A Series of Beautiful Waterfalls in Hirose Gorge
Hirose Gorge follows a tributary of the Susami River and contains more than ten waterfalls of various sizes. Each waterfall has its own distinctive character, including Genpuku-no-Taki and Asaniji-no-Taki.
At the uppermost part of the gorge is Koto-no-Taki, the best-known waterfall in the area. The walking trail has been developed while preserving the natural landscape, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery without losing the feeling of being deep in the mountains.
Each season offers a different experience. Fresh green foliage covers the gorge from spring through early summer, while the clear mountain streams provide a refreshing escape during summer. In autumn, the surrounding trees turn brilliant shades of red and yellow, creating spectacular scenery around the waterfalls.
The Elegant 20-Meter Koto-no-Taki Waterfall
Koto-no-Taki falls approximately 20 meters into the gorge. Although the waterfall has considerable power, its flowing shape gives it an elegant and graceful appearance.
There are several traditional explanations for the origin of its name. One story suggests that the flowing water resembles the strings of a koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. Another theory holds that the waterfall’s former name, Kodo-no-Taki, gradually changed into its present name.
The exceptionally clear water flowing into the basin below is particularly beautiful. After rainfall, the increased volume of water makes the waterfall even more dramatic.
The combination of dark rock, clear water, and deep green forest creates a scene that feels almost like a natural work of art. Visitors who enjoy photography will find many opportunities to capture the changing appearance of the waterfall and surrounding gorge.
A Mysterious Waterfall with a Ushi-Oni Legend
Koto-no-Taki is also associated with an old Japanese legend about a mysterious creature known as an Ushi-Oni. In Japanese folklore, an Ushi-Oni is a frightening supernatural creature traditionally described as having the head of an ox and a spider-like body.
According to local tradition, an Ushi-Oni once appeared from the waterfall’s basin in front of a farmer who was cutting grass nearby.
The creature was said to have a terrifying power: if it licked a person’s shadow, that person would suffer a high fever and eventually die. Because of this frightening legend, local villagers are said to have offered sake and celebratory food in front of the waterfall at New Year to calm the creature.
According to the story, the Ushi-Oni stopped attacking the villagers after these offerings began.
Legends such as this provide an intriguing glimpse into the traditional Japanese view of mountains and waterfalls as mysterious places inhabited by supernatural beings. The story also suggests how deeply people in the region once respected and feared the power of the natural environment.
Discover a Hidden Mountain Village from the Sengoku Period
Those who continue farther upstream from Koto-no-Taki can find an area traditionally associated with a hidden village of a samurai warrior from Japan’s Sengoku period.
The surrounding mountains are extremely secluded, making the area difficult to reach and easy to conceal from outsiders. According to local tradition, this remote environment was once used as a hidden settlement.
Walking quietly along the mountain trail while imagining the lives of people who may have sought refuge in these mountains offers a different kind of historical experience. Rather than simply viewing historical buildings, visitors can explore a landscape where nature itself forms part of the story.
Forest Bathing and Hiking in Hirose Gorge
Hirose Gorge is designated as a Wakayama Prefecture Nature Conservation Area, helping to protect its rich variety of plants and wildlife.
The walking trails pass through areas of natural forest, offering visitors the chance to slow down and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The Japanese concept of shinrin-yoku, or “forest bathing,” is particularly appropriate here: simply spending time among the trees, listening to flowing water, and breathing the fresh mountain air can be deeply refreshing.
During summer, the gorge is noticeably cooler than the surrounding areas. The cold air from the streams and waterfalls and the gentle breeze moving through the trees create a naturally refreshing environment, making Hirose Gorge a popular place to escape the summer heat.
In autumn, the landscape changes dramatically as the forest turns shades of red, orange, and yellow. The colorful leaves surrounding the waterfall create striking contrasts and make this one of the most attractive seasons for photography.
Visit Shizuku-no-Taki Waterfall Too
Another waterfall worth visiting in the area is Shizuku-no-Taki Waterfall. Located on the main stream of the Susami River, this beautiful two-stage waterfall has a total height of approximately 30 meters and is also included among the Eight Scenic Views of Susami.
The upper section flows smoothly across a relatively broad rock face, while the lower section drops more forcefully into the basin below. The contrast between the two sections gives the waterfall a distinctive appearance.
The path to Shizuku-no-Taki is relatively accessible, making it a convenient addition to a sightseeing itinerary. The surrounding fresh greenery in early summer and colorful autumn foliage are especially beautiful.
During summer, the river also attracts people who enjoy stream fishing, including fishing for ayu sweetfish and amago trout. This provides visitors with an opportunity to experience the natural abundance of the Susami mountains at close range.
The Rare Kii Joboro Hototogisu Flower
Further into the mountains, around the Samoto area, visitors may encounter a rare wildflower known as Kii Joboro Hototogisu. Sometimes described as the “lady of the mountain village,” this beautiful plant is native to the southern Kii Peninsula.
It is characterized by elegant, bell-shaped yellow flowers that hang downward. The plant has become increasingly rare because of factors such as over-collection and is classified as an endangered species.
Local residents have worked to protect and cultivate the plant, helping preserve this special part of the area’s natural heritage. The flowers are generally at their best from late September through mid-October, when they add vivid color to the mountain villages.
Access to Koto-no-Taki
By Public Transportation
Koto-no-Taki is approximately 10 to 20 minutes by car from JR Susami Station. Because the waterfall is located in a mountainous area, visitors using public transportation should check local transportation options and schedules in advance.
By Car
From the Susami Interchange on the Kisei Expressway, the area can be reached in approximately 20 minutes via Prefectural Route 38.
Parking is available around Koto-no-Takiso, which also serves as a convenient starting point for exploring Hirose Gorge.
A Refreshing Journey Through Nature and History
Koto-no-Taki offers much more than a beautiful waterfall. The surrounding Hirose Gorge combines pristine mountain scenery, peaceful hiking trails, traditional legends, and stories connected with the history of the region.
A leisurely walk through the gorge allows visitors to experience the sound of flowing water, the fragrance of the forest, and the refreshing mountain air. The journey itself becomes part of the attraction, offering a welcome escape from the pace of everyday life.
Every season brings something different. Fresh green forests make spring an attractive time for hiking, while the cool streams and shaded trails provide a refreshing retreat during summer. In autumn, colorful foliage transforms the gorge into a spectacular natural landscape.
For travelers looking for a quieter side of Wakayama, Koto-no-Taki and Hirose Gorge offer an excellent opportunity to experience the natural beauty, folklore, and mountain culture of the Kii Peninsula.
When visiting Susami Town, consider taking the time to explore this peaceful mountain landscape. The combination of waterfalls, forests, legends, and seasonal scenery makes Koto-no-Taki a memorable destination for anyone who enjoys nature and authentic rural Japan.