Guide
Tendaki Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in Oya-cho, Yabu City, Hyogo Prefecture, boasting a spectacular drop of 98 meters. It has been officially selected as one of the '100 Best Waterfalls in Japan.' As its name suggests, the waterfall is characterized by a powerful pillar of water that looks as if it is falling directly from the heavens. The surrounding Tendaki Valley is covered in lush primeval forests and has been designated as one of the '100 Best Forest Bathing Forests' and one of the '50 Best Forest Bathing Places in Hyogo.' It is a truly solemn and majestic site where you can feel the profound vitality of nature.
Tendaki has a deep history and many legends associated with it. There are legends related to Kobo Daishi (Kukai), and the area is mentioned in historical documents such as the 'Yamato Hase-dera Engi' and 'Yakuno Gyoja Honki.' Additionally, the falls gained popularity after appearing in the opening sequence of the NHK morning drama series 'Futari-kko' in 1996. This land, which has coexisted with nature for centuries, has long been a site of spiritual and cultural significance.
The greatest attraction of Tendaki is the striking white pillar of water falling vertically. The view of the water interacting with the surrounding rock faces and trees is breathtaking. Within the valley leading up to the falls, several other waterfalls can be found, including Meoto Falls, Tsuki-ga-taki, Ito Falls, Shinobi Falls, Iwama-no-taki, and Kuon-no-taki. Exploring the area allows you to enjoy the diverse expressions of these different waterfalls. The rich ecosystem, including the surrounding beech forests and mountain wildflowers, is another major highlight.
Tendaki offers a different face in every season. In spring, the fresh greenery is beautiful, and in summer, it serves as a refreshing retreat with cool breezes and the soothing sound of water. In autumn, the valley is painted with vibrant foliage, and in winter, you may witness the dramatic sight of ice formations (though complete freezing is rare, the serene winter atmosphere is quite captivating). The best times to visit are May for fresh greenery or November for autumn colors. Visiting in the morning when the air is crisp will allow you to experience the clearest beauty of nature.
The primary activities around Tendaki are trekking and hiking. The path to the falls follows a trail along the mountain stream, allowing you to observe the natural beauty as you walk. At the foot of the Tendaki Valley, you can also find the 'Tendaki Park Campground,' where you can enjoy outdoor leisure with family or friends. It is a perfect place to refresh your mind and forget the stresses of daily life.
There are many attractive natural spots near Tendaki. Upstream of the valley lies the Sugisawa Plateau, which is excellent for nature observation. The nearby Hino-yama is also recognized as one of the '100 Best Hidden Places in Japan' and offers excellent hiking courses. Furthermore, the Tendaki Park Campground allows for BBQ and camping stays, and the presence of nearby hot springs and roadside stations (Michi-no-Eki) adds even more variety to your trip.
Preparation is essential as the route to Tendaki involves walking on mountain trails. Please wear comfortable, non-slip footwear (trekking shoes are highly recommended). Bring rainwear, warm clothing, and plenty of water to prepare for sudden weather changes. Please be extremely careful with your footing, as some areas are uneven or slippery. Since mobile phone reception can be unreliable, it is recommended to visit in groups. To protect the environment, please follow all rules, such as taking your trash home and staying out of restricted areas.