Nagano Prefecture

Natural wonders in Nagano Prefecture

Japan's Natural Wonders

Nagano Prefecture's diverse topography features volcanic formations and glacial valleys. This collection includes the 1915 eruption-formed Taisho Pond in Kamikochi and the convergence of three distinct water sources at Sanbondaki on Mt. Norikura. Visitors can explore the historical Nakasendo trail's twin falls in Tsumago or the high-altitude boardwalks of the Iwana Forest Therapy Trail in Achi. These sites showcase the region's geological history through tiered cascades, turquoise river pools, and preserved ancient woodlands.

Japan's Natural Wonders — Map

Qurren / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Taisho Pond

Formed in 1915 during the eruption of Mount Yakedake, this pond was created when mudflows dammed the Azusa River. It is characterized by the submerged, decayed trunks of Japanese larch and birch trees.

B

Odakimedaki Waterfalls (Male and Female Waterfalls)

Located along the Nakasendo trail between Magome and Tsumago, these twin falls consist of the "male" Odaki and "female" Medaki. Legend states that the swordsman Miyamoto Musashi once trained under these cascades.

C

Setonokama

A series of potholes and emerald-green pools located in the Atera Valley. The riverbed features smooth white granite rocks shaped by centuries of water erosion.

D

こもれびの滝

A small waterfall located in the Kiso Valley near the Ontake Ropeway. The name translates to "sunlight filtering through trees," reflecting how light hits the water through the dense forest canopy.

E

不易の滝

Situated in the forest near Mount Ontake, this waterfall is part of a series of cascades accessible via woodland trails. It is frequently visited alongside the neighboring Komorebi-no-taki.

F

七段ノ滝

A tiered waterfall located in the mountains near Omachi. The name translates to "seven-stage fall," referring to the multiple levels the water descends over the rock face.

G

Fudo Fall

A waterfall located in the Azumino region. Like many falls named after Fudo Myoo, it has historically been used for ascetic water purification rituals known as takigyo.

H

Sanbondaki

One of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, this site features three distinct streams originating from different water sources that converge in a single basin on the slopes of Mount Norikura.

I

日暮の滝

A secluded waterfall located in the Ina Valley region of southern Nagano, surrounded by dense deciduous forest.

J

尾丸滝

A high-altitude waterfall located in the Otari region near the Northern Alps. It is accessible via mountain hiking trails near the border of Niigata Prefecture.

K

Iwana Forest Therapy Trail

A 2.3-kilometer loop trail in Achi Village featuring wooden boardwalks. The path winds through ancient forests and past mountain streams, designed specifically for forest therapy and shinrin-yoku.

Other Lists

Nagano's Essential Wonders Majestic Mountain Peaks Alpine Huts and Trails Japanese Culture and Heritage