Kawazu Seven Falls Hike
The Kawazu Seven Falls hike is a half-mile trail (1km) that traverses springs, rushing rivers, and a series of seven stunning waterfalls through the jungle of Kawazu. A mountainous area filled with trees and stupendous biodiversity, this UNESCO Global Geopark is a can’t-miss spot for nature lovers, hiking aficionados, and anyone looking to reconnect with nature. Next time you explore the Izu Peninsula, don’t skip this gorgeous spot in the Japanese countryside.
Kawazu Seven Falls
Hours: 24 Hours
Admission Fee: None
Address: Nashimoto, Kawazu
Kamo District, Shizuoka 413-0501, Japan
Designation: UNESCO Global Geopark
Parking: Free
Nearest Bus Stop: Kawazu Nanadaru Onsen
Nearest Train Stop: Shinagawa station to Kawazu station
Above: Deai-daru Falls
How to Reach Kawazu Seven Falls
We spent a week road-tripping around the Izu Peninsula, hiking, exploring the mountainside and small villages, swimming at the breathtaking beaches, and making as many stops as we desired. I cannot recommend driving enough.
Though public transportation exists, it is infrequent (think once every four, six, or twenty-four hours). It also takes quite a bit of time to get from spot to spot in this area. Driving is simple and convenient!
Otherwise, use Google Maps from your starting point to take the trains and buses to Kawazu Nanadaru Onsen. The journey takes riders through some of the most beautiful countryside landscapes in Japan!
What to Bring
We brought swimwear, towels, drinks, hiking shoes, bug spray, and waterproof housing for my camera. Be sure to take out any garbage you create and leave no trace. There are restrooms nearby to change into swimwear at the final, largest fall and the trailhead. If you’d prefer, there are food trucks, food stalls, and vending machines near the parking lot/trailhead, too.
The Falls
These photos barely do it justice. We visited just after a morning rainstorm, which meant we had the entire path, falls, and pools to ourselves. Rain plinked from the leaves, water rushed past us, and the roaring of the falls drowned out our troubles. Kawazu Seven Falls ended up being one of my favorite places in all of Japan, which is really saying something because Japan is glorious in every season, no matter where we’ve gone.
Above: Shokeideru Falls & pool
Swimming here was an unforgettable experience. The pools weren’t too strong, and there was a slight current, but the cool spring water from higher up in the mountains was terribly refreshing. After hiking the entire day, swimming in the falls was the perfect way to cool off.
Follow my adventures in the Izu Peninsula and Japan.
