Ryujin no Taki Waterfall

Ryujin no Taki Waterfall emerges directly from a limestone cavern created by millions of years of water erosion. The gentle cascade of water spreads out into several smaller streams as it makes its way down the moss-covered mountain. The waterfall is a few minutes’ walk from the visitor center at Shirahone Onsen, and is located on the side of the main road. The name Ryujin derives from a Shinto rain deity to whom farmers pray and make offerings. The limestone cavern has an almost eerie quality, as groundwater continually drops down in thin white strands from countless holes in the rock. In winter, the waters freeze over and icicles form along the ridges of the waterfall.