Tsukimachi Falls

A 17-meter-tall, 12-meter-wide waterfall on the Ouse River, part of the Kuji River system. Normally, it’s a “married couple” waterfall with two side-by-side streams, but when the water volume increases due to rain, a smaller “child” waterfall appears, becoming a “parent and child” waterfall. It’s said to have been named for this shape: women would gather to wait for the moonrise on the 23rd night and pray for safe childbirth and good fortune, a folk belief custom known as “Tsukimachi.”

Hollowed out by years of erosion behind the basin, the waterfall is also known as a “back-view waterfall” or a “walk-through waterfall,” and you can go behind it without getting wet. The back side of the falls is said to have an extremely high amount of negative ions, making it a popular power spot. In fall, the maples planted along the path to the waterfall turn color, creating a stunning scene with the falls and drawing especially large crowds. In the harsh cold of winter, the waterfall may also freeze.

The falls are located on the grounds of the eatery “Momijien,” known for its house-milled soba and shaved ice made from natural ice (Phone: 0295-72-3993). Viewing the waterfall is free, but it’s only available during the restaurant’s business hours.