Fukugawa Falls
CONTRIBUTED BY QUENTIN RICHARDSON
For those seeking adventure, Fukugawa falls is a great place to visit. Be prepared to hike, climb and swim all in one trip. You can also walk upstream to just to visit the falls to take pictures or even picnic along the route.
Fukugawa Trail
This site can serve as a great river trekking adventure if you are prepared. However, it is more dangerous and longer than the Taa Waterfall in Ogimi Village. First, bring a lot of bug spray and something to ward off the massive amount of spider webs. Next, footwear is important! Wear water-resistant shoes with a solid sole and good traction. Light, long sleeve shirts and pants help against mosquitoes. For safety reasons, do not travel this route alone. Finally, take your time and trek in the river (the second stretch) as much as you can unless you see flat ground. By the way, the water is COLD!
Fukugawa Group Trail
The Fukugawa Falls: The First Stretch
After passing the sign, there will be a long trail leading down to the first waterfall. Stay on the trail. You will walk downhill passing a flower farm, you cross over the stream via a bridge marking the halfway point. Continue down the path and you will reach the picnic area. The trail then turns into steps climbing a hill, at the hill’s summit you will be able to see the falls and its pool. Continue down the hill for Fukugawa Falls I. You can swim here and take pictures without worrying about crowds, since not too many people visit here.
The Fukugawa Falls: The Second Stretch
The start of this stretch begins at the top of the hill before the first set of falls. It will be a clearing on the left. WARNING! This trail is dangerous for young children (and adults who are not careful). It quickly climbs and wraps around the first waterfall and ends near to top of the fall. You can actually walk over to the edge of the waterfall and watch the water fall into the pool below (NEAT!).
The route upstream is now about 45 minutes to the next waterfall. Be prepared to get at least waist high deep in the stream in some areas and climbing up rocks in others, but stay in the stream as much as possible (usually easier). The rocks are very slippery, even when dry, so be careful. Once you reach the final destination, do not trek any farther. The waterfall here is very impressive and also has a pool to swim in.
Fukugawa Above Falls
Bring a waterproof camera, if not be careful since both falls seem to spray out. Also, a little backpack would be a smart thing to have since you will need both of your hands to balance yourself or support you along the trail. Since the area is deep in the mountains, cell phone reception doesn’t exist (at least for SoftBank users). Also check out Hiji Falls.
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You will see stairs under a torii gate at the beginning of this left turn, drive past a few farms and end at a T-intersection where the trail begins.