Nachi Waterfall Travel Guide

Nachi Waterfall (那智の滝, Nachi no Taki), also known as Nachi no Taki or Nachi Falls, is one of Japan's most iconic and tallest waterfalls, plunging an impressive 133 meters (436 feet) down a lush, mountainside. Located in the Wakayama Prefecture, the falls have been a site of spiritual significance for centuries, attracting pilgrims and nature enthusiasts alike.The waterfall has been worshipped as the dwelling of a Shinto deity since ancient times. According to legend, Emperor Jimmu, the first emperor of Japan, enshrined the falls after seeing something shining in the mountains. The falls are closely associated with Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, one of the three grand shrines of Kumano. The harmonious relationship between Shinto and Buddhist beliefs can be seen in the close proximity between the Buddhist Seiganto-ji Temple and Kumano Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine. The view of Seiganto-ji Temple's three-storied pagoda with Nachi Waterfall in the background is picture-perfect.The base of the waterfall features Hiro Shrine, where visitors can appreciate the falls up close. For a small fee, you can access a viewing platform for an even better perspective. It is also said that drinking the water from the waterfall's basin will bring good health and a long life. Every year on July 14th, the Nachi Fire Festival takes place, where participants practice Shinto rituals, carrying mammoth flaming torches down to the falls.