Nabegataki Waterfall in Kumamoto Prefecture is known as the “waterfall you can see from behind.” With soft streams cascading like a curtain, it offers a unique and spiritual experience that Japanese visitors often describe as calming and healing.
What is Nabegataki Waterfall?
Nabegataki is about 10 meters high and 20 meters wide. While not large, its main feature is that you can walk behind the waterfall, an unusual experience even in Japan. The water flow spreads out softly, like a veil or stage curtain, creating a natural spectacle.
Japanese tourists often comment that it feels “calm and relaxing” or that they “feel united with nature.” The following table summarizes its main features.
| Feature | Details | Japanese impressions |
|---|---|---|
| Height | About 10m | Small and approachable |
| Width | About 20m | Looks like a wide curtain of water |
| Behind view | Pathway behind waterfall | “Extraordinary and unforgettable” |
| Seasons | Cherry blossoms, green summer, autumn leaves, snow | Different beauty each season |
Why Japanese Visitors Love Nabegataki
For Japanese people, Nabegataki is a place of peace and healing. The sound of water and the cool air help them forget the noise of city life.
Standing behind the waterfall, rays of light pass through the water, creating a scene often described as “like being inside a tunnel of light.” Families also appreciate it because children feel like they are on a small adventure, playing with mist and water droplets.
Another major attraction for Japanese people is the seasonal change. In spring, cherry blossoms scatter in front of the falls. Summer offers cool freshness, autumn highlights the vivid contrast of red and yellow leaves, and winter creates a quiet, snowy landscape. Many Japanese visit multiple times to enjoy its changing appearance.
Why Foreign Visitors Should Go
The biggest attraction for foreign visitors is the rare chance to stand behind a waterfall. The pathway is well maintained, so the experience is safe and accessible. Globally, only a few waterfalls allow such access, making it a unique part of Japan’s natural tourism.
Japanese impressions also show that Nabegataki remains “calm and uncommercialized.” Facilities are minimal, so the natural atmosphere is preserved.
| Highlight | Description |
|---|---|
| Behind-the-fall view | Unique chance to see a waterfall from behind |
| Seasonal scenery | Experience the distinct Japanese seasons |
| Photo spots | Light and water create stunning, dreamlike photos |
| Location | Easy to combine with Aso sightseeing or Kurokawa hot springs |
Surrounding Attractions
Nabegataki is even more enjoyable when combined with nearby sightseeing. Kurokawa Onsen, a famous hot spring area, is close by. Many Japanese visitors say that soaking in a hot spring after visiting the falls is the perfect combination.
In addition, Mount Aso with its huge caldera, and local dishes like Akaushi beef or traditional “dago-jiru” soup, are popular. Japanese tourists often share impressions such as “A day with the falls and hot springs was the most satisfying trip.”
| Nearby attraction | Feature | Japanese impressions |
|---|---|---|
| Kurokawa Onsen | Hot spring town with outdoor baths | Ultimate healing after the falls |
| Mt. Aso | One of the world’s largest volcanic calderas | Overwhelming natural scale |
| Local cuisine | Akaushi beef, dago-jiru soup | Simple yet powerful flavors |
Japanese Culture and Nature
One reason Japanese people value Nabegataki is their cultural view of nature as sacred. Since ancient times, waterfalls, forests, and mountains have been seen as places where deities reside.
Visitors often say that “spending time in nature clears the heart.” Thus, Nabegataki is not just a scenic site but also a place of spiritual refreshment. For foreign visitors, it is an opportunity to understand how Japanese people traditionally relate to nature.
Useful Tips for Foreign Travelers
Here are some practical details before visiting:
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Access | About 1.5 hours by car from Kumamoto Airport |
| Best season | Spring and autumn are most popular |
| What to bring | Raincoat and towel recommended |
| Caution | Paths can be slippery after rain |
Japanese visitors often say, “Enjoy it fully if you prepare to get wet.”
Conclusion
Nabegataki is one of Kumamoto’s representative natural attractions. Japanese visitors consistently describe it as “healing,” “dreamlike,” and “enjoyable in every season.” The behind-the-falls experience and the magical scenery created by light and water leave strong impressions.
Combined with hot springs and the vast nature of Aso, foreign visitors can enjoy not only the waterfall’s beauty but also a deeper cultural and natural experience of Japan. Understanding how Japanese people feel about Nabegataki will help foreign travelers appreciate it even more.
