Are you hoping to visit the Shiraito Falls in Japan? You’ve come to the right place.
Just outside the town of Jarauzawa, the Shiraito Falls is a waterfall named after silk yarn because of its wisp-like cascades. Near to the city of Shizuoka, the Shiraito Falls are surrounded by the spectacular Mt Fuji.
A visit to the Shiraito waterfall promises scenic views of Mt Fuji in the distance, as well as being one of the most beautiful falls in Japan.
This article will walk you through the best way to reach it, when to visit, and everything else you need to know!
Contents
Me at the Shiraito Falls
What is Shiraito Falls
Shirato Falls is a stunning cascading waterfall in the Shizuoka prefecture of Japan, but it isn’t just any waterfall.
The falls extend 150 meters, and have an amphitheater-like shape that makes you feel like you’re engulfed by the waterfall.
In Japanese shiraito means silk yarn. The falls got their name because the water trickles delicately down the cliff, resembling threads of silk.
Shiraito Falls is made all the more beautiful by the impressive views of Mt Fuji, which towers over the falls in the distance.
An aerial view of Shiraito Falls, surrounded by vibrant autumn-colored trees
A scenic view of Shiraito Falls from a different angle, showcasing cascading water framed by autumn foliage
Where is Shiraito Falls
Shiraito Falls are located close to Fujinomiya, at the base of Mount Fuji. You can see the exact position in the map below, and send it to your map app.
How to get to Shiraito Falls
By Public Transport
It has to be said, this is the least convenient way to reach the falls. There are buses from the nearby towns that run 3 or 4 times a day. From Shin-Fuji Station it takes an hour and costs around 9 USD.
If you’re getting there from Fujinomiya Station you can catch a bus that goes to the Fuji Five Lakes, but stops at Shiraito Falls along the way. It takes about half an hour and costs less than 5 USD.
From Kawaguchiko there’s also a bus option, which takes about an hour and a half and costs around 13 USD.
You’ll need to check the buses each day for this route, as there are only a few that are direct. The others take up to four hours!
If you’re travelling from further away, you could see if there’s a way to visit using the Japan Rail Pass and connecting with different trains.
A closer view of Shiraito Falls, highlighting the delicate streams of water against a lush, rocky backdrop
With a Car Rental
My recommendation would be that you skip the hassle of figuring out the local public transport and rent a hire car for a day or two.
That way you can easily visit Shiraito Falls, plus explore the surrounding region and other stunning sights around Mt Fuji at your own pace.
Bear in mind you’ll need an international driving license to rent a car in Japan, and they drive on the left side of the road!
If you haven’t driven on that side before it can take a little getting used to, so make sure you’re up for the challenge.
Click here to find your perfect car rental in Japan!
Shiraito Falls captured with a focus on the thick, vibrant autumn trees surrounding the cascading waters
With a Tour
A great alternative if you don’t want to drive is to go on a tour. Here are some great options:
This private tour allows you to fully customize your own itinerary of the area. They usually visit the Chureito Pagoda, Oshino Hakkai, Kitaguchi Hungu Fuji Sengen Shrine, Lake Kawaguchiko, and Oishi Park.
You can contact them to swap one of the stops out for a visit to the Shiraito Falls. The driver and guide pick you up for Tokyo, and take you on a customized full-day tour that lasts up to 10 hours.
They can take groups of up to six people and the prices vary based on group size, but cost around or less than 100 USD each.
Click here to book your Mount Fuji Private Day Trip with Driver!
Me with the Chureito Pagoda in the background
Unfortunately, classical tours of the area don’t include the Shiraito Falls, But you can still see lots of the main attractions around Mt Fuji on this group tour from Tokyo.
You’ll be out for the full day, and visit highlights like the Oshino Hakkais springs, the best Mt Fuji viewpoints, Kawaguchiko Oishi Park and Maple Corridor. All for 50 USD per person.
Click here too book your group tour to Mount Fuji from Tokyo!
Autumn leaves along the shroes of Lake Kawaguchiko
A beautiful view from Oshino Hakkai
Best Time to Visit Shiraito Falls
Shiraito Falls is a great year-round destination. Each season offers a unique landscape that has its own charm.
Personally I think it’s most beautiful in autumn when the leaves are turning to hues of orange and reds, or in the summer when the surrounding vegetation is a vivid green.
The Shiraito Falls in winter can get covered in snow! So bring extra layers.
You can come at any time of day. It gets a little busier at midday, but it’s not a crowded destination even then. For the best photos, you might want to catch the sunrise or sunset!
Shiraito Falls on a different angle
Mount Fuji from Shiraito Falls
What is There To Do At Shiraito Falls
The real highlight of Shiraito Falls is the waterfall itself and the scenic views of Mt Fuji in the distance. There isn’t much surrounding it in the way of entertainment.
There is a nice walking trail that runs around the waterfall with viewing decks. I’d suggest you stroll along them, taking a moment to catch your breath and soak in the landscape!
Although I didn’t see any signs saying you couldn’t swim in the falls, you can’t. The site is considered sacred by the Shinto that worship Mt Fuji, so avoid taking a dip!
It also doesn’t look like a safe swimming spot.
Shiraito Falls with a walkway allowing tourists to explore the scenic area while keeping a safe distance from the cascading waters.
The Chureito Pagoda with the majestic Mount Fuji rising in the background, framed by the clear blue sky
Shiraito Falls Opening Hours & Entrance Fees
The great thing about Shiraito Falls is that it’s totally free! The falls are accessible via a little path, which is open day and night.
The only thing that closes are the little shops, bars, and the information center at the start of the trail. If you visit for the sunrise they’re likely to be shut by the time you get there, but you can still access the waterfall.
Me at the Mount Fuji Distant Worship Site Tenku no Torii
Is Visiting Shiraito Falls Worth It?
I loved Shiraito Falls. It’s a unique and tranquil spot that doesn’t get as many visitors as some of the other attractions surrounding Mt Fuji.
There isn’t a whole lot to do there, so you’d only need an hour or so by the falls. I’d suggest combining it with other attractions on a Mt Fuji day tour, or renting a car and stopping there for a little bit before continuing on.
The waterfalls are super beautiful, and I got some incredible snaps of Mt Fuji in the distance from there. Overall, I think it’s definitely worth a visit.
Shiraito Falls didn’t make it on my first Japan 2-week itinerary, but I’m glad I was able to visit on my second trip. It’s definitely a sight that should feature on everyone’s Japan bucket list!
Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba
Where To Stay To Visit Shiraito Falls
Given that the best way to visit Shiraito Falls is by car or with a tour, I wouldn’t worry about staying too close to Shiraito Falls.
After all, you’d have to drive there anyway, so you can opt to stay in Kawaguchiko or another main town, so you’re closer to other attractions.
We stayed at Glamping Villa Hanz and loved it.
It was the ultimate Mount Fuji glamping experience, with comfortable villas or paos to choose from, public and private onsens to relax at after exploring Shiraito Falls, incredible Mt Fuji views, and a delicious barbecue dinner that you get to prepare yourself!
Click here to book your stay at Glamping Villa Hanz!
Breakfast at Glamping Villa Hanz
Alternatively, here are some other accommodation options close to Shiraito Falls.
Budget: Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel Kawaguchiko – Newly renovated in 2015, this hostel offers cozy accommodations with shared amenities, an on-site bar, and stunning views of Mt. Fuji, just 2.7 km from Lake Kawaguchi.
Click here to book your stay at the Kagelow Mt. Fuji Hostel Kawaguchiko
Luxury: Fufu Kawaguchiko – Treat yourself to a luxurious stay with a garden, hot spring bath, sauna, and mountain views, featuring air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities and a restaurant.
Click here to book your stay at the Fufu Kawaguchiko
The paos at Glamping Villa Hanz
Final Thoughts On Visiting Shiraito Falls Shizuoka
Now you know all the logistics of visiting Shiraito Falls, you can do the exciting bit of actually going!
The falls were amongst the most scenic spots I visited in Japan, and are a great destination to add to your itinerary if you’re in the Mt Fuji area already.
Paired with the ancient post towns we saw when hiking the Nakasendo Highway from Magome-juku to Tsumago-juku, exploring Shiraito Falls and Mount Fuji was one of my favourite experiences in Japan.
Most people focus their Japan itineraries on the big cities, like Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, or the famous hot spots like Himeji Castle, Miyajima Island, Nara or Kamakura, but going a little off the beaten track is really worth it.
Enjoy the scenic backdrop and the tranquil sounds of the gushing water whilst you’re there, then relax and have a beer at one of the little bars at the entrance to the falls.
Have you been to Japan before? Would you consider visiting the Shiraito Falls on a trip to Japan? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!
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