Magome Waterfall
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Magome Waterfall

4.5
·231 reviews·Nagiso, Japan

A charming natural stop along the historic Nakasendo Trail, featuring two distinct waterfalls: Odaki and Medaki.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Crisp air, vibrant foliage

CrowdLow
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Magome Waterfall

Magome Waterfall

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Crisp air, vibrant foliage

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming natural stop along the historic Nakasendo Trail, featuring two distinct waterfalls: Odaki and Medaki.

4.5
(231 reviews)

"A tiny waterfall on the way of Nakasendo detour path but it worths a visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

Short Detour, Big Reward

The waterfall is a short, worthwhile detour from the Nakasendo Trail. Don't miss it!

Watch Your Step!

Paths can be icy and slippery in winter. Be cautious, as there are no guardrails.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Odaki (Male Waterfall)

Odaki (Male Waterfall)

Off Nakasendo Trail

The larger of the two falls, cascading approximately 10 meters. A powerful sight, especially after rain.

Medaki (Female Waterfall)

Medaki (Female Waterfall)

Off Nakasendo Trail

A slightly smaller, delicate cascade, offering a serene contrast to its male counterpart.

Nakasendo Trail Views

Nakasendo Trail Views

Along the path

Enjoy the scenic beauty of the ancient post road, with the waterfalls providing a perfect natural interlude.

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Planning Your Visit

Detour for Nature's Beauty

Magome Waterfall is a charming detour off the main Nakasendo Trail between Magome and Tsumago. It's a short walk, but be prepared for potentially slippery paths, especially in winter. The 'male' and 'female' falls offer a refreshing break and photo opportunities.

Best Footwear for the Trail

While the detour to Magome Waterfall is short, the Nakasendo Trail itself involves significant hiking. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, especially if visiting in winter when paths can be icy and slippery. Avoid open-toed footwear.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Crisp air, vibrant foliage
Crowd
Low
When
After rainfall
Why
Waterfalls are full and impressive
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter (with caution)
Why
Unique icy beauty, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🥾🌿✨A big day on the Nakasendo Trail — hiking from Magome to Tsumago with a little waterfall detour half way. Nearly 12km of ups, downs, waterfalls and beautiful forest paths. It was a massive effort from the kids, but no surprise that Teddy tapped out towards the end… one brief carry and he was out like a light 😴 One of their favourite parts? Spotting the bear bells and giving each one a good r...
trensmithfield
8 likes • 350 views

Short Detour, Big Reward

The waterfall is a short, worthwhile detour from the Nakasendo Trail. Don't miss it! Reddit

Watch Your Step!

Paths can be icy and slippery in winter. Be cautious, as there are no guardrails. Reddit

If you are walking on the Nakasendo Magome walking trail and pass the sign for the waterfalls, then please go there, it’s beautiful! It has been raining a lot in this area lately, so the cascades are totally full of water and very impressive to watch! #nakasendotrail #waterfall #walk #walkinginthewoods #kannadigatraveller #karnataka #india #travel #trips #trekkersofindia #lovejapan #indian_trekke...
nextstopkannadavlogs
33 likes • 384 views
The Medaki waterfall is located along the Nakasendo trail between Magome and Tsumago. It has been captured in literature in the work 'Miyamoto Musashi' by Eiji Yoshikawa. Miyamoto Musashi was a famous Japanese swordsman and strategist born in the 16th century, who is still well known in Japan. Yoshikawa's novel about the swordsman was a huge success in 20th century Japan. In the book, the Medaki...
okujapantravel
256 likes • 4.4K views

Perfect Photo Spot

Great for scenic photos and a refreshing break. Bring your camera! Instagram

Feel the Mist

Get close enough to feel the cool mist, especially on a warm day. Reddit

Ini dia 4 spot destinasi menarik yang bisa kalian kunjungi kalo lagi traveling di prefektur Gifu, Jepang. 📍竜神の滝【岐阜】 Gifu - Ryujin waterfalls 📍飛騨の里【岐阜】 Gifu - Hida no Sato 📍岩門の滝【岐阜】 Gifu - Iwamon waterfall 📍馬籠宿【岐阜】 Gifu - Magome-juku Thank you @howell.wakayama for the video! #japan #japantravel #japantrip #visitjapan #discoverjapan #traveljapan #traveling #gifu #gifujapan #gifuprefecture
bipi.id
962 likes • 24.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Short Detour, Big Reward

The waterfall is a short, worthwhile detour from the Nakasendo Trail. Don't miss it! Reddit

Watch Your Step!

Paths can be icy and slippery in winter. Be cautious, as there are no guardrails. Reddit

Perfect Photo Spot

Great for scenic photos and a refreshing break. Bring your camera! Instagram

Feel the Mist

Get close enough to feel the cool mist, especially on a warm day. Reddit

Literary Connection

The Medaki waterfall is mentioned in 'Miyamoto Musashi.' Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(231 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Magome Waterfall is a highly recommended, scenic detour off the Nakasendo Trail, praised for its natural beauty and refreshing atmosphere. Visitors enjoy the dual cascades and the opportunity for great photos. Some caution is advised during winter due to slippery conditions.

"Tiny waterfall on the way of Nakasendo detour path but it worths a visit. Some nice photos and break time is nice with the chill water. The male waterfall is slightly bigger than the female one."

Luke L'sk

"Odaki (“male waterfall”) is approximately 10 meters high, while Medaki (“female waterfall”) is slightly smaller.

Both are located just off the Nakasendo trail (short detour of approximately 250 meter) and are easy to reach on foot."

Anna Krzak

"Scenic waterfall along the nakasendo trail between tsumago and Magome. Falls are named male falls and female falls. Crisp autumn foliage that is on the cusp of the turning red. It would be fabulous in full fall colours.

This was probably the highlight of the hike."

Jeremy Lim

What People Like

Beautiful dual waterfalls
Refreshing mist
Scenic trail detour

What People Dislike

Slippery in winter

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Magome Waterfall is located along the Nakasendo Trail, between the post towns of Magome and Tsumago. You'll need to hike a portion of the trail to reach it. The detour to the falls is approximately 250 meters off the main path. Reddit

No, Magome Waterfall is only accessible by foot via the Nakasendo Trail. This is a hiking route, so plan accordingly. Instagram

The Nakasendo Trail is an ancient route that connected Kyoto and Edo (Tokyo) during the Edo period. Hiking sections of it, like the one between Magome and Tsumago, offers a glimpse into historical Japan. Instagram

The detour to the waterfall itself is a short walk of about 250 meters from the main Nakasendo Trail. The overall hike from Magome to Tsumago is around 12 kilometers. TikTok

Yes, there are signs indicating the detour to the waterfalls along the Nakasendo Trail. It's hard to miss if you're paying attention. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to visit Magome Waterfall. It is a natural attraction along the public Nakasendo Trail. Reddit

As a natural attraction, Magome Waterfall does not have set opening hours. It is accessible whenever the Nakasendo Trail is open. Instagram

The falls are most impressive after heavy rain. Spring and autumn offer pleasant hiking weather and beautiful foliage. Winter can be beautiful but requires caution due to ice. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can visit Magome Waterfall year-round. However, winter conditions can make the paths icy and slippery, so extra care is needed. Reddit

No, there is no visitor center directly at Magome Waterfall. It's a natural spot along the hiking trail. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You'll find two distinct waterfalls: Odaki (the 'male waterfall,' about 10 meters high) and Medaki (the 'female waterfall,' slightly smaller). The area is scenic and offers a refreshing natural break. Reddit

While the water looks inviting, swimming is generally not recommended due to the cold temperatures and potentially strong currents. It's best enjoyed for viewing and cooling off with mist. Instagram

Restrooms and shops are typically found in the post towns of Magome and Tsumago, not directly at the waterfall detour. It's advisable to use facilities before or after your hike. Instagram

Absolutely! The waterfalls, surrounding nature, and the ancient trail provide excellent opportunities for photography. Instagram+1

Most visitors spend about 15-30 minutes at the waterfall, enjoying the views, taking photos, and resting before continuing their hike. Reddit

🎫 👟 Hiking & Trails

Sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good grip are highly recommended. The trail can be uneven, and paths near the waterfall can be slippery, especially in wet or icy conditions. Reddit

The hike is considered moderately challenging, with some uphill and downhill sections. It's about 12 km and takes around 3-4 hours. The waterfall detour is a small, easy addition. TikTok

Be mindful of slippery surfaces, especially in winter. There are no guardrails near the waterfall, so exercise caution. Reddit

Yes, children can hike the trail, but it requires a good level of stamina. The waterfall detour is manageable for most kids. TikTok

Bring water, snacks, a camera, and wear appropriate footwear. A light rain jacket is also advisable, as you might get misted by the falls. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The hike from Magome to Tsumago, including the detour to Magome Waterfall, can be a rewarding adventure for families. While the main trail is about 12 km, the waterfall detour is short and manageable. TikTok Ensure children wear appropriate footwear, as paths can be uneven. The sight of the waterfalls is often a highlight for younger visitors, offering a natural spectacle and a chance to cool off with mist. Reddit Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider the stamina of your children for the longer trail sections.

🚶 Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love hiking and natural beauty, the Nakasendo Trail section to Magome Waterfall is a must-do. The trail offers a blend of historical significance and stunning natural landscapes. Instagram+1 The waterfalls themselves are a beautiful reward, especially after rain when they are at their most impressive. Instagram Consider visiting in spring or autumn for the most pleasant hiking conditions and vibrant scenery. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Magome Waterfall and its surroundings are a photographer's dream. The cascading water, lush greenery, and the historic Nakasendo Trail provide diverse subjects. Instagram+1 Capture the power of Odaki, the grace of Medaki, and the scenic beauty of the ancient path. Visiting after rainfall will enhance the drama of the falls. Instagram Remember to protect your gear from mist and consider visiting during golden hour for softer light.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Nakasendo Trail: A Journey Through Time

The Nakasendo Trail is one of Japan's most famous historic routes, connecting Kyoto and Edo (modern-day Tokyo) during the Edo period. It was a vital artery for merchants, samurai, and pilgrims. The section between Magome and Tsumago is particularly well-preserved and popular with hikers, offering a tangible connection to Japan's past. Walking this path feels like stepping back in time, with traditional wooden buildings and stone-paved sections.

Magome Waterfall is a delightful natural interlude along this historic journey. It's a testament to the enduring beauty of the Japanese landscape that has captivated travelers for centuries. The presence of the waterfalls, mentioned even in historical literature like 'Miyamoto Musashi,' adds another layer of cultural significance to the experience. Instagram+1

Understanding Odaki and Medaki

Magome Waterfall is actually comprised of two distinct cascades: Odaki, meaning 'male waterfall,' and Medaki, meaning 'female waterfall.' Odaki is the larger of the two, standing approximately 10 meters tall, and is often described as more powerful. Medaki is slightly smaller and offers a more delicate, serene beauty. The proximity of these two falls, side-by-side, creates a unique natural spectacle that draws visitors. Reddit

These falls are not just visually appealing; they are also a source of refreshment. The cool mist generated by the cascading water can be a welcome respite, especially during warmer months. Travelers often pause here to enjoy the sound of the water and the crisp, clean air before continuing their trek along the Nakasendo. Reddit

Navigating the Trail in Different Seasons

Visiting Magome Waterfall and the Nakasendo Trail offers a different experience depending on the season. Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage, making the area particularly picturesque. InstagramReddit

Summer can be warm, but the waterfall's mist provides a cooling effect. However, be prepared for potential rain showers. Winter presents a unique charm with icy formations and a serene, quiet atmosphere. However, visitors must exercise extreme caution as the paths, especially near the waterfall, can become very icy and slippery, with no guardrails. Reddit Sturdy, waterproof footwear with excellent grip is essential during winter months.

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