
Shakado Potholes
A stunning ravine with a 30m waterfall, unique potholes, and spectacular autumn foliage. Easy trails and scenic views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak autumn foliage colors

Shakado Potholes
Best Time
Peak autumn foliage colors

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning ravine with a 30m waterfall, unique potholes, and spectacular autumn foliage. Easy trails and scenic views.
"Every part of the trail was scenic and it felt like you’d want to take a picture of everything."

🚗 Parking Availability
Multiple free parking lots are available. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak season.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Main paths are paved, but summit trails can be challenging. Wear sturdy shoes for a better experience.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shakado Waterfall
Main trail
A breathtaking 30-meter cascade plunging into a picturesque ravine, especially vibrant during autumn.

Autumn Foliage
Throughout the ravine
Witness a spectacular display of red and yellow leaves painting the cliff-lined landscape.

Pothole Formations
Riverbed
Unique, naturally carved rock formations along the river, showcasing the power of water over time.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Foliage
Trail Accessibility & Footwear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
First time trip to JP, thinking about visiting Yamanashi (Kofu) on the weekend
🚗 Parking Availability
Multiple free parking lots are available. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak season.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Main paths are paved, but summit trails can be challenging. Wear sturdy shoes for a better experience.
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📸 Capture Every Scenic View
The entire trail is incredibly scenic; you'll want to photograph everything!
🚌 Consider the Ropeway
Take a bus to the top and walk down, or use the ropeway for a less strenuous experience.
Suggestions for mountain hikes between Yamanashi and Osaka/Kyoto?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Availability
Multiple free parking lots are available. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak season.
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Main paths are paved, but summit trails can be challenging. Wear sturdy shoes for a better experience.
📸 Capture Every Scenic View
The entire trail is incredibly scenic; you'll want to photograph everything!
🚌 Consider the Ropeway
Take a bus to the top and walk down, or use the ropeway for a less strenuous experience.
💧 Vending Machines & Restrooms
Convenient amenities like vending machines and restrooms are available along the path.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Shakado Potholes, particularly the picturesque waterfall and the vibrant autumn foliage. The accessible paved trails are a plus, though some summit paths offer more challenge. Amenities like food stalls and restrooms add to the convenience, making it a well-rounded nature escape.
"This is one of the most beautiful places to enjoy the autumn leaves in Yamanashi. If you visit Yamanashi for momiji season, I highly recommend stopping by this spot in Kofu."
Thel Htet San
"Beautiful falls and rock formations, only a short hike to the shops and restaurants on top."
Bahareh
"We started our hike from Tenjinmori bus stop. Along the way, we were surrounded by trees that starting to turn red and yellow, with the sound of a river stream throughout the trail. Every part of the trail was scenic and it felt like you’d want to take a picture of everything. The trek itself was fairly easy since the path was paved.
We took a ropeway to the summit for 1,400 yen (round trip). Unfortunately, it was cloudy that day, so we couldn’t see Mt. Fuji. However, the view from the top was still stunning. Do note that the trail at the summit is more challenging than the previous one, so make sure to wear appropriate shoes. We took a bus to go back to Tenjinmori."
Ghifaroza
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Kofu, you can take a bus to the Tenjinmori bus stop, which is a common starting point for the trails. Some visitors also mention taking a bus to the top of the mountain and walking down.
Yes, there are multiple free parking lots available. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get a parking spot.
Public transport is a viable option, with buses serving the area. The Tenjinmori bus stop is frequently mentioned as a convenient access point.
Some reviews mention ongoing construction on the way up and down the mountain. It's a good idea to check for any local advisories before your visit.
Many visitors start their hike from the Tenjinmori bus stop. Alternatively, taking a bus to the summit and walking down is a recommended route for a less strenuous experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information regarding specific entrance fees is not widely detailed in the provided reviews, but the presence of free parking suggests it may be a nature area with free access to trails.
Specific operating hours are not mentioned, but it's generally advisable to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best experience, especially for sightseeing and hiking. Arriving in the morning is recommended to beat crowds.
Yes, the ropeway to the summit costs 1,400 yen for a round trip, according to one visitor's experience.
No information on discounts is available in the provided sources. It's best to check official sources if available closer to your visit.
For the ropeway, tickets can likely be purchased on-site. For general park entry, it appears to be freely accessible.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main paths are paved and considered easy, more like a walk. However, trails at the summit can be more challenging, requiring appropriate footwear.
Don't miss the beautiful 30-meter waterfall and the unique pothole rock formations. The surrounding autumn foliage is also a major draw.
Yes, there are vending machines, restrooms, and food stalls located along the path, making it convenient for visitors.
Absolutely! The scenic trails, waterfall, and especially the autumn foliage offer numerous stunning photo opportunities.
Comfortable walking or hiking shoes are essential, especially if you plan to explore beyond the paved paths. Dress in layers as weather can change.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are shops and restaurants located on top of the ravine, accessible from the trails.
Vending machines and food stalls are available along the path, offering refreshments and snacks for visitors.
Specifics on food stall offerings aren't detailed, but they typically provide snacks and light meals suitable for hikers.
While food is available, bringing your own snacks and water is always a good idea, especially if you plan a longer hike or visit during busy times.
Picnic areas are not explicitly mentioned, but the scenic nature of the location makes it a pleasant spot for a packed lunch.
📸 📸 Photography
The waterfall, the pothole formations, and the vibrant autumn foliage are prime subjects. Every part of the trail offers scenic views worth capturing.
Visiting in the morning is recommended to avoid crowds and capture softer, more flattering light. Golden hour during sunrise or sunset can also be magical if accessible.
No, a smartphone camera is perfectly adequate to capture the beauty. However, a camera with good low-light capabilities might be beneficial if you plan to stay until dusk.
Information on drone usage is not provided. It's best to check local regulations or signage at the park regarding drone operation.
Many travelers emphasize capturing the feeling of being surrounded by nature and the vibrant colors of autumn. Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale of the waterfall and ravine.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Make sure to bring snacks and drinks, although vending machines are available. Consider the ropeway option for a fun ride and a different perspective, which can be an exciting experience for kids. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes, as even the 'easy' paths can involve some walking. Visiting in the morning will help avoid peak crowds and make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Be sure to wear appropriate hiking boots, especially if you plan to venture onto less-maintained paths. The area is known for its natural beauty, so allow ample time to explore and appreciate the unique rock formations and the cascading waterfall. Checking for any trail advisories or construction updates before your visit is recommended.
📸 Photographers
To capture the best shots, aim for early morning visits to avoid crowds and utilize the soft, natural light. Consider bringing a tripod for longer exposures of the waterfall or for capturing the vibrant colors of the leaves. Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale and depth of the ravine.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Scenery
For those seeking a bit more adventure, trails at the summit offer a more challenging terrain. It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear for these sections. The highlight for many is the 30-meter waterfall, a stunning natural feature that adds to the ravine's dramatic beauty. The unique pothole rock formations along the riverbed are also a testament to the erosive power of water over time, providing a fascinating geological spectacle.
During autumn, the entire area transforms into a vibrant canvas of red and yellow foliage. This seasonal spectacle is a major draw, with visitors flocking to witness the fiery colors against the backdrop of the ravine and waterfall. Planning your visit during mid-to-late October or early November is key to experiencing this breathtaking display.
Visitor Experience and Amenities
For those who wish to ascend to higher viewpoints without a strenuous hike, a ropeway is available. This offers a different perspective of the surrounding landscape and is a popular option for many visitors. The cost for a round trip on the ropeway is approximately 1,400 yen.
While the main paths are easy, it's important to be prepared for potentially more challenging terrain on summit trails. Wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes is highly recommended. Visitors also note that there can be construction in the area, so being prepared for minor detours or disruptions is advisable. Arriving early in the morning is a common tip to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit