Many souvenir shops stand along the walkway. I saw a group of tourists coming up. Not in Japanese. Chinese, maybe. Walking for several minutes, you will become curious about the thunderous sound of water. This is called “Otodome Falls” which literally means “the sound falls stopped its sound”. An interesting history is in it.

Once in Heian Era, a man of Ito family ( remember the father of Yae-hime ? It’s him ) defrauded a young man of his land and wife. He is a Kudo of honorable Kudo clan. No wonder he grudged the Ito. He sent assassins to attack the Ito and killed his son to get even.
After Kamakura Shogunate was settled, two men met each other by a humongous waterfall. They are brothers of Soga family, originally the sons of the Ito assassinated by Kudo. After their father was killed, his wife, with two children, got married with a Soga.
They were having a confidential talk about killing the Kudo by the falls but they couldn’t listen to each other due to the roaring of it.
They prayed and prayed, until finally the sound stopped for a moment. That is the reason why his falls is called “Otodome Falls”. Eventually, they killed Kudo, but were killed by Kudo’s men.

Strolling along the pathway, you will pass by another souvenir shops and be led to the stairs to get down. The way to Shiraito Falls ! You can see it enough from above but please explore the trail to the very front of it if you are vigorous enough because I’d like you to see how clear the water is. It comes mostly from Mt. Fuji. The air near the water pool is rather misty and very refreshing.

To my surprise, a gift shop is by the waterfall. Is it all right ?
It flows like pure white silks, with feminine grace and dignity. Shiraito Falls has been designated as a national natural treasure and nominated as a fall of 100 best falls in Japan. It’s also very famous as a autumn color spot that reached its best after the middle of Nov. If you are planning to come to Shizuoka, please add Shiraito Falls to your list.

Next time, I’ll report Makai-no-Bokujo Ranch.
Have a good day !＾＾

Shiraito Falls & Otodome Falls
Access from JR Fujinomiya Station → 30 minutes by #2 Bus
Admission ： Free

“Shizuoka Guide” is our official English blog website for events & sightseeing. Always with you ! ＾＾