Ryuzugataki Waterfall is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Chugoku region of Japan. Located in the Matsukasa area of Kakeya Town, Unnan City, Shimane Prefecture, the waterfall lies upstream along the Takidani River, which originates from Mt. Toyagamaru on the border between Unnan City and Izumo City.
Surrounded by deep forests and pristine mountain streams, Ryuzugataki is known for its dramatic beauty and mysterious atmosphere. It is regarded as one of the finest waterfalls in the Chugoku region and has also been selected as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waterfalls.
Ryuzugataki consists of two main waterfalls: Otaki, or the Male Waterfall, with a drop of approximately 40 meters, and Medaki, or the Female Waterfall, with a drop of approximately 30 meters.
Otaki is a dramatic straight waterfall in which the water plunges almost directly downward. The rushing water crashes against the rocks below, sending spray into the air and creating an impressive roar. Its powerful appearance is said to resemble a dragon ascending toward the heavens.
In contrast, Medaki is a cascading waterfall. Its water winds gracefully between the rocks, creating a softer and more delicate landscape.
The contrast between the powerful Otaki and the elegant Medaki is one of Ryuzugataki’s defining features. Together, they create a beautiful natural scene in which strength and delicacy exist side by side.
One of the most extraordinary features of Otaki is that visitors can view the waterfall from behind the falling water. This type of waterfall is known in Japan as a “Urami-no-taki,” or back-view waterfall.
Behind the waterfall is a large natural rock cavern known as Hyakujoshiki, meaning roughly “a cavern as spacious as one hundred tatami mats.” Inside the cavern, a statue of Kannon, the Buddhist bodhisattva of compassion, is enshrined.
Standing inside the cavern and looking outward through the curtain of falling water creates an extraordinary atmosphere. Sunlight filtering through the water can make the scene appear almost dreamlike, combining the power of nature with a sense of tranquility and mystery.
Waterfalls that can be viewed safely from behind are relatively rare, making this one of the most memorable experiences at Ryuzugataki.
The walking path leading to Ryuzugataki passes through a forest containing enormous cedar trees believed to be more than 400 years old.
Some of these trees have trunks measuring more than 5 meters in circumference. Their enormous size and age create the feeling of entering an ancient forest untouched by time.
Walking beneath the trees while sunlight filters through the leaves, accompanied by the sound of the waterfall and the gentle flow of the mountain stream, offers a peaceful opportunity to reconnect with nature.
The area around Ryuzugataki is home to a diverse range of plants and wildlife. Among the creatures found in the surrounding environment is the Japanese giant salamander, a nationally designated Special Natural Monument of Japan.
The combination of clear water, deep forests, and a healthy mountain environment makes the area an interesting destination for nature observation. The scenery also changes dramatically with the seasons.
Ryuzugataki is associated with a legend about Gyoki, a Buddhist monk who lived during Japan’s Nara period.
According to the legend, Gyoki visited this mountainous area and witnessed a great dragon in the forest. The dragon was said to have submerged itself in the waterfall basin before eventually disappearing by climbing up the waterfall.
Deeply moved by this mysterious encounter, Gyoki is said to have carved and enshrined a statue of Kannon at the site. The waterfall subsequently became known as Ryuzugataki, meaning “Dragon-Head Waterfall.”
The story gives the waterfall an especially mysterious character, linking the dramatic natural landscape with the spiritual traditions of ancient Japan.
Another famous story associated with Ryuzugataki concerns the legendary horse Ikazuki.
According to local tradition, when Ikazuki was young, the horse repeatedly mistook its own reflection in the waterfall pool for its mother and jumped into the water. Through this repeated experience, it gradually became an excellent swimmer.
The horse was later recognized as an exceptional warhorse and was eventually presented to Minamoto no Yoritomo. It is said to have distinguished itself during the Battle of the Uji River.
This story of Ikazuki adds another fascinating chapter to the history and legends surrounding Ryuzugataki.
Ryuzugataki offers a different experience in every season.
Spring brings fresh green leaves that brighten the forest. The new foliage creates a refreshing contrast with the dark rocks and white water of the falls.
Summer is an especially pleasant time to visit, when the cool spray from the waterfall and the shade of the forest provide relief from the heat.
Autumn transforms the surrounding mountains into a colorful landscape of red, orange, and yellow foliage, creating a spectacular backdrop for the waterfall.
Winter brings a quiet atmosphere to the forest. When temperatures fall low enough, ice can form around the flowing water, creating a mysterious and otherworldly landscape.
Every August, the Ryuzugataki Waterfall Festival is held at the site. One of the highlights is a traditional waterfall dance performed with the dramatic falls as a backdrop.
Dancers dressed in colorful yukata move gracefully to traditional music, creating a beautiful scene in which local culture and the power of nature come together.
The festival attracts many visitors and offers a unique opportunity to experience both the natural beauty and cultural traditions of the area.
Approximately 10 kilometers south of Ryuzugataki lies another remarkable waterfall area known as Yaedaki.
Along approximately 1.5 kilometers of mountain stream, visitors can discover eight waterfalls: Sarutobi Falls, Takijiri Falls, Momiji Falls, Kajika Falls, Uba Falls, Hime Falls, Yashio Falls, and Yashio Falls.
Each waterfall has its own character, creating a constantly changing landscape along the gorge.
Yaedaki has a maintained walking trail where visitors can enjoy a peaceful hike while listening to the sound of the clear stream.
At the far end of the trail, Yashio Falls and Yashio Falls form a particularly impressive two-tiered waterfall with a combined drop of approximately 40 meters.
Combining a visit to Yaedaki with Ryuzugataki is an excellent way to experience the diverse landscapes of waterfalls and mountain forests in the Unnan area.
Ryuzugataki is approximately 20 minutes by car from the Yoshida-Kakeya Interchange on the Matsue Expressway.
There are two parking areas, one near the upper part of the waterfall and another near the lower part. From the upper parking area, visitors can follow the walking trail toward the waterfall.
Much of the walking trail retains a natural character, with slippery sections and steep slopes in places. Comfortable walking shoes or hiking shoes with good grip are strongly recommended.
The surrounding mountains are also home to wildlife, including bears. Visitors should take appropriate precautions, such as carrying a bear bell, and traveling with companions rather than hiking alone whenever possible.
Ryuzugataki Waterfall is a remarkable destination where dramatic scenery, ancient legends, rich forests, and traditional culture come together.
The contrast between the powerful Otaki and graceful Medaki, the rare experience of viewing the waterfall from behind, and the ancient cedar forest surrounding the falls make the journey especially memorable.
The legends of the dragon, the monk Gyoki, and the famous horse Ikazuki add a fascinating cultural dimension to the natural landscape. Meanwhile, the nearby Yaedaki waterfalls provide another opportunity to explore the beautiful mountain environment.
For travelers looking to experience a quieter and more atmospheric side of Japan, Ryuzugataki offers the chance to step into a landscape where water, forest, history, spirituality, and legend have been intertwined for generations.
Prepare appropriately for the natural trail conditions, take care around wildlife, and allow yourself time to listen to the water and explore the forest. A visit to Ryuzugataki can be a deeply refreshing experience and a memorable encounter with the natural beauty of Shimane.