Ryuzu Yaedaki is a spectacular collection of waterfalls in Kakeya Town, Unnan City, Shimane Prefecture. Recognized as one of Japan’s 100 Best Waterfalls, this beautiful area is one of the region’s most impressive natural attractions.
The name Ryuzu Yaedaki refers collectively to two separate waterfall areas: Ryuzugataki Waterfall in the Matsukasa district and Yaedaki Waterfalls in the Iruma district, approximately 5.5 kilometers to the southeast.
Although the two areas have their own distinct character, both are located within the Ryuzu Yaedaki Prefectural Natural Park. Surrounded by deep forests and clear mountain streams, the area offers beautiful scenery in every season and provides an excellent opportunity to experience the natural landscape of Shimane.
Yaedaki is the collective name for eight waterfalls located along a gorge formed by the Tamiya River, a tributary of the Mitoya River system.
Over approximately 1.5 kilometers, a clear mountain stream flows through the gorge, with one waterfall after another appearing along the way. Each waterfall has its own shape and character, creating a constantly changing landscape for hikers to enjoy.
From downstream to upstream, the eight waterfalls are Sarutobi Falls, Takijiri Falls, Momiji Falls, Kajika Falls, Uba Falls, Hime Falls, Yashio Falls, and Yashio Falls at the uppermost section.
Among the waterfalls of Yaedaki, the most impressive are the two waterfalls at the upper end of the gorge. Together, the two-tiered falls have a total drop of approximately 40 meters.
The upper waterfall is called Yashio Falls, while the lower waterfall is known as Yashio Falls. With abundant water flowing over the rock face, the sight and sound of the falls provide a powerful reminder of the force of nature.
A walking trail leads from the parking area toward the vicinity of the upper waterfalls. The walk takes approximately 35 minutes one way, allowing visitors to enjoy the clear stream, forest atmosphere, and surrounding natural scenery along the route.
More than 200 species of plants grow in the surrounding area, making the trail especially interesting for nature lovers. Fresh green foliage in spring and colorful autumn leaves are particularly beautiful, attracting many visitors.
The Yaedaki Festival is held every year on August 14. The event includes traditional ceremonies praying for safety as well as stalls selling local specialties.
The festival provides an opportunity to experience the close relationship between the local community and the natural environment, adding a warm cultural dimension to a visit to the waterfalls.
The surrounding mountains are rich in wildlife as well as natural beauty. Bear sightings have been reported in the area, so visitors are encouraged to carry a bear bell and, where possible, walk with other people rather than hiking alone.
The trail also retains a relatively natural character, so sturdy footwear with good grip is recommended, particularly when the ground is wet or slippery.
Ryuzugataki Waterfall is located in the Matsukasa district of Kakeya Town, Unnan City. It is regarded as one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Chugoku region.
The waterfall consists of O-daki, the male waterfall, with a 40-meter drop, and Me-daki, the female waterfall, with a 30-meter drop. The powerful streams cascading down the mountain resemble a dragon rising toward the heavens, giving the waterfall its evocative name.
One of Ryuzugataki’s most remarkable features is the opportunity to experience it as a “back-view waterfall.” Visitors can walk behind O-daki and look outward through the curtain of falling water.
A spacious rock cavern lies behind the waterfall, creating a wonderfully atmospheric setting. Looking at the surrounding landscape through the falling water is a memorable and almost dreamlike experience.
A statue known as Takikannon, or the Waterfall Kannon, is enshrined inside the rock cavern. The waterfall has therefore been associated with religious devotion for centuries.
Ryuzugataki is associated with a legend involving Gyoki, a Buddhist monk who lived during Japan’s Nara period.
According to the legend, Gyoki sensed a mysterious spiritual presence and came to this area. He is said to have seen the form of a dragon dwelling within the waterfall, which became the inspiration for the name Ryuzugataki.
Another famous story connected with the area concerns a celebrated horse known as Ikazuchi. The horse is said to have been raised in this region before eventually being presented to Minamoto no Yoritomo.
Ikazuchi later became known as a famous warhorse that played an important role in the Battle of Uji River, leaving its name in Japanese history.
The Ryuzugataki Festival is held every August, featuring a traditional waterfall dance performed against the dramatic backdrop of the falls.
The festival brings together the power of the natural landscape and local traditions, attracting visitors who want to experience both the waterfall and the culture of the surrounding community.
The trail leading toward the waterfall is also an attraction in its own right. Large cedar trees believed to be more than 400 years old line the route, creating a mysterious and tranquil atmosphere.
Walking through the forest while listening to the sound of the water is a rewarding part of the experience before reaching the main waterfall.
The Ryuzu Yaedaki Prefectural Natural Park encompasses both Ryuzugataki and Yaedaki. Although the two waterfall areas are separated geographically, each offers a distinctive landscape.
Ryuzugataki is known for the dramatic presence of its large waterfalls, while Yaedaki is characterized by the beauty of a mountain gorge where a series of waterfalls follows a clear stream.
Both areas are surrounded by rich forests and mountain streams. Their scenery changes throughout the year, offering fresh greenery in spring, cool waterside landscapes in summer, brilliant autumn foliage, and quiet winter scenery.
For visitors who enjoy hiking, photography, waterfalls, and peaceful natural environments, the park offers a rewarding experience in the mountains of Shimane.
Yaedaki can be reached by turning off National Route 54 and driving approximately 1 kilometer to the parking area. Ryuzugataki can also be accessed from the national route, with a parking area available near the waterfall.
From the Yoshida-Kakeya Interchange on the Matsue Expressway, it takes approximately 15 minutes by car to Yaedaki and approximately 20 minutes to Ryuzugataki.
Because the two waterfall areas are separate, travelers planning to visit both should allow enough time for driving between the two locations as well as walking on the trails.
Ryuzu Yaedaki is one of Shimane’s remarkable destinations, where spectacular natural scenery meets history, mythology, and local traditions.
At Yaedaki, visitors can follow a forest trail alongside a clear mountain stream and discover a series of waterfalls, while Ryuzugataki offers the dramatic spectacle of towering falls and the rare experience of viewing a waterfall from behind.
The legends of Yamata-no-Orochi and the monk Gyoki, the story of the famous horse, and the traditional festivals held in the area add a cultural dimension to the natural scenery.
For travelers seeking a refreshing escape into nature or hoping to discover a quieter side of Japan away from the major tourist centers, Ryuzu Yaedaki offers an opportunity to experience the beauty of mountains, forests, clear streams, waterfalls, and local legends in one memorable journey.
When visiting, be prepared for natural trail conditions and take appropriate precautions regarding wildlife. With a little preparation, the spectacular scenery of Ryuzugataki and Yaedaki can become one of the most memorable outdoor experiences of a trip through Shimane.