Momoto-no-taki Waterfall

Overview

Momoto-no-taki Waterfall is a beautiful and powerful waterfall nestled in a quiet valley surrounded by a primeval beech forest in the Ani district of Kitaakita City, Akita Prefecture. Also called "onna-taki" (woman's waterfall), it's said to bring blessings for childbirth and safe delivery. As a power spot embraced by abundant nature, it attracts many visitors. From the Noro River Park, walk for about 45 minutes along the river through the primeval beech forest towards Tamagawa Onsen. You'll reach the junction of Akagawa-zawa and Momoto-zawa streams. From there, it's about a 20-minute walk along the riverbank towards Momoto-zawa to reach Momoto-no-taki Waterfall. You'll pass a smaller waterfall, Yoko-taki, along the way. Momoto-no-taki Waterfall itself is shaped like a woman. Further upstream is "otoko-taki" (man's waterfall). Also located upstream is Momoto-sugi, a Japanese cedar designated as a natural monument of Akita Prefecture. The upper part of Momoto-no-taki Waterfall features a series of about 200 meters of Nameri-taki (smooth waterfall) and potholes, offering spectacular valley scenery. As you walk through the valley, Hachidan-no-taki waterfall joins from the right cliff, leading to a plaza formed by a single rock face on all four sides. In summer, subalpine wetland plants bloom here. Climbing slightly upstream to Chutaki waterfall and then further to the peak ridge, you’ll find Kitago-you and Nezukos trees mixed with Momoto-sugi. After another 150 meters, you encounter Otoko-taki waterfall, which drops vertically. The stream eventually splits into two branches (Migi-no-zawa and Hidari-no-zawa) and disappears into the primeval Momoto-sugi forest. A path to the upper reaches has been created with steps carved into the right side of Momoto-no-taki Waterfall. However, the upper part of the waterfall lacks a walkway, so equipment such as ropes and spiked boots is necessary. Note that the entire Momoto-zawa area, including the main Noro River, is designated as a no-fishing zone. When visiting Momoto-no-taki Waterfall, please be mindful of nature conservation by taking your trash with you and avoiding damaging plants. Pay attention to the weather and ensure your safety during your walk.