Located at the foot of Mount Ontake, which rises to 3,067 meters, Hida-Osaka is known for its abundant rainfall, steep mountain streams, and extensive forests. The area has more than 200 waterfalls with drops of at least five meters, making it one of Japan’s most remarkable destinations for waterfall enthusiasts.
Among its best-known attractions is Neo Falls, which has been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls. Visitors can explore the region through a variety of waterfall trekking routes, ranging from beginner-friendly walks to challenging hikes. The routes are divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels.
Hida-Osaka lies in the northern part of Gero City, on the western side of sacred Mount Ontake. With an elevation difference of approximately 2,500 meters, the region receives abundant water flowing down from the mountain. The landscape features Gandate Rock, a dramatic lava formation created by an eruption of Mount Ontake around 60,000 years ago. The steep terrain, extensive forests, and plentiful water have helped shape more than 200 distinctive waterfalls.
The area also offers unique hot spring experiences, including Nigorigo Onsen, a secluded hot spring resort at an elevation of approximately 1,800 meters, and Shimojima Onsen, known for its naturally carbonated spring water, a rarity in Japan.
Gifu Prefecture recognizes outstanding local attractions as “Treasures of Gifu,” celebrating places that residents are proud to share with the world. The first attraction to receive this distinction was Osaka Falls.
In Osaka Town, Gero City, at the foot of Mount Ontake, there are 216 waterfalls with drops of at least five meters. Guided waterfall tours are available, allowing visitors to explore the area’s spectacular natural scenery with the help of knowledgeable local guides.
Routes range from easy walks suitable for casual visitors to demanding hikes into remote mountain valleys. Depending on the route, visitors can discover several waterfalls in a single outing.
Mitsudaki Falls Course: An accessible route offering impressive views of the three-tiered Mitsudaki Falls.
Self-Guided Walking Routes: Visitors can explore at their own pace, with certain routes passing several waterfalls along the way.
Comprehensive Waterfall Tours: Guided walks reveal how the waterfalls differ from one valley to another, while guides share information about the area’s natural features.
Remote Wilderness Courses: For experienced hikers and adventurous visitors, these guided excursions lead deep into the rugged valleys shaped by the natural environment of Mount Ontake. Experienced guides help visitors explore these secluded waterfalls.
The Mitsudaki Falls Course features a spectacular waterfall that descends in three tiers: the lower tier is five meters high, the middle tier is 11 meters, and the upper tier is six meters.
From Gandate Park, a pleasant walking trail follows the gorge through refreshing woodland scenery. After approximately ten minutes, visitors reach Mitsudaki Falls, where the cascading water creates an impressive natural spectacle.
The trail is well maintained and offers a peaceful setting surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. Visitors can first walk from the parking area to Takimi Bridge in about five minutes to enjoy distant views of the lower and middle sections of the waterfall. This short approach is suitable for those who prefer an easy walk.
From Takimi Bridge, visitors can continue upstream along the trail to see all three tiers of Mitsudaki Falls.
The path as far as Takimi Bridge is relatively flat and easy to walk. It includes well-maintained sections of wooden boardwalk, stone paving, and metal walkways.
However, continuing upstream beyond Takimi Bridge requires climbing more than 200 steps. Much of this section consists of metal walkways equipped with handrails, but visitors should still wear suitable footwear and take care on the steps.
Visitors who continue farther upstream can follow a forest road alongside the gorge to reach two more waterfalls: Karatani Falls and Akaganetoyo Falls. The walk takes approximately one hour.
Akaganetoyo Falls is particularly striking for the mysterious emerald-green color of its plunge pool. The vivid water creates a beautiful contrast with the surrounding rock and forest.
Karatani Falls is a powerful waterfall that plunges into a broad rocky space with a tremendous roar. On a lucky day, sunlight and spray may combine to form a rainbow above the falling water.
Rather than rushing through the area, visitors are encouraged to take their time and enjoy the scenery along the way. The round-trip route covering these waterfalls takes approximately three hours and spans about five kilometers.
Osaka Falls offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the rugged landscapes at the foot of Mount Ontake. From the accessible Mitsudaki Falls trail to more challenging routes leading into secluded valleys, the area offers experiences for visitors with different interests and fitness levels.
With its dramatic waterfalls, clear mountain streams, ancient lava formations, and lush forests, Hida-Osaka is an ideal destination for anyone wishing to experience the natural beauty of Gifu Prefecture.
Gifu Prefecture, Gero City, Kosaka Town