Japan's Shiraito Falls Are a Must-See When Visiting Mt. Fuji

During the winter of 2011, we were fortunate to be able to spend six weeks in the friendly country of Japan. It was about this time of year (February), seven years ago. Where does the time go? I’ve been reminiscing as I go back through photos and videos. One place that I definitely wanted to share with you is Shiraito Falls near Mount Fuji.

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Shiraito Falls

Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan | city.fujinomiya.lg.jp
Address: Kamiide, Fujinomiya

The day of this particular outing, I only knew that we would try to see Mt. Fuji, and that would depend on cloud-cover. I tried not to get my hopes up, because the weather caters to no one, and was happily surprised that we definitely saw more than I ever dreamed we would!

See Related: 5 Beautiful Sites in Japan

After viewing the majestic Fujisan (Mount Fuji) from one of its nearby lakes, Lake Yamanaka, we also visited a tourist area for food and souvenirs, an ice cave, and then came to a parking area after a short drive. But I didn’t see anything around. As we walked closer to our destination, a steady roar became louder and louder.

From the level of the parking lot, we walked down a hillside and through a building with several souvenir and food stands. On the other side, the trail opened up revealing the most gorgeous waterfalls I have ever seen in my life.

The sight of the falls was a bit overwhelming. The panoramic waterfall is approximately five hundred feet wide, falling from a height of about sixty-five feet. The water thundered down the cliffs, revealing itself to be crystal clear spring water that has filtered down from Mt. Fuji.

Mark and Jenni at Shiraito Falls in Fujinomiya, Japan

Shiraito Falls, as part of the Fujisan site, is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Japanese Natural Monument. As it should be. This place is insanely gorgeous and definitely needs to be protected and preserved for all to see.

I think I can describe the feeling of walking into this clearing pretty well. It’s the same feeling I got when I watched Jurassic Park for the first time, at the part where Dr. Grant sees the brachiosaurus for the first time… which intensified when they showed the landscape shot of the dinos at their watering hole.

The feeling was one of absolute wonder at this natural beauty that is so much bigger than me. And it kinda looks like a pristine prehistoric place too. I’m surprised I didn’t point and say, “It’s… it’s a waterfall!” Honestly, I think one reason I love travel so much is because I can experience that feeling of sheer awe again and again. This world is an amazing place!

Shiraito Falls food for sale — Just some of the yummy (?) goodies for sale at Shiraito Falls.

You may have read our past post about the strange food we ate in Japan, like raw liver and raw cow stomach. I’m a pretty adventurous eater in that I will try just about anything once, but I need to know what it is I’m eating. Needless to say, I had no idea what was being sold for snacks at Shiraito Falls, and I did not make a purchase. If anyone knows anything about the food above, I’d love some insight.

See Related: The Most Bizarre Foods I Ate in Japan

Besides Mount Fuji, Shiraito Falls was my favorite destination in Japan. I think it had a bit more impact on me than the famed mountain because the waterfalls were a total surprise to me. I knew what to expect with Fujisan. That doesn’t make Fuji less impressive, but those waterfalls got a gut reaction out of me!

If you’re planning a trip to Japan and know you’ll be seeing Mt. Fuji, definitely make plans to see Shiraito Falls as well. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed! And just in case you were wondering, no, you can not swim at this site. It’s considered sacred, so please be respectful!

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Have you been to Japan? What was your favorite place to visit? Is Japan on your travel list? What do you think of these waterfalls? Have you visited any beautiful waterfalls? We’d love to hear from you, so leave a message in the comments below!