A Trip to Gunma’s Hidden Gem, Fukiwari Falls
Hello Private Wisdom readers! Are you looking for a trip to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and refresh your mind? This time, I actually visited Fukiwari Falls in Numata City, located in the northern part of Gunma Prefecture. This waterfall is also known as the “Niagara of the East” and is known for its grand scale, measuring 30 meters wide and 7 meters high, but its charm lies in its surprisingly unexplored and unexplored nature. As introduced on Gunma Prefecture ‘s official tourism website ( Gunma Prefecture Tourism Official Website ), it is located in the upper reaches of the Tone River, which is rich in nature, and offers scenery that changes from season to season. I visited last fall and was overwhelmed by the beauty of the valley in the autumn colors. In this article, based on my own experience, I will provide detailed information on how to access the area and recommend ways to enjoy it. I am sure it will inspire your next trip.
When I visited Fukiwari Falls, the first thing that caught my eye was the stream of water falling down the rock face. Surrounded by a deep green forest, the misty spray around the falls was like a fantastic painting. The texture of the rock is craggy gray granite, which glistens in the sunlight and surrounds you with cool air. This visual provided such a soothing reminder of everyday life.
- Access by car: Approximately 2 hours from Tokyo on the Kan-etsu Expressway, 30 minutes from the Numata IC.
- By public transportation: Approximately 1 hour by bus from Numata Station on the JR Joetsu Line.
- Best time to visit: Especially recommended during the fall foliage season.
Q&A: What is Fukiwari Falls like?
Q: Where does the name “Fukiwari Falls” come from? A: The name comes from the fact that it looks like a rock has been blown apart. You can feel the power of nature.
Q: Are there any accommodations nearby? A: There are many hot spring resorts nearby, and I stayed at a local ryokan where the hot spring water was excellent.
Walking routes and attractions around Fukiwari Falls
Based on my own experience visiting Fukiwari Falls, I would like to recommend a walking route. There is a well-maintained walking trail from the parking lot to the falls, which is about an hour’s hike. Along the way, the trees along the canyon sway in the wind and the murmuring of the river provides pleasant background music. I visited early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy nature in a relaxed manner. When you get close to the waterfall, the sound of the water echoes through the air and the air is filled with negative ions. For a related article, please refer to Private Wisdom’s other travelogue ( Gunma Onsen Tour).
During the walk, the rocky area near the waterfall basin is worth a special mention. The emerald green surface of the water reflected the sunlight and shone like a jewel. The surface of the rocks was covered with moss, adding a soft green texture and creating an overall mysterious atmosphere. This view was too vivid to be conveyed in a photograph, and was deeply etched in my mind.
- Route Tips: Wear waterproof shoes and be careful of slippery paths.
- Highlights: The panoramic view from the suspension bridge is spectacular.
- Time required: 2-3 hours for a leisurely walk, ideal for a picnic.
Q&A: What should I be careful of when walking around?
Q: What about on rainy days? A: Avoid rainy days as the water may rise. Sunny days are best.
Q: Is it safe to bring children? A: The path is well-maintained, but be aware that there are areas where there are no handrails.
Local gourmet food and relaxation at Fukiwari Falls
After exploring the falls, enjoying the local delicacies was the highlight of my trip. There is a small diner in the area, where I had a set meal of pork miso soup made with Jyoshu barley pork. The soup is made with plenty of fresh Gunma vegetables and the warm broth warms you up. Check out the official website ( Numata City Tourist Association ) for more local delicacies to enjoy. This experience was more than just sightseeing; it gave me a sense of physical and mental fulfillment.
The view from the terrace of the cafeteria is one of a distant haze of waterfall spray and golden sunlight illuminating the leaves of the trees. The steam from the pork miso soup rose white, and the bright hues of the vegetables used as ingredients whetted the appetite. These visuals made the trip even richer and more memorable.
- Recommended menu: Local konnyaku dishes, healthy and satisfying.
- Relaxation: Tea time while listening to the sound of the waterfall.
- Takeaway: A bottle of locally produced apple juice as a souvenir.
Q&A: What is your gourmet budget?
Q: What is a typical cost for one meal? A: You can enjoy authentic local cuisine for around 1000-2000 yen.
Q: Are there vegetarian options? A: We can accommodate vegetarians, as many of our menus are vegetable-based.
Secluded spots and activities near Fukiwari Falls
The waterfall is not the only attraction of Fukiwari Falls. As a nearby hideaway spot, I recommend the nearby Roujin Onsen hot springs. I enjoyed a one-day trip there to relieve the fatigue of my trip. The hot spring water is clear and colorless, gentle on the skin, and offers the kind of high-quality relaxation that is typical of Private Wisdom. Please also see the related article ( Onsen Retreat Experience ). In addition, river play and trekking are popular in summer, and the feeling of stepping on fallen leaves was pleasant during my visit in autumn.
In the open-air baths of Rōjin Onsen, the surrounding mountains are tinted red, and the view beyond the steam is like a painting. The surface of the hot water is smooth and textured, reflecting soft light and creating a tranquil atmosphere. This visual symbolized a moment of luxury.
- Activity: Canoeing down the river (summer only).
- Retreat: Quiet prayer at a nearby shrine.
- Caution: Pull out early in the evening because of the wildlife.
Q&A: Do I need to make reservations for activities?
Q: Do I need to make reservations in advance? A: Reservations are recommended for popular activities. Many of them can be signed up for on-site.
Q: What are the best things to do in winter? A: The snowy scenery is beautiful, and the snow baths are exceptional.
Private Wisdom Summary
My trip to Fukiwari Falls was an unforgettable experience. From Private Wisdom’s point of view, such a secluded place is the key to enriching everyday life. We invite you to visit this hidden gem in Gunma. You are sure to discover something new. For further travel inspiration, we recommend the related article ( Unexplored Places in Japan ).
Finally, a view of the sunset to conclude the trip. The orange sky reflected on the surface of the waterfall created a soft gradation and a peaceful atmosphere. This visual was one that will forever leave a lasting impression of the trip.
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