Ohko-no-taki Waterfall
A breathtaking 88-meter waterfall on Yakushima Island, one of Japan's top 100, set amidst ancient forests.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Ohko-no-taki Waterfall
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 88-meter waterfall on Yakushima Island, one of Japan's top 100, set amidst ancient forests.
"Utterly magnificent. The road of the waterfall and the sheer size of it were a sight to behold."
🎯 Bus Travel Caution
Buses to Ohko-no-taki are infrequent (4 per day). Plan meticulously or risk a long wait!
💦 Prepare for Spray
You can get close to the falls, so expect to get wet from the powerful spray!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ohko-no-taki Waterfall
Yakushima Island
Witness an 88-meter cascade, one of Japan's top 100 waterfalls, plunging into a refreshing pool.
The Enchanting Forest
Yakushima Island
Explore ancient cedar forests that inspired Studio Ghibli's 'Princess Mononoke'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Yakushima
Best Time for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bus Travel Caution
Buses to Ohko-no-taki are infrequent (4 per day). Plan meticulously or risk a long wait!
💦 Prepare for Spray
You can get close to the falls, so expect to get wet from the powerful spray!
🚗 Car Rental Advantage
Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Yakushima's diverse attractions.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit late afternoon for stunning light and fewer people.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bus Travel Caution
Buses to Ohko-no-taki are infrequent (4 per day). Plan meticulously or risk a long wait!
💦 Prepare for Spray
You can get close to the falls, so expect to get wet from the powerful spray!
🚗 Car Rental Advantage
Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Yakushima's diverse attractions.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit late afternoon for stunning light and fewer people.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ohko-no-taki Waterfall for its magnificent scale and impressive cascade, often calling it a must-see on Yakushima. The accessibility and the sheer power of the water are frequently highlighted as positives. Some note the limited bus service as a drawback, requiring careful planning.
"I took the bus there. You need to make sure that you get on the correct bus because they go to different locations. It will be the last stop on the bus and after you have 40 min until the next bus arrives .
Waterfall is top 100 in Japan. And it’s definitely impressive"
Kelly Michalak
"Beautiful waterfall. It’s a quick visit, but worth it!"
Christian Larsen
"Beautiful and accessible view of the waterfall. There’s also a bus stop nearby (with only 4 buses each direction per day). The other option is to walk 4.5 Km to Kuriobashi station."
Noga Brami
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ohko-no-taki Waterfall is located on Yakushima Island. You can reach Yakushima by ferry or plane from Kagoshima. On the island, the waterfall is accessible via a short walk from a parking lot or a nearby bus stop. However, bus services are very limited, with only four buses running in each direction daily, so careful planning is essential.
Getting around Yakushima can be challenging. While a bus system exists, routes are infrequent and may require significant waiting times between services. Many visitors find renting a car to be the most convenient option for exploring the island's various attractions, including Ohko-no-taki Waterfall.
From the nearest bus stop, it's a short walk to Ohko-no-taki Waterfall. If you miss the bus or prefer to walk further, it's approximately 4.5 km to Kuriobashi station.
Yes, there is a parking lot near Ohko-no-taki Waterfall, making it accessible for those who have rented a car. This is often the most straightforward way to visit.
Yakushima is known for its numerous waterfalls. Other notable falls include Senpiro Falls and Toroki Falls, which are sometimes visited in conjunction with Ohko-no-taki.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no admission fees or tickets required to visit Ohko-no-taki Waterfall. It is a natural attraction accessible to the public.
Ohko-no-taki Waterfall is a natural site and does not have set opening or closing hours. It can be visited at any time, though late afternoon is recommended for photography.
No, there is no entrance fee for Ohko-no-taki Waterfall. Access to the natural beauty of the falls is free.
While the plunge pool looks inviting, swimming is generally not advised due to the powerful water flow and potential hazards. Some visitors express a desire to swim, especially in warmer months.
Yes, Ohko-no-taki Waterfall is accessible year-round. However, weather on Yakushima can be unpredictable, so it's advisable to check conditions before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The late afternoon, especially around sunset, offers the most magical lighting for photographs at Ohko-no-taki Waterfall. This time also tends to have fewer visitors, allowing for better shots.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the full scale of the waterfall. Consider a tripod for sharper images in lower light conditions and a rain cover for your camera due to the spray.
Yes, you can get fairly close to the base of Ohko-no-taki Waterfall. Be prepared for significant water spray, which can create a beautiful misty effect in photos but also requires protecting your equipment.
While some drone footage exists of Yakushima's waterfalls,
The area at the base of the waterfall offers dramatic perspectives. The path leading to the falls also provides scenic views. Using the scale of people or objects can help emphasize the waterfall's immense size.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with kids, consider renting a car for easier transport between sites. Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities can be sparse. The island's natural beauty provides ample opportunities for exploration and wonder, making it a memorable family adventure.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
While public transport is an option, it requires diligent planning.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Yakushima's Ancient Forests
Exploring these forests involves hiking trails that wind through towering trees and past unique flora. The air is crisp and clean, filled with the sounds of nature. It's a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the natural world. Many visitors feel a profound sense of peace and wonder while trekking through these ancient woodlands.
Key areas to explore include Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine, which offers accessible trails through the heart of the forest, and Jomon Sugi, the island's oldest and largest cedar tree, though reaching it requires a strenuous hike. The experience of walking among these ancient giants is a highlight for many who visit Yakushima, offering a glimpse into a primeval world.
Navigating Yakushima: Transport Tips
Many travelers opt to rent a car upon arrival at the ferry port or airport. This provides the greatest freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace, allowing you to visit multiple waterfalls like Ohko-no-taki, Senpiro, and Toroki Falls
+1 without being constrained by bus timetables. Car rental is particularly recommended if you plan to visit more remote areas or hike to attractions like Jomon Sugi.For those committed to using public transport, it's advisable to purchase a bus pass if available and to meticulously study the bus timetables in advance. Apps or local information centers can be invaluable resources for navigating the island's transport network. Be prepared for a slower pace of travel and embrace the journey as part of the Yakushima experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit