Anmon Falls - Image 1
1 / 3

Anmon Falls

4.6
·33 reviews·Nishimeya, Japan

Experience the raw power of Anmon Falls, a stunning cascade within Japan's Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Site. Hike through ancient beech forests an...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mid-June weekdays

Comfortable temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Anmon Falls - Image 1

Anmon Falls

Best Time

Mid-June weekdays

Comfortable temps, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the raw power of Anmon Falls, a stunning cascade within Japan's Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Site. Hike through ancient beech forests and feel the invigorating spray. TikTok

4.6
(33 reviews)

"The hike was sweaty but pleasant, the waterfall thrilling and exciting with impressive water volume!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🪖 Rent a Helmet!

Essential for safety due to falling rocks. Available for rent at the entrance.

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The path can be slippery and uneven, especially after rain.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Anmon Falls (Second & Third)

Anmon Falls (Second & Third)

Shirakami-Sanchi

Spectacular multi-tiered waterfalls cascading through a lush forest. The volume of water is impressive!

TikTok
Shirakami-Sanchi Beech Forest

Shirakami-Sanchi Beech Forest

Shirakami-Sanchi

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a pristine beech forest offering a serene natural escape.

Instagram
Valley Promenade

Valley Promenade

Anmon Falls trail

A scenic walk along the valley, gradually becoming steeper and deeper, with stunning views.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Helmet Up for Safety

Helmets are mandatory for your safety due to potential falling rocks. Rent them at the mountain entrance for a small fee. This is crucial advice echoed by many visitors who found the terrain challenging. Reddit

Best Footwear and Timing

Wear sturdy hiking shoes as the path can be slippery, especially after rain. Visiting before 11 AM on a weekday, particularly in mid-June, offers fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures. Reddit

Best Times

When
Mid-June weekdays
Why
Comfortable temps, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn
Why
Vibrant fall foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s Three Most Scenic Views, is truly a sight to behold! We visited Amanohashidate Viewland for a stunning bird’s-eye view of the iconic sandbar. Don’t miss trying ‘matanozoki’—the unique tradition of viewing the landscape upside down between your legs. The scenery here, known as 'Hiryukan,' resembles a dragon ascending to the heavens! 🐉☁️ #visitjapanjp #amanohashidate #...
@japanprivatetour
29K likes • 868.6K views

🪖 Rent a Helmet!

Essential for safety due to falling rocks. Available for rent at the entrance. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The path can be slippery and uneven, especially after rain. Reddit

Rent a car on Klook to visit Kyoto by the Sea 🌊 (& use ANGKLOOK for 10% off!) This is the BEST day trip from Kyoto/Osaka 🚙⬇️ 📍Kyoto by the Sea & Amanohashidate VIewland We rented a car and took a 2-hour drive out to this beautiful area, and it honestly made for the perfect little getaway 🤍 If you’re planning a trip, definitely add these spots to your list: Ine (the charming fishing village known a...
@helloangelia
22.4K likes • 413.8K views
Aomori is stunning in every season! No matter when you visit, there’s always something incredible to see and do: 🌳 Anmon Falls – A series of spectacular waterfalls hidden in the forest. 🥾 Michinoku Coastal Trail – A scenic route with breathtaking ocean views. 🌲 Shirakami-Sanchi – A UNESCO World Heritage Site. 🌊 Oirase Gorge – A scenic trail lined with flowing streams and waterfalls. 🍙 Tsugaru Ak...
japantravelcom
219 likes • 16K views

⏰ Go Early on Weekdays

Avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Reddit

💧 Check Weather Conditions

Slippery trails after rain can be challenging. Reddit

青森県 世界遺産 白神山地 暗門の滝 第二の滝 #青森県 #白神山地 #暗門の滝 #aomori #shirakamisanchi #anmonfalls #japantravel
mayukootsuka
65 likes • 373 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🪖 Rent a Helmet!

Essential for safety due to falling rocks. Available for rent at the entrance. Reddit

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The path can be slippery and uneven, especially after rain. Reddit

⏰ Go Early on Weekdays

Avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Reddit

💧 Check Weather Conditions

Slippery trails after rain can be challenging. Reddit

💰 Environmental Contribution

Optional 500 yen contribution for a commemorative card and badge. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(33 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the thrilling experience of Anmon Falls, praising the impressive water volume and the refreshing negative ions. The hike through the Shirakami-Sanchi beech forest is a highlight, though some find the terrain challenging and slippery, emphasizing the importance of helmets and proper footwear. Access to the first waterfall requires a guide and is considered more difficult. Reddit

"The hike to the Shirakami Mountains and the Anmon Falls was quite a sweaty one, but the green trees and the murmuring of the water made it a very pleasant experience. The waterfall was thrilling and exciting, and the volume of water was impressive. The negative ions were amazing."

Chan “imoko” Imo

"I went on a weekend in mid-June, before the rainy season began.
It was a comfortable time, not too hot.
It was before 11am on a weekend, but there were few people around.
Thanks to this, I was able to walk up the narrow path to the waterfall without rushing.
The waterfalls don't have a very high drop, but they are well worth seeing.
Only the third and second falls are open to the public.

There seems to be falling rocks, so a helmet is essential.
They are available to rent at the mountain entrance office."

T WATAZAWA

"I had longed to visit Anmon Falls, but the ground was wet after the rain and a little slippery, which was a bit scary.

I couldn't reach the first waterfall, but it was still well worth seeing. I had been scoffing at the idea of ​​a helmet, thinking it was a bit much, like it would just crush me if a rock fell on me and I didn't see the point. But along the way, there was a fairly deep river to the right and rocks covering the left. I can't swim... If I fell, there was nowhere to get out, so I thought to myself, I wish I had a life jacket instead of a helmet. I hit my head on the rocks covering me several times along the way, lol.

I see, that's why I needed a helmet, I thought, and regretted not coming here when I was a little younger.

As a woman in her 60s, it didn't seem like the kind of place I'd come alone. But it was exciting, the scenery was beautiful, and it was fun.

Apparently, you can only reach the first waterfall with a guide, and it seems like you're walking on a steep slope without a path, so it seemed quite dangerous.
On the way back we walked around the beech forest."

レン

What People Like

Impressive waterfalls
Refreshing negative ions
Beautiful forest scenery

What People Dislike

Slippery trails
Steep sections

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Anmon Falls is located within the Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Site in Aomori Prefecture. The most common access point is via Aqua Green Village ANMON, which offers parking. From there, you'll embark on a hike. InstagramReddit

Yes, parking is available at Aqua Green Village ANMON, which serves as a convenient starting point for the hike to the falls. Reddit

Information on direct public transport to the immediate vicinity of Anmon Falls can be limited. It's often recommended to drive or consider organized tours that include transportation to the Shirakami-Sanchi area. Research local bus routes from nearby towns if relying on public transport. TikTok

The Shirakami-Sanchi area is best accessed by car for flexibility. If using public transport, you might need to combine train and bus services to reach gateway towns, then arrange local transport or tours. Instagram

Yes, guided tours are available, especially if you wish to access areas beyond the publicly accessible second and third waterfalls, such as the first waterfall which requires a guide. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While there isn't a strict entrance ticket fee for the falls themselves, there's an environmental maintenance fee or contribution requested at the entrance, typically around 500 yen. Reddit

The trails to Anmon Falls are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check local information for specific seasonal operating times or any temporary closures. TikTok

Yes, helmets are available for rent at the mountain entrance office for a small fee, usually around 100 yen. Reddit

Anmon Falls is best visited during the warmer months, from spring to autumn. Winter access may be restricted or impossible due to snow and ice. Instagram

The environmental maintenance fee contributes to the preservation and upkeep of the Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Site, ensuring its natural beauty is maintained for future visitors. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The hike from the entrance to the third and second waterfalls typically takes about 40-45 minutes one way. The trail gradually becomes steeper. Reddit

The hike is considered moderate. The initial part is a flat footpath, but it becomes steeper and the valley deepens as you approach the falls. Sturdy footwear is recommended. Reddit

Anmon Falls is a series of three waterfalls. The publicly accessible ones are the second and third falls. The first fall requires a guide and is considered more challenging to reach. Reddit

Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes. Layers of clothing are advisable as the weather can change. Bring water and snacks. Reddit

The hike can be challenging for very young children due to the slippery and steep sections. Parents should assess their child's capabilities and ensure they have appropriate footwear and supervision. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoints along the valley promenade offer great perspectives of the falls and the surrounding lush greenery. Capture the power of the water and the serene forest. TikTok

You can get relatively close to the second and third waterfalls along the designated path. Be mindful of the slippery surfaces and the spray from the falls. Reddit

Morning light can be beautiful, filtering through the trees. However, the falls are impressive throughout the day. Consider the weather for dramatic shots. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in natural parks and World Heritage Sites to protect wildlife and the environment. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the waterfalls and the forest. A tripod can help with longer exposures to smooth the water. Protect your gear from moisture. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Anmon Falls offers a fantastic nature adventure for families, but requires some preparation. The hike to the second and third falls is manageable for older children who are comfortable with uneven terrain and some inclines. Sturdy, non-slip shoes are a must for everyone. Reddit Remember to rent helmets for all family members, as they are mandatory for safety. Reddit Pack plenty of water and snacks, and consider visiting earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat and potential crowds. The experience of seeing the powerful waterfalls and walking through the ancient forest can be truly memorable for kids. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts

For those who love to hike and immerse themselves in nature, Anmon Falls and the surrounding Shirakami-Sanchi area are a dream. The trails offer a moderate challenge with rewarding scenery. Consider hiring a guide if you're keen to explore beyond the main falls and experience more remote parts of the park. Reddit The opportunity to walk through a UNESCO World Heritage beech forest is a significant draw. Remember to check trail conditions, especially after rain, and be prepared for varying weather. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Majesty of Anmon Falls

Anmon Falls, nestled within the Shirakami-Sanchi World Heritage Site, is a breathtaking natural spectacle comprising three distinct waterfalls. While the first waterfall is accessible only with a guide and involves a more strenuous trek, the second and third waterfalls are readily reachable via a well-maintained, albeit increasingly steep, promenade. Visitors consistently remark on the impressive volume of water and the invigorating negative ions in the air, creating a truly refreshing experience. TikTokReddit

The hike itself is part of the adventure, winding through a beautiful valley. The path transitions from a gentle footpath to a more rugged ascent, demanding sturdy footwear and a sense of adventure. The surrounding beech forest adds to the serene atmosphere, making the journey as rewarding as the destination. InstagramReddit

Safety is paramount here, with helmets being mandatory due to the risk of falling rocks. These can be rented at the entrance, a small price to pay for peace of mind. The experience is often described as thrilling and exciting, even for those who might initially question the necessity of the helmet. Reddit

Exploring Shirakami-Sanchi

Shirakami-Sanchi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its vast, untouched beech forests, representing one of the last remaining primeval forests in Japan. This ecological treasure is a haven for biodiversity, home to unique flora and fauna. The Anmon Falls are a key attraction within this expansive natural park, offering a glimpse into its raw beauty. Instagram+1

Beyond the falls, the Shirakami-Sanchi area offers numerous hiking trails and opportunities for nature immersion. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems, from dense forests to clear mountain streams. The area is particularly stunning during autumn when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold. Instagram

Preserving this natural wonder is a collective effort. Visitors are encouraged to follow designated trails, minimize their impact, and respect the environment. The environmental maintenance fee collected at Anmon Falls directly contributes to the ongoing conservation of this invaluable natural heritage. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2