Seven Waterfalls Hidden in Izu

Go for a walk and make a wish at The Wishing Rock

Nicole Bauer Apr 26, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>Hebi-daru, or snake waterfall, as the rock formations on the top of the falls resemble snakeskin</p>

<p>The riverbed looks lovely along the entire trail.</p>

<p>Approaching Shokei-daru, a 10-meter drop. In the front that's The Wishing Rock. Follow the ritual described on the sign along the walking trail, and if you are a good at throwing little stones your wish may come true.</p>

<p>It looks easier than it is. It is not a great distance; but the little stones like to jump out again even if you aimed well in the first place!</p>

<p>It was already past the main cherry blossom season (between early February and early March in Southern Izu); however, a few trees higher up in the surrounding hills were still showing some nice colors.</p>

<p>So did other flowers along the trail.</p>

<p>Closer to Shokei-daru. This is a cute little spot and maybe the most popular one for taking pictures. </p>

<p>If you get hungry on the way, no worries. There are a few stalls and tea houses at the main trail entrance (near O-daru, the highest of the falls) selling snacks and quick lunches like soba and udon. I particularly loved these wonderful grilled mochi (Japanese rice balls).</p>

<p>You also have the chance to get some fresh wasabi roots. Southern Izu is famous for its wasabi fields.</p>

<p>Last but not least, here I am standing on the top of O-daru, sneeking a peek onto the riverside onsen baths of O-daru Onsen, from where you would also be able to watch the falls. O-daru Onsen is a public onsen, but a little different from the traditional ones as you need to wear a bathing suit, which makes sense, as you can see, it is really public!</p>

Varsha wrote a lovely article about the waterfalls in Izu and I finally got the chance to visit the falls myself—what a great hidden spot in the middle of the forest! The drive to the falls was already spectacular. We took road 414 coming from Shimoda, instead of the coastal road 135, and all of a sudden we were surrounded by the fresh lush green fields and hills I heard Southern Izu was famous for. If you want to enjoy the cherry blossoms in the area, this is best in February or March; for the Firefly Festival go around late June or early July. Now enjoy my view of the falls!

More info

Find out more about Kawazu Seven Waterfalls (Nanaderu).

Nicole Bauer @nicole.bauer

Travelling abroad to discover new places, getting to know different cultures and learning foreign languages has always been my passion. I was born and raised in Germany; however, for a few years now I've been very lucky to be able to spend my life abroad. I lived for some time in England and Ital...