapes carved by the river combine to create a memorable natural setting.
The most remarkable feature of Fukiware Waterfalls is its unusual shape. Instead of falling from the edge of a conventional cliff, the river rushes toward a massive fissure in the middle of the riverbed. The water appears to be drawn into the opening in the rock, creating an extraordinary scene that demonstrates the immense power of nature.
During periods of high water flow, large amounts of spray rise from the waterfall, creating a refreshing natural mist around the gorge. On hot summer days, the cool spray provides a pleasant sensation for visitors exploring the area.
Spring is one of the most impressive seasons to visit Fukiware Waterfalls. As snow melts in the surrounding mountains, the amount of water in the Katashina River increases, creating a particularly powerful flow.
The roar of the water echoes through the gorge, while fresh green foliage covers the surrounding trees. The contrast between the young greenery, rugged rock surfaces, and white spray creates a bright and refreshing landscape.
In summer, the gorge is surrounded by deep green vegetation and cool flowing water. The natural mist rising from the waterfall adds to the refreshing atmosphere, making the area a popular destination for enjoying the cooler mountain environment.
In autumn, the entire gorge is transformed by brilliant foliage. Red and yellow leaves contrast beautifully with the white water of the falls and the dark rock formations.
Fukiware Waterfalls is also known as a scenic destination for autumn foliage, attracting many visitors who come to enjoy the combination of waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and colorful forests.
Downstream from Fukiware Waterfalls is another impressive waterfall called Masutobi Waterfall. It is approximately 8 to 15 meters high and 6 meters wide, making it one of the most striking features of the gorge.
In the past, many trout traveled upstream along the Katashina River, a tributary of the Tone River. However, the drop at this waterfall was too high for the fish to pass, and they were said to leap repeatedly at the base of the falls. This is believed to be the origin of the name “Masutobi,” meaning “trout leaping.”
The waterfall was also reportedly once called Masudome-no-taki, meaning “the waterfall where trout are stopped.”
On the right bank of the gorge stands a dramatic rock wall known as Hannya Rock. The shape of the rock face is said to resemble a human face, particularly the fierce expression of a hannya, the traditional Japanese image of a female demon.
With its sharply shaped rock surface and imposing appearance, Hannya Rock seems almost like a guardian watching over the gorge.
Byobu Rock is another spectacular formation in Fukiware Gorge. Its enormous rock walls rise like a traditional Japanese folding screen, which is the origin of the name byobu.
The rocks were formed from volcanic material that solidified after a pyroclastic flow and was gradually eroded over a very long period. Today, the formation is regarded as one of the characteristic geological features of Fukiware Gorge.
Numerous potholes of different sizes can be found in the riverbed. These geological formations were created as stones carried by the flowing water rotated and gradually carved holes into the underlying rock.
They provide an opportunity to observe, on a very tangible scale, how the continuous movement of water can shape solid rock over thousands or even millions of years.
A walking trail known as the Fukiware Gorge Walking Trail circles the waterfall and surrounding gorge. The route is approximately 1 kilometer long and takes around one hour at a leisurely pace.
There are three observation platforms along the route, each offering a different perspective of Fukiware Waterfalls and the surrounding landscape.
Views from Ukishima Bridge and Fukiware Bridge are also particularly beautiful. The scenery is especially impressive during the fresh green season in spring and the colorful foliage season in autumn.
The trail also allows visitors to enjoy a relaxing forest-bathing experience while taking in the dramatic scenery of the gorge. It is popular with both tourists and hikers.
The trail was recognized for its contribution to introducing local scenery and culture and received the Handmade Hometown Award in fiscal year 1994 as a road that helps introduce the character of the local community.
The landscape around Fukiware Waterfalls was formed through volcanic activity approximately 9 million years ago. Massive volcanic eruptions generated pyroclastic flows, which accumulated and eventually cooled and solidified into layers of rock known as welded tuff.
Over countless years, the Katashina River gradually eroded these rock layers, creating the V-shaped gorge seen today. Softer sections of the rock were eroded more easily, eventually producing huge fissures in the bedrock.
As the river flowed into these openings, the distinctive landscape of Fukiware Waterfalls gradually developed. The appearance of water seemingly splitting apart enormous rocks is also believed to have inspired the waterfall’s name.
Broad stretches of flat bedrock can be found along the riverbed of Fukiware Gorge. One particularly extensive area is known as Senjōjiki, a name that literally evokes a vast floor large enough to spread out a thousand tatami mats.
The flowing water has gradually worn away the rock, creating numerous potholes. These natural potholes are formed when stones carried by the current rotate repeatedly against the bedrock, slowly carving circular depressions.
Potholes can be found for approximately 1.5 kilometers from the area around Fukiware Waterfalls. Many measure around 2 to 3 meters in diameter, while some of the largest reach approximately 6 to 7 meters.
These formations are valuable examples of the long-term geological processes through which running water shapes the landscape.
Fukiware Waterfalls is also associated with a fascinating traditional legend known as the Legend of the Dragon Palace Bowls.
Long ago, whenever villagers held weddings, festivals, or other celebrations, they were said to be able to borrow dishes and bowls from the mysterious Dragon Palace beneath the waterfall. They would throw a request written on paper into the waterfall pool, and the following day, the requested number of trays and bowls would appear on a rock.
After using the borrowed tableware, the villagers were expected to return everything to the same place within three days, together with a letter of thanks.
According to the legend, one year a villager accidentally failed to return one set of bowls. From that time onward, no matter how much the villagers asked, the Dragon Palace would no longer lend them tableware.
This story is considered one of Japan’s traditional “bowl-lending legends”, which are found in various parts of the country. The tale adds an element of mystery to the already dramatic atmosphere of Fukiware Waterfalls.
Along the gorge stands Ukishima Kannon-do, a small Buddhist hall with a long history. According to historical records, the hall is said to have been founded in 795, during the early Heian period.
The principal Buddhist image was restored in 1469, during the Muromachi period, and the hall itself was rebuilt in 1534.
Ukishima Kannon-do enshrines a statue of Ukishima Nyoirin Kannon. According to tradition, the statue was created by the celebrated sculptor Hidari Jingorō, who is also famous in legend for carving the renowned Sleeping Cat at Nikkō Tōshōgū.
The Kannon statue was originally carved from unpainted wood. During the Meiji period, it was covered with gold leaf. It is also said to have miraculously survived wartime air raids and remains carefully preserved today.
When visiting Fukiware Waterfalls, one of the best ways to experience the area is to walk the entire gorge trail. From near the waterfall, visitors can appreciate the tremendous power of the flowing water, while the observation platforms provide elevated views across the gorge.
The combination of waterfalls, unusual rock formations, forests, bridges, and river scenery makes the walk an enjoyable way to experience the natural character of the area.
After exploring the waterfall, visitors can also consider visiting Oigami Onsen, a quiet hot spring resort located in the surrounding mountains. A relaxing soak in the hot springs provides a pleasant way to unwind after walking through the gorge.
From the Numata Interchange of the Kan-Etsu Expressway, take National Route 120 toward Oze. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes and covers about 16–20 kilometers.
From JR Numata Station, take a Kan-Etsu Kotsu bus bound for Kamada. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to the Fukiware-no-taki bus stop.
From the bus stop, the waterfall is approximately a 3-minute walk away.
Viewing: Free access at any time, although the walking trail is closed at night.
Winter closure: The walking trail is generally closed from around mid-December to late March because of snow.
Admission: Free.
Parking: A free parking area for approximately 10 vehicles is available near Fukiware Bridge. Other paid and free parking areas are also available at nearby roadside restaurants and drive-in facilities, so visitors should check the conditions when parking.
Fukiware Waterfalls combines spectacular natural scenery with fascinating geological formations and traditional legends that have been passed down through generations.
The powerful flow of the waterfall, dramatic rock formations, forest-covered gorge, natural potholes, and historic Ukishima Kannon-do provide plenty to discover beyond the waterfall itself.
The scenery changes dramatically throughout the year, from fresh green forests and powerful spring waters to refreshing summer mist and brilliant autumn foliage. Each season offers a different way to experience the gorge.
With attractions such as Oigami Onsen nearby, Fukiware Waterfalls can easily be included in a wider trip through the Oze and Numata area. For travelers interested in Japan’s natural landscapes, geology, folklore, and traditional culture, this spectacular waterfall offers a memorable experience in the mountains of Gunma.
Japanese name: 吹割の滝（ふきわれ たき）
English name: Fukiware Waterfalls
Address: Oigami, Tone Town, Numata City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
Telephone: 0278-23-2111
Hours: Open for free viewing. The walking trail is closed at night.
Seasonal closure: The trail is generally closed from mid-December to late March.
Admission: Free
Parking: Approximately 10 free parking spaces
Access by train and bus: From JR Numata Station, take a bus bound for Kamada. Get off at the Fukiware Waterfalls bus stop and walk approximately 3 minutes, or about 220 meters.
Access by car: From the Numata Interchange of the Kan-Etsu Expressway, follow National Route 120 toward Oze for approximately 25 minutes, or about 16 kilometers.
Area: Oze & Numata, Gunma Prefecture
Category: Waterfalls, lakes, ponds, and dams
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For travelers looking to experience a side of Japan beyond the major cities, Gunma offers a combination of dramatic mountain scenery, traditional hot spring towns, historic architecture, local cuisine, outdoor activities, and beautiful seasonal landscapes.
Free
The boardwalk is closed at night.
Usually closed in winter from mid-December to late March
Free of charge
45 minutes by bus from JR Numata Station to Kamata, get off at “Fukiwari-no-taki” and walk 3 minutes (220m).
From the Numata I.C. of the Kanetsu Expressway, drive straight on Route 120 toward Oze for about 25 minutes (about 16 km).