Clear spring water and a moss-covered stream make Uriwari Falls in Wakasa Town , Fukui Prefecture a scenic spot selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Waters. Even in summer, the water temperature stays around 13°C, offering a refreshing coolness. In dappled sunlight, the sight of the waterfall framed by a torii gate creates a special view that calms the heart.
This article introduces the highlights of Uriwari Falls, tips for your visit, and practical information. It is designed so that even solo travelers or first-time visitors to Japan can enjoy their time with ease, including hints on access and how to spend your stay.
Uriwari Falls offers moments of tranquility and coolness in nature. Let’s explore its charms and visiting tips in detail.
Contents
Uriwari Falls First-Time Guide｜Access Info
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
By Train
Osaka Station
Take the JR Rapid Service to Tsuruga Station (about 1 hr 40 min)
Transfer to the Obama Line for Kaminaka Station (about 50 min)
Walk about 20 min from Kaminaka Station
Total travel time: about 2 hr 50 min
Kyoto Station
Take the JR Kosei Line Rapid Service to Tsuruga Station (about 1 hr 30 min)
Transfer to the Obama Line for Kaminaka Station (about 50 min)
Walk about 20 min from Kaminaka Station
Total travel time: about 2 hr 40 min
Nagoya Station
Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Maibara Station (about 30 min)
Transfer to the Hokuriku Main Line to Tsuruga Station (about 45 min)
Transfer to the Obama Line for Kaminaka Station (about 50 min)
Walk about 20 min from Kaminaka Station
Total travel time: about 2 hr 25 min
One Point Advice
Uriwari Falls Visitor Info｜Hours & Access
Admission: Free (¥300 cleaning fee for taking Uriwari Falls spring water)
Hours: Open all day
Closed: None
Official Travel Guide: https://wakasabay.jp/
Uriwari Falls Highlights & Itinerary
Headwaters｜Pure Flow in Japan’s 100 Famous Waters
At the core of Uriwari Falls , spring water emerges from underground, moistening layers of moss and creating a soft green carpet. The temperature stays around 13°C year-round, letting you feel a cool breeze even in midsummer. Listen closely to the gentle sound of water at Uriwari Falls brushing against stones and leaves—it will make you forget the passage of time. Begin your visit here to experience the purity of these celebrated waters with all five senses.
Duration: 20–30 min
Admission: Free
Torii-Framed Viewpoint｜Sacred Photo Spot
A red torii gate on the approach frames the waterfall beyond, creating one of Uriwari Falls’ iconic scenes. Standing beneath the gate, you are enveloped in an atmosphere as if nature itself were a sacred altar, with the waterfall’s straight drop and the quiet forest behind. Depending on the sunlight’s angle, the water surface at Uriwari Falls glitters silver or jade green, making it worth visiting at different times for photography.
Duration: 10–15 min
Admission: Free
Spring Water Point & Trail｜Local Water Experience
At both the trail entrance and near the waterfall, you’ll find water collection points where visitors fill containers with spring water. For locals in Wakasa, it’s an essential resource for daily life and cooking, and its clean taste carries a faint sweetness. Along the path, small streams and mossy rocks appear, and walking slowly allows encounters with seasonal flowers and birdsong.
Duration: 15–20 min
Admission: Free (¥300 cleaning fee for taking spring water)
Side Trips from Uriwari Falls｜Afternoon & Next Day
Tentokuji Temple｜Historic Site in Uriwari Park
A few minutes’ walk from Uriwari Falls in Wakasa, Tentokuji is said to date back to the Muromachi period . Surrounded by cedar trees, its grounds feature seasonal flowers that invite visitors into a quiet atmosphere. From the main hall, you can see a purification basin fed by Uriwari’s spring water, its gentle sound adding to the calm. Visiting both the temple and falls offers a blend of nature and history.
Mikata Goko Rainbow Line｜Lake & Sea Views
From Kaminaka Station, take the Obama Line to Mikata Station , then a local bus to the Rainbow Line Summit Park. From the 400m-high observation deck, enjoy sweeping views of Mikata Goko Lakes and Wakasa Bay. Cherry blossoms in spring, lush greens in summer, autumn foliage, and winter snow each give the panorama a different beauty. Footbaths and a café provide a relaxing break while you take in the scenery.
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Obama｜Historic Port Town & Seafood
About 30 min by train from Uriwari Falls, Obama has long been known as “Miketsukuni ,” a key supplier of seafood to the imperial court. Morning markets offer fresh fish and local products, while the old town has traditional houses and temples. Highlights include the National Treasure Myotsuji Temple and the Wakasa Fisherman’s Wharf. Strolling along the coast lets you enjoy both the local cuisine and culture, making it a great contrast to the natural setting of the falls.
Uriwari Falls Travel Q&A
How much time should I plan for a visit?
Including the round trip from the station, about 60–90 minutes is standard. Allow extra time for photography or collecting water.
Can I take spring water home?
Yes, bring your own container. A ¥300 cleaning fee is required.
Where can I collect spring water?
Collection points are near the trail entrance and close to the waterfall, both kept clean.
Are there any local specialties to try nearby?
Try Wakasa’s mackerel sushi or tofu made with local spring water.
Are there seasonal highlights?
Summer offers refreshing coolness, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Each season has its own scenery.
Uriwari Falls Summary｜What’s Next?
Uriwari Falls is a serene spot where clear spring water —selected as one of Japan’s 100 Famous Waters —meets seasonal natural beauty. Mossy streams and torii-framed waterfall views create scenes worth capturing, and facilities make it comfortable even for solo or first-time visitors.
Each visit reveals a different side of Uriwari Falls, a rare place to experience Wakasa’s nature. With attention to visit time and attire, you can spend your time more comfortably. Enjoy the famous water and refresh both body and mind.
Next, why not head to Mikata Goko, where crystal-clear waters await, and enjoy more of Wakasa’s natural wonders?
