Urigawari Falls, Fukui Prefecture Complete Guide | The Charm of Japan’s 2nd-Ranked Selected Water and Seasonal Highlights
Urigawari Falls, located in Wakasa Town, Mikatakamimachi County, Fukui Prefecture, is known as one of Japan’s representative spring water spots. Not only has it been selected as one of the Hundred Select Waters by the Ministry of the Environment, but in the 2015 Hundred Select Waters Championship Election, it won 2nd place nationwide in the “Excellent Taste Water Division,” making it truly one of Japan’s finest clear waters.
In this article, we provide comprehensive information about Urigawari Falls, from its charm and history to access methods and surrounding tourist spots, everything you should know before visiting.
What is Urigawari Falls? The Origin of Its Name and History
Water So Cold It Splits Melons
The unique name “Urigawari Falls” derives from the coldness of the water. With a water temperature of approximately 11.7°C throughout the year, it is extremely cold. The legend says that when a melon was kept in the water on a hot summer day, it naturally split due to the intense cold, and this is how the falls got its name.
This coldness itself speaks to the high water quality of Urigawari Falls. Water gushing from deep underground passes through multiple layers of geological strata that serve as natural filters, and after being filtered over many years, it becomes pure water rich in mineral content.
A Sacred Spring with 1,300 Years of History
The history of Urigawari Falls stretches back approximately 1,300 years to the Yoro era. Since the time of Taishō Daishi, the founder of the ancient temple Tentoku-ji in Wakasa, it has been revered as a “sacred spring,” believed to have miraculous powers for the ripening of the five grains and the healing of all illnesses.
In those days, it was called the “Forest of Water” and was respected as a sacred place for the ascetic training of yamabushi monks. This long history gives Urigawari Falls its unique solemn atmosphere.
Highlights of Wakasa Urigawari Famous Water Park
Enchanting Forest Scenery
The forest surrounding Urigawari Falls creates an enchanting landscape that captivates all who visit. Soft light filtering through the trees illuminates the moss growing on the rocks, creating a sensation as if one has stepped into another world.
Especially in the early morning or just after rain, mist rises and creates an even more mysterious atmosphere. This scenery woven together by moss-covered rocks and clear streams is popular as a photography spot, attracting many photography enthusiasts.
Flowers Through the Four Seasons
Within the gardens of Wakasa Urigawari Famous Water Park, approximately 10,000 hydrangea plants are planted, along with cherry blossoms, Japanese maple, iris flowers, and other seasonal plants, allowing visitors to enjoy different views depending on the season of their visit.
Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms bloom magnificently, and fresh greenery is beautiful. The contrast between the clear water and cherry blossoms is spectacular.
Early Summer (June–July): 10,000 hydrangea plants come into full bloom. Even during the rainy season, beautiful scenery can be enjoyed. Iris flowers also bloom at this time, and colorful flowers adorn the park.
Summer (July–August): Enveloped in deep green, the sound of cool water makes one feel the summer breeze. Popular as a summer retreat where one can enjoy comfort even on hot days.
Autumn (October–November): Japanese maple leaves turn crimson, and the sight of the red and yellow landscape reflecting on the water surface is awe-inspiring.
Winter (December–February): The silent forest dressed in snow possesses a solemn beauty.
Tasting the Famous Water
The greatest charm of Urigawari Falls is undoubtedly its water quality. It boasts a daily spring water volume of approximately 4,500 tons, and this water, rich in mineral content, is known for being mild and easy to drink.
A water dispensary is located beside the parking lot, and visitors are free to taste this famous water. Many people bring empty plastic bottles or thermoses to take this precious water home with them. However, if you plan to drink it, it is recommended that you boil it just to be safe.
Famous Water “Hundred Select Waters” “Excellent Taste Water Division” 2nd Place Achievement
The Ministry of the Environment’s Hundred Select Waters
In 1985 (Showa 60), the Ministry of the Environment (then called the Environmental Agency) selected 100 clear waters throughout Japan as the “Hundred Select Waters.” Urigawari Falls was selected as one of these 100 locations.
Furthermore, in the “Hundred Select Waters Championship Election” conducted in March 2015, Urigawari Falls achieved a high evaluation of 2nd place nationwide in the “Excellent Taste Water Division.” This is proof that it possesses water quality among the top tier of famous waters throughout Japan.
Also Selected for Water Towns Hundred Select
Urigawari Falls is also a representative famous water of the “Water Towns Hundred Select,” recognized as “Wakasa Town Where You Meet Brilliance and Kindness.” This recognition of the deep connection between the region and water has made it a valuable tourism resource for Wakasa Town.
Basic Information and Access Methods
Facility Information
Name: Wakasa Urigawari Famous Water Park Urigawari Falls
Address: Wakasa Town, Mikatakamimachi County, Fukui Prefecture, Tentoku-ji 37-1-3
Phone Number: 0770-62-0186 (Wakasa Town Tourism and Future Creation Division)
Hours: Free viewing (open 24 hours)
Admission Fee: Free (a 100 yen cleaning cooperation fee is requested)
Parking: Available (free) approximately 50 regular-sized vehicles
Website: Current information can be confirmed on the Wakasa Town official tourism website
Access by Train
From JR Kominato Line “Kamináka Station,” it is approximately a 10-minute walk, offering good access. Signboards guide visitors from the station to the park, so first-time visitors won’t get lost.
To Kamináka Station, it takes approximately 40 minutes from Tsuruga Station on the Kominato Line, and approximately 20 minutes from Obama Station.
Access by Car
From “Wakasa Kamináka IC” on the Maizuru Wakasa Expressway: Approximately 5 minutes (approximately 3 km)
From “Tsuruga IC” on the Hokuriku Expressway: Approximately 40 minutes via National Route 27
When entering the address into your car navigation, input “Wakasa Town, Mikatakamimachi County, Fukui Prefecture, Tentoku-ji 37-1-3” or the phone number “0770-62-0186.”
Estimated Time Required
Including park exploration, tasting the famous water, and photography, a typical visit time is approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour. Those who wish to enjoy forest bathing leisurely or carefully observe seasonal flowers should plan for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting
Clothing and Items to Bring
Since Urigawari Falls and its surroundings are located in a natural forest, the following preparations are recommended.
- Comfortable walking shoes: While the hiking trail is well-maintained, some areas are wet, so non-slip shoes are safer.
- Insect repellent spray: Especially in summer, mosquitoes and other insects are numerous, making this essential.
- Water bottle or plastic bottle: Those wishing to take home the famous water should bring empty containers.
- Rain gear: In this mountainous area where weather changes easily, a folding umbrella provides peace of mind.
Environmental Conservation Cooperation
To protect the beautiful natural environment of Urigawari Falls, please observe the following etiquette.
- Always take trash with you
- Do not collect plants or moss
- Do not pollute the water source
- Cooperate with the cleaning cooperation fee (100 yen)
- Enjoy nature quietly without loud voices
Photography Considerations
Because it is a popular photography spot, consideration for other visitors is important. Avoid reserving spots for long periods, and enjoy photography with a spirit of cooperation. When using a tripod, be careful not to obstruct passage.
Nearby Tourist Spots
Attractive Spots in Wakasa Town
Combining visits to other tourist spots in Wakasa Town when visiting Urigawari Falls will make for a more fulfilling trip.
Mikatago Lakes: A Ramsar Convention-registered wetland where five lakes each display different shades of blue, offering a mystical landscape. Approximately 20 minutes by car from Urigawari Falls.
Rainbow Line Summit Park: An excellent viewpoint overlooking the Mikatago Lakes with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views.
Kumagawa Post Station: Designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings, this historic town retains the atmosphere of an Edo-period post station. Approximately 15 minutes by car from Urigawari Falls.
Wakasa Mackerel Road Kumagawa Post Station Museum: A museum where you can learn about the history of the Mackerel Road connecting Wakasa and Kyoto.
Tourism in the Wakasa-ji Area
Wakasa Town is part of the “Wakasa-ji” region in the Reinan area of Fukui Prefecture, blessed with beautiful coastlines and abundant nature.
Wakasa Bay: Beautiful ria coastlines continue, offering swimming and fishing opportunities.
Meicho-ji Temple: An important ancient temple representing Wakasa, with a national treasure main hall and three-story pagoda.
Wakasa Jingu-ji Temple: A historic temple famous for “O-mizu Okuri.” The “O-mizu Okuri” ritual to Todai-ji Temple’s Nigatsu Hall in Nara is performed annually in March.
Gastronomy and Specialties of Wakasa Town
Fresh Seafood from Wakasa Bay
Fresh seafood caught in Wakasa Bay is exquisite. In particular, the following cuisine is a must-try.
Wakasa Flounder: A high-class fish representing Wakasa Bay, characterized by refined taste.
Wakasa Fugu: The king of winter delicacies. Cuisine using safely farmed blowfish can be enjoyed.
Wakasa Oysters: Popular for their rich and creamy flavor.
Heshiko: A traditional Wakasa preserved food made of mackerel pickled in bran. Its unique flavor is addictive.
Products Made with Urigawari Famous Water
Many products made with water from Urigawari Falls are sold.
Urigawari Famous Water: Sold as bottled drinking water.
Famous Water Coffee: Coffee brewed with Urigawari famous water has an exceptional taste.
Famous Water Tofu: Tofu made with famous water allows the natural sweetness of soybeans to stand out.
Nearby Accommodations
Around Urigawari Falls, various accommodations where one can enjoy Wakasa’s nature and fresh seafood are scattered throughout the area.
Accommodations in Wakasa Town
Hot spring inns, business hotels, and private lodgings are available, offering options to suit various budgets and purposes. Particularly, hot spring inns along the Wakasa Bay coastline allow guests to enjoy kaiseki cuisine made with fresh seafood and onsen bathing.
Accommodations in Surrounding Areas
Many accommodations are also available in Obama City and Mihama Town, making them convenient bases for Wakasa-ji tourism. Resort hotels around the Mikatago Lakes area allow visitors to stay while enjoying lake views.
Best Seasons and Crowds
Recommended Visit Times
While Urigawari Falls has charm throughout all four seasons, the particularly recommended times are as follows.
June–July (Hydrangea Season): 10,000 hydrangea plants bloom in full splendor, offering the most vibrant scenery. However, this period is also the most crowded.
May and October (Fresh Greenery and Autumn Leaves): Pleasant weather with beautiful new growth or autumn foliage. Crowds are relatively manageable.
July–August (Summer Retreat): The cold water and cool forest allow one to forget the summer heat. During summer vacation, it is lively with families.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
- Weekday mornings: Weekends and holidays are crowded, so weekday visits are recommended if possible.
- Early morning: The time immediately after opening is quiet with few people, allowing peaceful enjoyment of nature.
- Avoid the hydrangea season: While June–July is beautiful, it is the most crowded season; those wishing to avoid crowds should consider other seasons.
Water Quality and Scientific Characteristics of Urigawari Falls
Geological Background
The water of Urigawari Falls is produced by the complex geological structure of the Wakasa region. By passing through multiple geological layers, impurities are removed while mineral content dissolves in.
This natural filtration process takes many years, and as water polished deep underground springs forth, that high-transparency clear water is created.
Water Quality Characteristics
- Water temperature: Stable at approximately 11.7°C throughout the year
- Spring water volume: Approximately 4,500 tons per day
- pH value: Weakly alkaline
- Minerals: Balanced content of calcium, magnesium, and others
This stable water temperature and abundant minerals meet the conditions for “delicious water,” leading to its high evaluation in the Hundred Select Waters Championship Election.
Regional Connection and Conservation Activities
Conservation by Local Residents
The beautiful environment of Urigawari Falls is protected through ongoing conservation activities by residents of Wakasa Town. Regular cleaning activities, plant management, trail maintenance, and other efforts are undertaken by the entire community.
The cleaning cooperation fee (100 yen) received from visitors is used as funding for these conservation activities.
As a Site for Environmental Education
Urigawari Falls also plays an important role as a site for environmental education for the region’s children. It serves as a place to learn the importance of water and the significance of nature conservation, and is also used for school field trips and outdoor classes.
Event and Festival Information
Major Events in Wakasa Town
Various events are held throughout the year in Wakasa Town. Some events can be enjoyed in combination with visiting Urigawari Falls.
Wakasa Marathon (Spring): A marathon event where you can fully enjoy Wakasa’s natural beauty
Kumagawa Ippuku Period Village (May): A historical event held at Kumagawa Post Station
Wakasa Town Summer Festival (August): A summer tradition including fireworks displays
Wakasa Autumn Festival (October): An autumn harvest festival where local specialties gather
Photography Tips
Recommended Photography Spots
In Front of the Falls: A classic angle capturing the waterfall dropping straight down. Using a tripod and slow shutter makes the water flow appear silk-like.
Moss-Covered Rocks: The dense moss illuminated by dappled sunlight is ideal for macro lens photography. A fantastic world can be expressed.
Hydrangea and Water Combination: Limited to June–July, but the contrast between colorful hydrangeas and clear streams is an excellent subject.
Water Surface in Autumn Foliage Season: In autumn, autumn leaves can be photographed reflecting on the water surface.
Photography Tips
- Early morning or cloudy days: Soft light from morning or cloudy days creates better forest atmosphere than strong midday sunlight.
- Polarizing filter: Suppresses water surface reflection, allowing more transparent water to be photographed.
- Long exposure: Using an ND filter for long exposure creates beautiful water flow.
- Wide-angle lens: A wide-angle lens is effective for capturing the entire forest atmosphere.
Summary: Fully Savoring the Charm of Urigawari Falls
Urigawari Falls in Wakasa Town, Fukui Prefecture, is a representative famous water spot in Japan, as demonstrated by its 2nd-place evaluation in the “Excellent Taste Water Division” of the Hundred Select Waters. It is a sacred spring with 1,300 years of history, and continues to captivate visitors with its enchanting forest scenery, flowers through the four seasons, and above all, its cold and clear water.
Developed as Wakasa Urigawari Famous Water Park, the surrounding area features 10,000 hydrangea plants, as well as cherry blossoms, Japanese maple, and other plantings that allow visitors to enjoy different scenery depending on the season. The convenient access, just a 10-minute walk from Kamináka Station and 5 minutes by car from Wakasa Kamináka IC, is also appealing.
By combining visits to nearby tourist spots such as Kumagawa Post Station and Mikatago Lakes, you can plan a fulfilling trip to enjoy the nature, history, and culture of Wakasa-ji. Be sure not to miss the fresh seafood from Wakasa Bay.
Each visitor is responsible for cooperating with the 100 yen cleaning cooperation fee and adhering to environmental conservation etiquette, ensuring that this valuable natural blessing is passed on to future generations. The cold, clear water of Urigawari Falls and the enchanting landscape woven by moss-covered rocks will surely remain a special memory.
When visiting Fukui Prefecture, be sure to visit Urigawari Falls in Wakasa Town. The taste of famous water and seasonal natural beauty await you.
