Tsukimai no Taki (Moonlit Waterfall)

Overview

Tsukimai no Taki is a 17-meter-high waterfall located in Daigo Town, Kuji District, Ibaraki Prefecture. Composed of two waterfalls, the 'Otaki' (male waterfall) and 'Mesaki' (female waterfall), a third waterfall, called 'Ko-daki' (child waterfall), emerges from the middle basin when the water volume is high, creating a stunning trio. Also known as 'Ura-mi no Taki' (Behind-the-Falls), it's a rare phenomenon in Japan, allowing visitors to venture behind the waterfall without getting wet. From behind, you can experience the magical flow of the Otaki and Mesaki waterfalls up close. The area has a long history as a place of worship for the Twenty-Third Night deity (Nijusan'ya-son), where people traditionally waited for the moon on the 23rd night of the lunar month to pray for safe childbirth and other blessings. Immerse yourself in this tranquil space of majestic nature, breathe in the abundance of negative ions, and rejuvenate your mind and body. A nearby soba noodle restaurant and cafe, Momiji-en, offers a delightful dining experience with breathtaking waterfall views. Their soba noodles are made with locally grown buckwheat flour, boasting exceptional flavor, and their coffee is crafted with high-quality beans, resulting in an aromatic and smooth brew. During autumn's foliage season, the surrounding maple trees burst into vibrant colors, creating an even more enchanting atmosphere. Sunset views, with the crimson sky and fiery foliage, are particularly stunning. Tsukimai no Taki is a captivating tourist spot where nature, history, and culture converge. We highly recommend a visit!