Save places from Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and more
Shiraito Waterfall
Attraction
4.2 (13023 reviews)
Peaceful natural area featuring a small arc-shaped waterfall framed by mountain slopes.
Nagakura, Karuizawa, Kitasaku District, Nagano 389-0111, Japan
Did You Know?
Meaning of its Name
The name 'Shiraito' directly translates to 'white threads,' perfectly describing the numerous thin, delicate streams of water cascading down the moss-covered rock face.
Unique Water Source
Unlike most waterfalls fed by a river, Shiraito Waterfall's water originates entirely from underground springs, specifically groundwater from the nearby Mount Asama, ensuring a remarkably consistent flow.
Impressive Width
While not exceptionally tall, Shiraito Waterfall boasts an impressive width of approximately 70 meters (about 230 feet), creating a wide, curtain-like appearance.
Gentle Height
The waterfall has a relatively gentle drop of about 3 meters (10 feet), contributing to its serene and delicate 'white threads' aesthetic rather than a powerful, thundering cascade.
Highlights from Reviews
• unique geology
The waterfall's unique formation, with water seeping directly from volcanic rock, is a fascinating and unusual sight.
• easy accessibility
The waterfall is easily accessible via a short, gentle walk from parking areas or bus stops, suitable for most mobility levels.
• peaceful atmosphere
Despite potential crowds, many found the sound of flowing water and natural surroundings to be relaxing and tranquil.
• scenic drive/walk
The drive to the waterfall and the short walk to it offer beautiful scenery, especially during autumn and winter.
• good for all seasons
The waterfall is beautiful year-round, with unique charm in each season, including winter when the water doesn't freeze.
Featured in
Nagano's Best Autumn Foliage Viewing Spots
Matsumoto-jō Castle, Kamikōchi, Karuizawa
Karuizawa: Mountain Escape Near Tokyo
Karuizawa, Karuizawa Prince Hotel West, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza
Karuizawa Weekend Trip: Tokyo To Natural Wonders
Mampei Hotel, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, Bakery & Restaurant Sawamura Kyukaruizawa
Karuizawa Travel Guide: Nature, Shopping, And Dining
Karuizawa Hotch Ichiba Farmers' Market, Hoshinoya Karuizawa, Tonbo-no-yu
Japan Road Trip: Nature, Culture, and Cuisine Adventures
Takeshita Street, Daio Wasabi Farm, Kappa Bridge, Kamikochi
Six-Day Japan Road Trip: Shrines, Nature, and Culture
Yohashira-jinja Shrine, Zenkō-ji temple, Nawate Shopping Street
Kusatsu and Karuizawa Family Trip Highlights
Yubatake, Kusatsu Onsen Boun, Hotel Cypress Karuizawa
Japan Family Trip: Tokyo, Kawaguchiko, Karuizawa
Tokyo Tower, Oishi Park, Lake Kawaguchi
Japan Road Trip: Scenery, Food, and Culture
Funaya, Amanohashidate, Great Ginkgo Tree of Hongan-ji
9 Places in Karuizawa
Karuizawa, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, Old Karuizawa Ginza Street
Karuizawa: Nature, Art, and Elegant Shopping
Karuizawa New Art Museum, Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza, Hiroshi Senju Museum Karuizawa