Hirayu Waterfall

Hirayu Otaki Falls is one of the three great waterfalls of Hida, and it has been selected for Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls as well as Gifu’s 50 Famous Waters. Located in Okuhida Hirayu Otaki Park, the waterfall—64 m in height and 6 m in width—shows beautifully changing expressions through the seasons. In late May, vivid fresh greenery surrounds the falls, and from early October, autumn leaves begin to color the area. At peak season, the brilliant foliage shining in sunlight has also earned selection in the Hida–Mino Autumn Leaves 33. A legend tied to the origin of Hirayu Onsen says that about 450 years ago, exhausted soldiers of the Kai army reached Hirayu Otaki; as they gazed at the falls, an aged white monkey descended and guided them to a spot where hot spring water welled up. The powerful scene of water cascading from a massive rock face is truly impressive. In the severe cold of February, the flow freezes and transforms into enormous icicles. Every February, the “Hirayu Otaki Icefall Festival” lights up the frozen falls, creating a fantastical world. Surrounded by mossy old trees and rocks, the area is a place to recharge with negative ions and soothe daily fatigue.