When people think of the Shirakami Sanchi region, many imagine hiking through beech forests or walking around the lakes of Juniko. But there is another way to experience the natural beauty of this UNESCO World Natural Heritage area — a scenic waterfall drive through the foothills of Fujisato Town.

Located in northern Akita Prefecture, Fujisato Town serves as one of the gateways to Shirakami Sanchi. Hidden among its mountains are three beautiful waterfalls known collectively as the “Fujisato Three Waterfalls”: Fudo Falls, Garo Falls, and Choshi Falls.

Each waterfall has its own unique atmosphere, yet all offer dramatic scenery, peaceful surroundings, and relatively easy access by car. Even travelers who are not planning long hikes can still enjoy the rich nature of Shirakami Sanchi through this relaxing road trip experience.

Fudo Falls – A Hidden Waterfall Near Subari Dam

Located near Subari Dam, Fudo Falls is a striking waterfall with a drop of approximately 30 meters. One of its most impressive features is the way the water appears to burst directly from the rock face before cascading into the basin below.

During summer, cool mist fills the surrounding forest, creating a refreshing natural escape from the heat. Compared to the other waterfalls, Fudo Falls feels especially secluded, giving visitors the sensation of discovering a hidden world deep within the mountains.

Garo Falls – A Scenic Waterfall That Changes With the Seasons

Garo Falls has a drop of around 12 meters and is known for its constantly changing appearance depending on the water volume and season.

Water flows gently along a uniquely shaped rock surface, creating different patterns throughout the year. In spring and summer, the waterfall is surrounded by vibrant greenery, while autumn transforms the area into a colorful landscape of gold and orange foliage. Because of its photogenic scenery, Garo Falls is also popular among photographers visiting the Shirakami area.

Choshi Falls – A Unique Waterfall Surrounded by Rock Walls

Choshi Falls is perhaps the most distinctive of the three. Surrounded by dome-shaped rock walls, the waterfall flows powerfully through a narrow crack in the stone, creating an almost mysterious atmosphere.

During winter, the waterfall becomes famous for spectacular frozen scenery sometimes referred to locally as “ice chandeliers” and “ice-blue mountains.” These icy formations make Choshi Falls one of the hidden winter gems of the Shirakami foothills.

Discover a Different Side of Shirakami Sanchi

If you are looking for a different way to explore Shirakami Sanchi beyond hiking trails and mountain trekking, the Fujisato Three Waterfalls offer a perfect alternative.

From peaceful forest roads to dramatic waterfalls hidden in the mountains, this scenic drive allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of Akita’s Shirakami region at a slower and more accessible pace.

Whether visiting during the lush green season, autumn foliage, or the snowy landscapes of winter, each waterfall reveals a different face of Shirakami Sanchi throughout the year.