Kamuiwakka Falls in Japan

Kamuiwakka Falls in Japan offers an ultimate hot spring experience. Kamuiwakka Falls, also known as Kammuiwakka-no-taki, is located amidst the mountainous peninsula of Shiretoko National Park. Shiretoko is renowned for its verdant forests and peaceful environs sheltering a large population of brown bears. The Park encloses five tranquil lakes known as Shiretoko Go-ko. These peaceful lakes are a little distance away from the waterfalls. The falls offer the best onsen experience in the world. In order to reach the falls tourists have to cross a warm mountain stream and crossing small waterfalls on the way. If you are not planning to hike for several days, the only way to view this steep stream is to watch the breathtaking cascades on boat cruises in Utoro. After reaching the destination, you can take a hot spring bath at the base of the waterfall. The water is cooler at the bottom and warmer at the top. People are allowed to wear swimming suits unlike most of the hot springs in Japan. You have to be very cautious as you hike up the sharply inclined stream. It is slippery at some spots. It is advisable to wade through the water than at the steeply inclined edges of the stream. You must carry suitable shoes, special climbing socks or conventional straw footwear.

Kamuiwakka Falls in Japan is a sight of endless beauty. July and August are peak months when tourists throng Japan to get a breathtaking view of the falls. With the onset of winter, the falls become difficult to access. The falls are a cascading thermal river, which makes for a unique bathing experience in several pools. The topmost pool is the hottest and most beautiful. You can relax near the trees and hear the cascading flow of the water as you wet yourself in the tranquil waters. The water is slightly acidic in content. Minor cuts and injuries may burn once you get in. So try and get in slowly. The water is a good tonic for neurotic ailments. You can plan a day trip to Kamuiwakka falls from Iwaobetsu, Utoro or even Shari. Do not plan an overnight stay as no accommodation is available. Utoro however offers a variety of accommodation options to choose from.

How to Reach Kamuiwakka Falls in Japan:

By car: The 10 kilometer dirt road from the Shiretoko Five Lakes to the Kamuiwakka Falls is shut to private modes of transport due to construction work. A bus will provide access to the trailhead to the falls.

By Bus: Shuttle buses ply between Shiretoko Nature Center and the trailhead to Kamuiwakka Falls from mid July to mid September.

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