Shimizu Mountain Stream Square - Nomizo Falls / Kameiwa Cave

Shimizu Keiryu Plaza (Nomizo Falls / Kameiwa Cave) is a sightseeing spot that gained attention through the internet and many media outlets. At Kameiwa Cave, the time and angle of the sunrise changes by season, but only around the spring equinox in March and the autumn equinox in September, morning light streams into the cave and reflects on the water surface to form a heart shape. Photos of this phenomenon spread on social media, making it famous as a mystical spot. The heart-shaped light is a limited-time sight, visible only around March and September (around the equinox/Ohigan period) between about 6:30 and 7:30. However, Shimizu Keiryu Plaza has plenty to see beyond the heart light. In early summer, hydrangeas bloom along the boardwalk, and Genji and Heike fireflies flutter above, making it a well-known photo spot for dreamy images. Nomizo Falls is also recommended to visit together with Kameiwa Cave. The waterfall basin is said to be heart-shaped; it may not be obvious at first glance, but if you stare at it for a few minutes, the heart shape begins to emerge. Near the parking area, there is also the free-flowing hot spring “Senju no Yu,” perfect for soothing tired feet after your walk. Access is via JR Kururi Line Kazusa-Kameyama Station, then about 10 minutes using the on-demand taxi “Kimipyon-go.”