The Shirakami area has a number of hidden waterfalls. Below are a couple of “see it for yourself” spots:

Garo Waterfall

Located behind a small shrine, this waterfall is a short drive from the Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage Conservation Center and Hotel Yutoria. Enjoyable all year-round — dip your feet in its waters in summer, enjoy the vibrant leaves in autumn, and see the water freeze over in winter. Parking is available on the premises.

Address:Fujikoto, Fujisato, Yamamoto, Akita 018-3201

Choshi Falls

The jagged rocks come together to create a rounded, cave-like dome from which water plunges 18 meters. Parking is available at the end of the road, at Nagominoyu Onsen. It is an easy and flat, less than 5-minute walk to the falls from the parking area.

It is also walking distance from the World Heritage Conservation Center and Mori-no-eki, so feel free to park and walk from there as well. A big reward for very little effort!

Address: Shimoyunosawa Fujikoto, Fujisato, Yamamoto, Akita 018-3201

Ogara no Taki

Similar to Choshi Falls, this domed waterfall is in the depths of Noshiro’s forest. Although it feels very remote, it’s only about 30 minutes from Noshiro’s city center. Follow the narrow, gravel road and you will arrive to a grassy open space, park here. From there, you can walk down a steep set of stairs which will take you to the waterfall. It is relatively easy to get down, but please be careful with slippery rocks, snakes, and bears! This waterfall is for the adventurer.

Address: Tokiwa, Noshiro, Akita 018-2801