Ryusei Falls & Ginga Falls

Twin waterfalls from Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls viewable together from Sobakudai Observatory

Two renowned waterfalls representing Sounkyo, both selected for Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls. Ryusei Falls (90m) and Ginga Falls (120m) can be viewed simultaneously from Sobakudai Observatory.

Ryusei Falls and Ginga Falls, known as scenic attractions representing Sounkyo Onsen, are two renowned waterfalls selected for Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls. Ryusei Falls cascades violently down about 90m, creating thunderous roars and white spray. Meanwhile, Ginga Falls flows delicately down about 120m like white silk, quietly sliding down the rock face. Due to their contrasting appearances, Ryusei Falls is called the "male waterfall" and Ginga Falls the "female waterfall."

Climbing the slope for about 20 minutes from the parking lot with your back to the falls brings you to the Sobakudai observation deck. From here, you can view both waterfalls cascading simultaneously, with the roar of the falls and the sound of water hitting rocks echoing through the valley. Cold spray rising from the waterfall basins rides the wind, and fresh air filled with negative ions fills your lungs. Deep green trees grow thickly on the surrounding cliffs, creating a vivid contrast between the white of the falls and the greenery. Inside the parking area is the shop "Taki Mintara," where you can purchase local specialties and take a break.

  • * Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Nearest airports
New Chitose Airport Sapporo Okadama Airport Hakodate Airport Okushiri Airport Asahikawa Airport Wakkanai Airport Rishiri Airport Okhotsk Monbetsu Airport Memanbetsu Airport Nemuro Nakashibetsu Airport Tancho Kushiro Airport Tokachi Obihiro Airport

General Information

Address
北海道上川町層雲峡
Telephone Number
01658-5-3350(Sounkyo Tourist Information Center)
Car Park
150 spaces, free
Directions
●By bus: About 30 minutes from JR Kamikawa Station by Dohoku Bus bound for Sounkyo, get off at the last stop. Transfer to the Dohoku Bus bound for Lake Taisetsu (one bus a day from Jul. to Oct. only), about 15 minutes, and get off at Takimidai and walk shortly
●By car: 30 km from Kamikawa Sounkyo IC of Asahikawa-Monbetsu Expwy via Route 39, about 30 minutes
Website

Official site (Japanese)

* Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.

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