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Odaru Waterfall

4
·320 reviews·Kawazu, Japan

Experience a powerful waterfall and unique mixed-gender onsen where you can soak in hot springs with a stunning cascade backdrop.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cool off with a waterfall swim

CrowdMedium
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Odaru Waterfall - Image 1

Odaru Waterfall

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cool off with a waterfall swim

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience a powerful waterfall and unique mixed-gender onsen where you can soak in hot springs with a stunning cascade backdrop. Instagram+1

4
(320 reviews)

"An incredible, gorgeous waterfall with a lush and peaceful surrounding area. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🩱 Bring Swimwear!

Essential for enjoying the mixed-gender onsen with waterfall views.

🚗 Car Recommended

Easier access to Odaru Waterfall and the surrounding area.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Odaru Onsen

Odaru Onsen

At the base of Odaru Waterfall

Immerse yourself in mixed-gender, open-air hot springs with a stunning waterfall backdrop. Swimwear is often required.

Instagram+1
Odaru Waterfall

Odaru Waterfall

End of Kawazu Seven Waterfalls trail

The tallest and most impressive of the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls, offering a powerful natural spectacle.

Instagram+1
Kawazu Seven Waterfalls Trail

Kawazu Seven Waterfalls Trail

Kawazu, Izu Peninsula

Hike through lush greenery, enjoying the sights and sounds of seven distinct waterfalls, culminating at Odaru.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Onsen Experience

Odaru Waterfall is famed for its adjacent onsen (hot springs). Many visitors recommend bringing swimwear to enjoy the mixed-gender, open-air baths with waterfall views. Note that the Amagiso Resort hotel burned down, but the onsen facilities remain accessible. Instagram+1

Accessing the Falls

While part of the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls trail, Odaru is the furthest and most commercialized. A car is highly recommended for easier access. Be prepared for a walk, and consider the onsen entry fee if you wish to see the falls up close. Reddit+1

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Cool off with a waterfall swim
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Beautiful fall foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds at the onsen
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

welcome to Kawazu Seven Waterfalls where at the bottom of the last, and tallest, waterfall of them all you can find 📍Odaru Onsen These unique hot springs are part of the Amagiso Resort property. Unfortunately the hotel itself burnt down a couple of years ago so you currently can not stay or make the most of free onsen entry that would come with it BUT for those that thought my tattoo-friendly...
wanderingdonut
138.9K likes • 2.6M views

🩱 Bring Swimwear!

Essential for enjoying the mixed-gender onsen with waterfall views. InstagramReddit

🚗 Car Recommended

Easier access to Odaru Waterfall and the surrounding area. Reddit

Location List: 📍Kamuiwakka Hot Falls, Shiretoko, Hokkaido 📍Yonako Falls, Nagano 📍Odaru Waterfall, Izu Peninsula #waterfalllovers #waterfall #hiddenjapan #naturejapan #カムイワッカ湯の滝 #米子大瀑布 #大樽の滝
yamatrips
2.6K likes • 60.4K views
comment ONSEN for the ultimate guide to📍Amagiso Odaru Onsen yep, my GUIDE TO JAPAN’S UNIQUE WATERFALL ONSEN is finally here with everything you need to know about how to make the most of your Kawazu Seven Falls experience! to give you the quick debrief: 🏩This onsen is part of the Amagiso Resort property. Unfortunately the Amagiso hotel burnt down a couple of years ago so you currently can not s...
wanderingdonut
32.3K likes • 929.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Hike the Trail

Enjoy the journey through the seven waterfalls before reaching Odaru. Instagram

💰 Onsen Entry Fee

Be prepared to pay for access to the onsen to see the falls up close. Reddit

one of my favourite japan hidden gems, an onsen with a waterfall view 🇯🇵✨ 📍大滝温泉 天城荘 Odaru Onsen Amagiso 河津七滝の一つの大滝を見ながら入れる温泉 ♨️ #onsen #izu #kawazusevenfalls #japantravel #温泉 #伊豆 #河津七滝
ohayohibikisan
48 likes • 1.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🩱 Bring Swimwear!

Essential for enjoying the mixed-gender onsen with waterfall views. InstagramReddit

🚗 Car Recommended

Easier access to Odaru Waterfall and the surrounding area. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Hike the Trail

Enjoy the journey through the seven waterfalls before reaching Odaru. Instagram

💰 Onsen Entry Fee

Be prepared to pay for access to the onsen to see the falls up close. Reddit

🗣️ Learn Basic Japanese

Helpful for communicating with staff at the onsen. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(320 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Odaru Waterfall and the unique onsen experience, with many highlighting the relaxing atmosphere and the impressive cascade. Some find the commercialization and entrance fee a bit disappointing compared to other waterfalls, and access can be a challenge without a car. However, the chance to swim in natural pools or soak in hot springs with a waterfall view is a major draw. Reddit+2

"An incredible, gorgeous waterfall. And the area around it is so lush and peaceful.

We didn’t bring our swimsuits, but it looked like a lot of fun to swim in the pools near the water with the waterfall in the background. If we went back, I’d make mean effort to swim for sure."

Julian Liby

"One and only waterfall in the seven waterfall that is very commercialized and needing to pay to visit. It is oddly away from the other 6 waterfalls from the trail. Quite a disappointment thou it was the biggest one. Quite a long walk just to get to the look out..."

Luke L'sk

"This fall is technically within the Amagiso public bathing area so if you want to see the entire length you have to use the baths. You can see the fall itself from the entrance to the baths.

The old lady manning the station is lovely. If no one is using the baths and you ask her nicely (no one here speaks English), she may allow you into the first area where the changing rooms are to see the fall up close."

Edwin Lindsey

What People Like

Gorgeous waterfall views
Unique onsen experience
Relaxing natural setting

What People Dislike

Commercialized feel
Entrance fee required
Access without a car

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Odaru Waterfall is located on the Izu Peninsula and is the last of the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls. While it's part of a hiking trail, many visitors find it easiest to access by car, as it's a bit further from the others. Public transport is possible but can be time-consuming. Reddit

Yes, you can reach the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls area via train to Kawazu Station, followed by a bus or taxi. However, reaching Odaru specifically might require a significant walk from the main bus stops. Instagram

The hike through the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls, including Odaru, can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours depending on your pace and how long you stop at each waterfall. Instagram

There is parking available at the Amagiso Resort area, which is adjacent to Odaru Waterfall. This is often the most convenient option for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Yes, Odaru Waterfall is a popular day trip or overnight destination from Tokyo. It's approximately a 3-hour journey by train and then local transport or car. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While the other six Kawazu waterfalls are generally free to view, Odaru Waterfall is part of the Amagiso public bathing area. You typically need to pay an entrance fee for the onsen to get the best views and access the immediate surroundings of the waterfall. Reddit+1

The onsen facilities at Amagiso Odaru Onsen are generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check their specific operating times before your visit, as they can vary. Instagram

You can swim in the pools near the base of Odaru Waterfall, especially if you are using the onsen facilities. Bringing swimwear is highly recommended for this experience. InstagramReddit

While not widely advertised, some visitors have mentioned that if the onsen is not busy and you ask politely, the staff might allow closer access to the waterfall. Reddit

Unfortunately, the Amagiso Resort hotel itself burned down a few years ago. However, the onsen facilities are still operational and accessible to visitors. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The best way to experience Odaru Waterfall is by hiking the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls trail and then enjoying the adjacent onsen. The combination of nature and relaxation is highly praised. InstagramReddit

You are required to wear swimwear in the mixed-gender onsen baths at Odaru. This allows couples and friends to enjoy the experience together. Instagram+1

Yes, there are changing rooms available at the Amagiso Odaru Onsen for visitors to use before and after their bath. Reddit

Odaru Waterfall can get crowded, especially during peak seasons and weekends, as it's the most commercialized of the seven falls. Visiting on a weekday or during off-peak hours can offer a more peaceful experience. Instagram

The onsen water is typically around 40°C, providing a warm and relaxing experience. For those seeking a cooler dip, the natural waterfall pools offer a refreshing alternative. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The most iconic photos are taken from the onsen area, capturing the waterfall cascading behind the steaming hot springs. The hiking trail also offers scenic viewpoints of the surrounding nature. Instagram+1

Yes, you can take photos in the onsen area, but be mindful of other bathers' privacy. Many visitors capture the unique combination of waterfall and hot springs. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and potentially fewer crowds, enhancing your photography opportunities. Golden hour can create a magical atmosphere. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in natural parks and tourist areas in Japan. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall and the onsen. A waterproof camera or phone case is advisable if you plan to get close to the water. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Odaru Waterfall and its surrounding trail can be a fun adventure for families. The hike through the seven waterfalls offers a chance for kids to explore nature and see impressive cascades. The onsen area, where swimwear is allowed, can also be an enjoyable experience for children, allowing them to splash and relax in the warm waters with a unique view. Instagram

Recommendations: Ensure children wear appropriate footwear for the hike. While the onsen is mixed-gender, it's a good idea to check if there are any age restrictions or specific family hours. Bringing snacks and drinks is also advisable, as facilities might be limited along the trail. Reddit

💑 Couples

Odaru Waterfall and its onsen are a perfect romantic getaway. The scenic hike through the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls provides a beautiful backdrop for a shared adventure. The highlight for couples is undoubtedly the mixed-gender onsen, where you can relax together in the warm waters, surrounded by nature and the majestic waterfall. Instagram+1

Tips for couples: Consider visiting during a weekday to enjoy a more intimate experience at the onsen. The natural beauty of the area also makes it ideal for leisurely strolls and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers

For those exploring the Izu Peninsula by car, Odaru Waterfall is a must-visit stop. Its accessibility by road makes it a convenient addition to any itinerary. The combination of a scenic hike and a unique onsen experience offers a perfect break during a road trip. Reddit

Key advice: Plan your visit to include time for both the hike and the onsen. Parking is available at the Amagiso area. Consider staying overnight in the Izu region to fully appreciate the natural beauty and avoid a rushed visit. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Kawazu Seven Waterfalls Experience

The Kawazu Seven Waterfalls (Kawazu Nanadaru) is a popular hiking route on the Izu Peninsula, renowned for its natural beauty and the series of seven distinct waterfalls. Each waterfall has its own charm, with names like Kawazu Otaki, Odaru, and Nanadaru. The trail winds through lush forests, offering a refreshing escape and a chance to connect with nature. Many visitors combine the hike with a visit to the unique onsen facilities located along the route. Instagram+1

Odaru Waterfall is the grand finale of this trail, being the largest and most powerful of the seven. Its impressive cascade is a sight to behold. However, it's also the most commercialized, with access often tied to the Amagiso Odaru Onsen. While some find this a bit disappointing compared to the more natural settings of the other falls, the opportunity to relax in a hot spring with a waterfall view is a significant draw. Reddit+1

Tips for the hike: Wear comfortable walking shoes, bring water, and be prepared for some uneven terrain. The best times to visit are spring for cherry blossoms and autumn for vibrant foliage, though summer offers a chance for a refreshing waterfall swim. InstagramReddit

Odaru Onsen: A Unique Hot Spring Experience

Odaru Onsen offers a truly unique hot spring experience, situated right at the base of the impressive Odaru Waterfall. What sets it apart is its mixed-gender, open-air baths (rotenburo) where visitors can soak in the therapeutic waters while enjoying the powerful sight and sound of the cascading waterfall. This feature makes it a popular spot for couples and groups of friends. Instagram+1

It's important to note that swimwear is generally required for these baths, distinguishing them from traditional Japanese onsen etiquette where nudity is the norm. This allows for a more inclusive experience. The Amagiso Resort, which historically managed these onsen, unfortunately suffered a fire, but the onsen facilities themselves remain accessible to the public. Instagram+1

Visitors often describe the experience as incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating, especially after a hike along the waterfall trail. The combination of the warm onsen water and the cool mist from the waterfall creates a sensory delight. Be prepared for an entrance fee, which contributes to the upkeep of this special natural attraction. Reddit+1

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