One of the hidden spots located in Tochigi Prefecture. Oshiraji Waterfall is a scenic mountainous pool and accompanying waterfall. The pool of water has a stunning crystal clear blue. The view is a breath-taking harmonisation of the mysterious blue of the water in combination with the green mountains and sunlight filtering down through the trees.
Name Reason
The waterfall called in Japanese Oshiraji, which “Shiraji” means “Pot” in Japanese, ” O” is for respect word in Japanese. The waterfall is a little bit in round shape that may looks like a pot. So that`s the reason of its naming.
Fall of Illusion
Oshiraji Falls are known as the “falls of illusion”. Some of the rumors says that the reason may be because a long time ago the place used to be “a place where people prayed for rain”. There another rumors, but In my opinion is the main reason, because the waterfall water is not always flowing. If it ia not raining or raining but not enough for make if flowing, you may not see the waterfall. And that`s is why it called “illusion”
Access
It is not a tourist spots so there is not access by bus. The only two option are:
1. Taxi – The nearest station is Yaita Station. So there is option to get a texi from there.
2. Car/rental car – From Yaita Station is about 30 minutes. We drove from our home in Tokyo, so it took 2 hours and half by car from Tokyo.
The entrance in the forest to get down to the mysterious waterfall
Hiking Trail - Another spots to see
If you make a time, take a rental car and arrive till this waterfall, you would want to see more spots, right? So we have a good news! About another 5 minutes by car from the Oshiraji falls, there is very nice hiking trail course.
Sukkanzawa(Sukkan River)
This river is called Sukkanzawa and flows along a beautiful sidewalk in the mountains with 3 different waterfalls : Yuhino Falls, Nisaburo Falls (Maihime Fall), Soren Falls, and virgin forests. The hiking course takes about 2 hours for round trip.
Information
Hours: 24 hours open (The roads are closed during winter)
Fee: Free
Parking: There is a parking area but only for few cars
Best time to see: After a consecutive days of rain, in a sunny day (for to get the best blue color)
Address: Shimoisano, Yaita City, Tochigi Prefecture 329-2502