Irisawa Waterfall is located on a tributary of the Irisawa River in Kanna Town, Tano District, Gunma Prefecture, at an elevation of approximately 600 meters. With a drop of around 30 to 40 meters, the waterfall lies quietly in a forested mountain valley and is regarded as one of the notable waterfalls in Kanna Town.
One of the most distinctive features of Irisawa Waterfall is its geological structure. Approximately one-quarter of the lower section consists of hard chert. As the rock layers in the upper section have been gradually eroded, the waterfall has developed a distinctive two-tiered structure.
This erosion has created a space behind the falling water, allowing visitors to walk behind the waterfall and look out through the curtain of water. From this unusual viewpoint, the power of the cascading water can be experienced at close range.
Standing behind the waterfall while listening to the sound of the water and looking upward at the cascade creates an atmospheric and almost otherworldly experience. Because of this unusual feature, the waterfall is also known locally as “Ura no Taki,” or “the waterfall from behind”, and attracts visitors and photography enthusiasts.
A small shrine stands behind the waterfall, enshrining Fudō Myōō, the Buddhist deity known as Acala. The statue is also called “Mizukezuri Fudō”, or “Fudō who has been worn down,” and local tradition holds that drinking water that has passed over the statue’s body can cure illness.
The waterfall has long been associated with Shugendō mountain asceticism, and even today, practitioners may occasionally be seen undertaking spiritual training beneath the waterfall.
In front of the waterfall stand three stone lanterns dedicated in 1910. They provide a tangible reminder of the area’s long history of religious devotion and add cultural significance to the natural landscape.
Irisawa Waterfall is one of the “Three Waterfalls of Mamba” in the Mamba district of Kanna Town. The other two are Fudō Waterfall and Hayataki Waterfall. Each has its own distinctive character, making the area an attractive destination for waterfall sightseeing.
With a drop of approximately 30 meters, Fudō Waterfall is a powerful cascade with a Fudō statue enshrined among the rocks. Its solemn atmosphere makes it one of the area’s notable waterfalls.
Hayataki Waterfall has an impressive drop of approximately 40 meters. During particularly cold winters, the falling water can freeze into an ice waterfall, while in summer the area is appreciated as a refreshing retreat from the heat.
Kanna Town is home to seven waterfalls collectively known as the “Seven Waterfalls of Kanna.” Each waterfall takes on a different appearance throughout the year, offering new scenery with every season.
Fresh green foliage in spring, cool breezes in summer, colorful autumn leaves, and the quiet landscape of winter each create a different atmosphere for exploring the area.
The surrounding region also features Kanna Lake and the Kanna River, as well as natural attractions such as Mount Mikabo and the Mikabo Super Forest Road.
Kanna Town is also known for its fossil discoveries. Nearby attractions include the Sebayashi Ripple Marks, which include traces interpreted as dinosaur footprints, and the Kanna Dinosaur Center, where visitors can learn more about the area’s geological history and prehistoric past.
From Kashiwagi in Kanna Town, leave National Route 462 and follow the forest road along the Irisawa River. At the junction with the Atagoyama Forest Road, turn left and continue along the unpaved road.
At the junction marked by a sign, turn right and climb the steep concrete-paved road. At the end of the road, visitors will find Irisawa Fudō and Irisawa Waterfall. A small parking area for several vehicles is available before the end of the road.
From Shinmachi Station on the JR Takasaki Line, take a Nihon Chuo Bus bound for Mamba or Ueno Village Fureai-kan and get off at Fudōbashi Bus Stop. From there, it is approximately a 1.5-hour walk along the Irisawa River.
The forest roads and area around the waterfall include steep slopes, unpaved sections, and slippery surfaces. Visitors should wear sturdy, comfortable footwear and make appropriate preparations before setting out.
Please also respect the surrounding natural environment and the religious site, and follow appropriate etiquette while visiting.
Irisawa Waterfall is a special place where the beauty of nature and a long history of religious devotion come together. The view of the falling water from behind the cascade, the small shrine dedicated to Fudō Myōō, and the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding forest create an experience that is difficult to find elsewhere.
When visiting Kanna Town, consider making the journey to Irisawa Waterfall and experiencing this unusual combination of dramatic natural scenery, geological features, and local spiritual traditions for yourself.