Overview
Bandokoro Falls is a celebrated waterfall in the Norikura Highlands at Azumi-Bandokoro in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture. The sight of its abundant water plunging forcefully down the rock face is thrilling, and it ranks among the signature scenic spots of the Norikura Highlands. Surrounded by deep forest, the falls draw closer with spray and roar as you approach the basin, letting you feel the raw power of nature along with the clear highland air.
Highlights
- ●A celebrated waterfall representing the Norikura Highlands, its abundant water spilling down the rock face
- ●A trail that lets you approach the basin, with the force of spray and roar
- ●The deep forest nature of the Norikura Highlands surrounding the falls
- ●The interplay of falls with fresh greenery and autumn colors that shift by season
History
Bandokoro Falls lies in the Bandokoro district of Azumi in Matsumoto, nurtured within the natural setting of the Norikura Highlands at the foot of Mount Norikura. The name of the falls, read as Bandokoro-otaki or Bandoko-otaki, derives from the place name Bandokoro. The highland area has long been a land bound up with pilgrimages to Mount Norikura and the bounty of the mountains, and the falls have been cherished as a symbol of its natural scenery. For details of its origins, it is best to consult on-site guidance or official information.
Access
Located at Azumi-Bandokoro in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, at roughly 36.13 degrees north and 137.66 degrees east. From central Matsumoto, head toward the Norikura Highlands and reach the falls on foot along the highland trails. As part of the path descends stairway-like sections toward the basin, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Public transport, road conditions, and trail opening periods vary by season, so check the latest through official information.
Best season
Early summer, when the fresh greenery dazzles, and autumn, when the Norikura Highlands take on their colors, are the seasons when the falls and forest look most beautiful. After the snowmelt or rain, the volume of water swells, showing an even more powerful appearance. As the highlands sit at high elevation and turn cold morning and night, bring a layer even in summer, and watch your footing on the slippery trails. The trail may be closed in winter.
Map
36.1284, 137.6575 · Wikidata
Suggested itinerary
- 1Head from central Matsumoto toward the Norikura Highlands to the Bandokoro Falls entrance
- 2Descend the trail toward the basin to feel the power of the great falls
- 3Stroll the forest trail while savoring the clear highland air
- 4Enjoy a waterfall tour combined with other falls and sights of the Norikura Highlands
Did you know?
💡 The Bandokoro in the falls' name comes from the local place name. Besides Bandokoro Falls, several other waterfalls are scattered across the Norikura Highlands, and a waterfall-touring route linking them by trail is a popular way to explore.
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