A waterfall that represents the beauty of the gorge in Nasu-Shiobara
Nasu-Shiobara is located at the northern end of Tochigi Prefecture. Ryuuka Falls is in the Shiobara Gorge which has the picturesque nature of Nikko National Park and onsen rich with hot spring water. Among the 100 or so waterfalls in the area, there are the especially beautiful 10 Major Waterfalls of Shiobara of which Ryuuka is at the top of the list. At a total length of 130m, making it the longest waterfall, the sight of the huge quantities of water being squeezed down through the 3 levels of precipitous rock is a spectacle that seems to be rushing right at you. The surrounding rock is black and rough and after being carved over many, many years, it further brings out the white waterfall so that you can feel the vibrancy of the great land. There is an observation platform set up directly below the waterfall so that you can view it at a close distance. Please be aware that after a heavy rain, the amount of water coming down will be enough to drench your clothes.
Enjoy the journey to the waterfall through the nature trail
There is a nature trail that begins from the parking lot along the national highway. Although the trail which takes 40 minutes for a round trip has a lot of undulations, it is not a difficult road and is very easy to traverse. Ryuuka Falls is the terminus for the trail but there are other waterfalls along the way. From the entrance to Ryuuka, there is Nuno Falls which overlooks the Hokigawa River. And just ahead, there is Fukyo Falls which has a drop of 10m. From the suspension bridge, you can also observe rock wall formations known as columnar joints (developed column-shaped fissures inside the rock). The season of fresh greenery is a fine time but the trail is especially beautiful during autumn due to the many maple trees in the area. There is another waterfall nearby which is also one of the 10 Major Waterfalls of Shiobara, Mikaeri Falls along with the Momiji Gorge Suspension Bridge, so that you can enjoy the beauty of Shiobara Gorge to your heart’s content.