Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring, Gifu Prefecture | Complete Guide to Yoro Falls as One of Japan’s 100 Selected Waters [Access, Legends, Highlights]
Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring, located in Yoro Town, Yoro County, Gifu Prefecture, are rare attractions in Japan selected for both the Japan Waterfall 100 and Japan’s 100 Selected Waters. With a drop of 32 meters and width of 4 meters, the pristine water flowing from the falls has long been known as “rejuvenating water.” It carries historical significance through Imperial visits by Emperor Gensho and the legend of the Yoro Filial Son. This article comprehensively explains the charm of Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring, covering history, geography, access, and highlights.
Overview of Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring
Yoro Falls is a waterfall belonging to the Kiso River water system, located at approximately 280 meters elevation in the Yoro Mountains. Situated deep within Yoro Park in the Ibigaseki-Yoro Quasi-National Park, it is surrounded by rich nature offering changing scenery throughout the seasons.
The waterfall measures approximately 30 meters in height (some sources cite 32 meters) and about 4 meters in width, with water cascading down with crystalline clarity. The spray scattered from the falling water rises like mist, creating a chilly sensation even in summer. This waterfall is not only selected as one of Japan’s 100 Waterfalls but is sometimes counted among Japan’s three most celebrated waterfalls.
What is Kikusuizumi Spring?
Kikusuizumi Spring, which flows from within the grounds of Yoro Shrine, is a beautiful spring said to have been visited by Emperor Gensho. In 1985 (Showa 60), “Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring” was designated as one of Japan’s 100 Selected Waters by the Environmental Agency (now the Ministry of the Environment). It is also known as one of Japan’s three greatest spring waters, and due to its deliciousness and expectations of rejuvenation, many people visit from distant places to collect the water.
There are several theories about the origin of the name Kikusuizumi. The most widely accepted explanation is that during the era when Emperor Gensho made her imperial visit, when chrysanthemum-flower sake was fashionably consumed at imperial ceremonies for its purported effects on eternal youth and longevity, the spring water became renowned for having the fragrance of chrysanthemums, leading to it being called “Kiku-sui” (chrysanthemum water).
The Yoro Filial Son Legend: The Tale of Water Becoming Sake
In telling the story of Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring, the “Yoro Filial Son Legend,” recorded in the Konjaku Monogatari (Tales of the Past), is indispensable. This legend is nationally famous as a narrative celebrating filial piety, and is also the origin of the place name Yoro and the era name.
The Content of the Legend
Long ago, a poor woodcutter lived in the Yoro region with his aging father. One day, while gazing at water flowing down from a deep cliff in the valley, the woodcutter thought of his sake-loving elderly father’s delighted face, wishing “if only that water were sake.” At that moment, the woodcutter slipped on the rocks and lost consciousness.
After some time, when he came to, he noticed the aroma of sake in the air. Bewildered, he looked around and discovered water the color of yamabuki flowing from between nearby rocks. Timidly tasting it, it indeed had the flavor of sake.
The woodcutter joyfully gathered this water and brought it home to his father. His father was delighted, and after continuing to drink it, he became remarkably youthful again.
This rumor reached the capital, and Emperor Gensho of the Nara period made an imperial visit to this place. The Emperor drank from and bathed in this spring water and proclaimed it “water that nurtures old age through rejuvenation.” In Reiki 3 (717 CE), the era name was changed to “Yoro.”
Historical Background of the Legend
The Yoro era change actually occurred in 717 CE as a historical fact. Emperor Gensho reigned as a female emperor, and through this imperial visit, the Yoro region was inscribed in history. This tale, where legend and historical fact merge, has been passed down as a narrative symbolic of Japanese filial piety culture.
Geography and Natural Environment of Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring
Geographic Features
Yoro Falls is located at the western base of the Yoro Mountains, formed within terrain shaped along the Yoro Fault. The Yoro Mountains are a mountain range with Yoro Mountain at 859 meters as its highest peak, forming the prefectural boundary between Gifu and Mie prefectures.
The area including the falls is developed as Yoro Park, boasting an expansive 786-hectare site. Within the park, aside from Yoro Falls, facilities such as Yoro Reversed Destiny Land, Children’s Land, and Rakuichirakuza Yoro are scattered, making it one of Gifu Prefecture’s premier tourist destinations attracting over one million visitors annually.
Water Quality and Geology
The water of Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring is natural water flowing from the geological strata of the Yoro Mountains. It contains well-balanced mineral content and is known as soft water with a hardness of 88 that is easy to drink. It is characterized by a clear, refreshing taste with pleasant crispness.
The geology around the Yoro Fault is primarily composed of Mesozoic sedimentary and metamorphic rocks. Water naturally filtered through geological layers over long periods emerges as pristine spring water.
Scenery of the Four Seasons
The Yoro Falls area displays beautiful expressions in each season.
In spring, cherry blossoms bloom brilliantly, coloring the falls with new greenery. Yoro Park as a whole is known as a cherry blossom viewing destination, attracting many visitors.
In summer, wrapped in deep green, the spray rising from the falls brings coolness. One can approach right before the waterfall basin, fully absorbing abundant negative ions.
In autumn, autumn leaves color the mountains, with the Yoro Falls area being particularly popular as a leaf-viewing spot. The contrast between trees tinged red and yellow and the white falls is magnificent.
In winter, the falls occasionally display “frozen waterfalls,” creating fantastical scenes.
Highlights of Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring
Yoro Falls Itself
The greatest appeal of Yoro Falls is its majestic and beautiful appearance. Water flowing from a height of 30 meters falls along rock faces like a white ribbon, scattering in the waterfall basin. Few waterfalls in Japan allow visitors to approach so close to the basin.
The footpath to the falls is well-maintained, accessible by approximately 30 minutes’ walk from the Yoro Park entrance. Along the way, points of interest such as Yoro Temple and Fudo Bridge are scattered.
Kikusuizumi Spring (Rejuvenating Water)
Kikusuizumi Spring within Yoro Shrine grounds is the beautiful spring visited by Emperor Gensho, with legends remaining that white hair turned black. Pristine water continues to flow, and visitors are free to collect it.
Despite being designated as one of Japan’s 100 Selected Waters, it is recommended to confirm with Yoro Town or Gifu Prefecture before consuming the water for drinking purposes. Many people visit seeking the rejuvenating water, bringing plastic bottles and water bottles.
Yoro Shrine
Yoro Shrine, nestled near Yoro Falls, is a shrine closely associated with the Yoro Filial Son Legend. Kikusuizumi Spring flows from within its grounds, having long gathered faith. The shrine area is enveloped in serene atmosphere, allowing quiet worship.
The Seven Bridges
Within Yoro Park, seven bridges are constructed along the path to the falls. These bridges, beginning with Fudo Bridge, each have their own charm, allowing visitors to enjoy stream scenery while strolling.
Yoro Temple
Yoro Temple near Yoro Falls is a temple closely connected with the Yoro Filial Son Legend. Situated quietly in the mountains, it evokes a historical atmosphere.
Yoro Falls Beloved by Cultural Figures
Yoro Falls has long been cherished by many cultural figures. In particular, during the Edo period, ukiyo-e artist Katsushika Hokusai left works featuring Yoro Falls. Hokusai’s depiction of Yoro Falls is known as part of the “Tour of Waterfalls Throughout the Land” series, expressing the waterfall’s grandeur and beauty through his distinctive technique.
Many poets and haiku masters also visited Yoro Falls, composing about its beauty. As a place where history and culture intersect, Yoro Falls holds an important position in Japanese cultural history.
Other Facilities in Yoro Park
When visiting Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring, you can also enjoy other facilities within Yoro Park.
Yoro Reversed Destiny Land
An interactive art facility designed by international artist Shusaku Arakawa and his partner Madeline Gins. A collection of works that directly engage the body, questioning human sensation and perception.
Children’s Land
Athletic play equipment and grass fields provide facilities where children can play freely. Popular with families.
Rakuichirakuza Yoro
A facility gathering local specialty products, souvenirs, and restaurants. Many exclusive items like Yoro Cider made with the famous Yoro spring water are available here.
Other Recreation Facilities
Park golf courses, tennis courts, and camping centers are also developed, offering various activities.
Access Information
Location
Address: Takabayashi 1298-2, Yoro Town, Yoro County, Gifu Prefecture (within Yoro Park)
Transportation Access
By Train
- Get off at “Yoro Station” on the Yoro Railway, approximately 40-minute walk (approximately 10-minute walk to Yoro Park entrance, then approximately 30-minute walk to Yoro Falls)
- About 10 minutes from Yoro Station by taxi
By Car
- Approximately 20 minutes from “Ogaki IC” on the Meishin Expressway
- Approximately 10 minutes from “Yoro IC” on the Tokai Ring Expressway
Parking
- Multiple parking areas in Yoro Park accommodating approximately 1,000 vehicles total
- Parking fee: Approximately 300 yen for regular vehicles (varies by season)
Business Hours and Fees
Yoro Park
- Free admission (excluding certain facilities)
- Yoro Falls access available 24 hours, though daytime visits recommended for safety
Paid Facilities such as Yoro Reversed Destiny Land
- Open: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (admission until 4:30 PM)
- Closed: Mondays (or following day if Monday is holiday), year-end and New Year
- Admission: Adults 770 yen, high school students 510 yen, elementary and junior high students 310 yen
Contact Information
Yoro Park Office
- Phone: 0584-32-0501
Yoro Town Tourism Association
- Phone: 0584-32-1108
Gifu Prefecture Environment and Life Department, Environmental Management Division (inquiries about Japan’s 100 Selected Waters)
- Phone: 058-272-1111 (main number)
Yoro Cider and Blessings of Spring Water
The water from Yoro’s Kikusuizumi Spring is utilized in local specialty products. The representative example is “Yoro Cider.” Since nine-tenths of cider flavor comes from water quality, Yoro Cider achieves its distinctive crisp taste by using water from Kikusuizumi Reisen Spring, one of Japan’s 100 Selected Waters.
Additionally, “Ryusen no Shizuku” (Dragon Spring Drop) mineral water is collected from the water vein of Yoro’s Kikusuizumi Spring, allowing easy enjoyment of the blessings of Japan’s three greatest spring waters.
Notes for Visiting
Regarding Consumption
Although designated as one of Japan’s 100 Selected Waters, selection does not guarantee suitability for drinking. It is recommended to confirm with Yoro Town or Gifu Prefecture departments before consuming the water.
Clothing and Equipment
Reaching Yoro Falls requires approximately 30 minutes’ hiking on mountain paths, making comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear essential. Footing becomes particularly slippery after rain, requiring caution.
Best Seasons
While Yoro Falls offers beautiful scenery year-round, the following periods are especially recommended.
- Spring (late March to early April): Cherry blossom season
- Early summer (May to June): Beautiful new greenery and comfortable climate
- Autumn (mid to late November): Prime autumn foliage viewing
Summary
Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring, selected for both Japan’s 100 Waterfalls and 100 Selected Waters, are signature tourist attractions representing Gifu Prefecture. Bearing historical significance through Emperor Gensho’s imperial visit and the Yoro Filial Son Legend, they have long been cherished by people as “rejuvenating water.”
The majestic 32-meter falls and Kikusuizumi Spring flowing from within Yoro Shrine grounds, surrounded by beautiful nature changing with the seasons, provide visitors with healing and inspiration. Yoro Park offers various facilities including Yoro Reversed Destiny Land and Children’s Land, providing full-day entertainment.
The appeal is enhanced by convenient access, approximately 20 minutes from Ogaki IC on the Meishin Expressway. From Yoro Station, foot access is also possible, allowing enjoyment of natural scenery along the way.
When visiting Gifu Prefecture, be sure to visit Yoro Falls and Kikusuizumi Spring. The pristine spring water and majestic waterfalls will surely become cherished memories in your heart.
