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Shomyo Falls
A dramatic view featuring Japan’s tallest waterfall, with a 350-meter drop.
Fed by snowmelt from the Tateyama Mountain Range, this dynamic waterfall plunges down in a spray of mist. With a drop of 350 meters and a basin 60 meters in diameter, it is the tallest waterfall in Japan. The powerful flow of the falls and the scenic gorge framed by rock walls create a truly breathtaking sight.
Another highlight is the chance to enjoy different scenery in each season. In spring, when snowmelt brings a greater volume of water, Hannoki Falls (500 meters high) appears beside Shomyo Falls. This creates the rare sight of two waterfalls cascading down in a V shape. From spring to summer, as the water volume increases, the falls become even more powerful, with spray rising up from the basin. Walking along the fresh green promenade and cooling off in the mist is especially refreshing. In autumn, the gorge turns red and yellow, creating a striking contrast between the fall colors and the white waterfall.
The waterfall is located Approx. 1 kilometer from the nearest parking lot. The walking path is well maintained, but comfortable walking shoes are a must. Please note that the road to the parking lot has different access hours depending on the season. It is also closed in winter.
Highlights
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A dynamic waterfall with the greatest drop in Japan.
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Enjoy different seasonal scenery, including fresh greenery and autumn leaves.
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Road access hours vary by season, and the area is closed in winter.
Photos
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In summer, when the water volume is high, you may even see a rainbow
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Autumn brings spectacular views of the waterfall and colorful foliage
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Is there free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A
You can use "TOYAMA Free Wi-Fi" near the Shomyodaira Rest House.
Q
Are there restrooms nearby?
A
There is one at the parking lot and one along the walking path.
Q
Is there a parking lot?
A
Yes, there is free parking for Approx. 250 vehicles.
Q
Is there a smoking area?
A
Smoking is prohibited because this is within a national park.
Q
Are there any sightseeing spots nearby?
A
Akushiro Wall: A massive single-rock cliff formed over Approx. 100,000 years as the Shomyo River (Shomyo Falls) eroded the lava plateau. It reaches Approx. 500 meters in height and Approx. 2 kilometers in width.
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route: One of the world's leading mountain sightseeing routes, connecting Tateyama Town in Toyama Prefecture and Omachi City in Nagano Prefecture. By transferring between six different vehicles, visitors can enjoy the great natural scenery of Tateyama Kurobe while passing scenic spots such as Murodo and Kurobe Dam.
Q
Can I visit with pets?
A
Because this is within a national park, pets are not allowed in the area.
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 称名滝
- Postal Code
- 930-1406
- Address
- Ashikuraji, Tateyama Town, Nakaniikawa District, Toyama Prefecture
- Phone
- 076-462-9971 (Tateyama Town Commerce, Industry and Tourism Division)
- Closed on
- Closed in winter
- Hours
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Road access hours: Katsuradai Gate–Shomyodaira Parking Lot 7:00am–6:00pm (May–June, September–November),
6:00am–7:00pm (July–August) - Admission
- Free
- Access
- To Shomyodaira Parking Lot: Approx. 15 minutes by Shomyo Falls sightseeing bus from Tateyama Station, or Approx. 40 minutes by car from Tateyama IC (Approx. 30 minutes on foot from the parking lot to the falls)
- Official website
- Official website (Japanese)
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