Otodome Falls

Overview

Otodome Falls is a waterfall in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka Prefecture, about 25 m high and 5 m wide, dropping over the Shiba River. Designated a national Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument, it is counted, together with the nearby Shiraito Falls, among Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls. Its charm lies in the powerful roar of water plunging all at once, a striking contrast to the delicate Shiraito Falls close by.

Highlights

• ●The powerful flow plunging from about 25 m
• ●A nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument
• ●The name's origin tied to the Tale of the Soga Brothers
• ●The contrast with Shiraito Falls, a five-minute walk away

History

Otodome Falls is designated a national Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument. It was also named one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls in a list published by the Ministry of the Environment in 1990. Its name traces to the Kamakura-period Tale of the Soga Brothers: while on a hunt at the foot of Mount Fuji with Minamoto no Yoritomo, the brothers plotted to avenge their father against Kudo Suketsune, but the roar of the falls drowned out their voices, until, upon their prayer, the water is said to have fallen silent.

Map

35.3122, 138.5892 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Arrive in the falls area of Fujinomiya
2. 2Take in the powerful cascade of Otodome Falls
3. 3Walk about five minutes to also see Shiraito Falls
4. 4Enjoy views at the foot of Mount Fuji and local cuisine

Did you know?

💡 The name 'Otodome' (sound-stopping) comes from the Tale of the Soga Brothers, in which the roar of the falls is said to have ceased when the brothers prayed while plotting in secret. It forms a fine contrast in force with the delicate Shiraito Falls right beside it.

Nearby spots