Katashina River

Overview

The Katashina River is a first-class river of the Tone River system flowing through northeastern Gunma Prefecture. Rising among the mountains linked to the Oze highlands and descending toward the Numata area, it has carved gorges and waterfalls, and its powerful current and clear water create striking scenery. It is especially known for Fukiware Falls along its course, and the river itself stands as a symbol of nature tourism in northern Gunma.

Highlights

• ●Fukiware Falls, known as the Niagara of the East
• ●Dramatic gorge scenery carved out of the bedrock
• ●Clear waters rising from the mountains near Oze
• ●Riverside nature that changes color with the seasons

History

For ages the Katashina River has shaped the land as part of the Tone River system, cutting out gorges and waterfalls. Over long spans of time its flow has ground into the bedrock, producing distinctive landscapes such as Fukiware Falls, and it has been closely tied to local life and tourism. For detailed history and geology, please refer to on-site guides and official information.

Map

36.6157, 139.0433 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Drive along the Katashina River from central Numata toward Oze
2. 2Walk the Fukiware Falls trail to feel the force of the water
3. 3Take photos from a viewpoint overlooking the gorge
4. 4Ease your travel fatigue at nearby hot springs or eateries

Did you know?

💡 Fukiware Falls, the signature sight of the Katashina River, is nicknamed the Niagara of the East for the way the water pours through a split in the wide bedrock. Part of the appeal of the Katashina is how a single river shows so many faces, from mountains upstream to gorge scenery downstream.

Nearby spots