Fuwaridaki Waterfall

Overview

Fuwaridaki Waterfall is a magnificent 7-meter high, 30-meter wide waterfall cascading down the Katashina River in Numata City, Gunma Prefecture. Known as the "Niagara of the East" due to its grandeur, it has been beloved by locals for generations. Formed 9 million years ago, a massive pyroclastic flow from a volcanic eruption solidified into welded tuff. Over millennia, the Katashina River eroded this tuff, creating the current V-shaped valley. The water from three sides flows into this valley, creating the Fuwaridaki Waterfall. Surrounding the waterfall is a roughly 1km long gorge of grey rock formations, known as the "Fuwari Valley" or "Katashina Valley." It's featured on the "Ta" card of the "Jomo Karuta" (a traditional Gunma Prefecture card game), showcasing its status as one of Gunma's leading scenic spots. The riverbed consists of a sequence of tuff and granite, with softer rock selectively eroded, resulting in the unique landscape of giant rocks appearing to have been blown apart. This is the origin of the name "Fuwaridaki" (blown-apart waterfall). There's also an old legend associated with Fuwaridaki, the "Ryugu no Wan" (Dragon Palace Bowl). The story goes that villagers would throw letters of request into the waterfall's pool, borrowing bowls and trays from the Dragon Palace for celebrations. However, one set was never returned, resulting in the loss of this privilege. Fuwaridaki Waterfall is a captivating tourist spot, offering stunning natural beauty and an ancient legend. Visit and experience its power and mystery for yourself.