Guided Hiking Trails
Walk the serene path past all seven falls. Keep an eye out for the "Dancing Girl of Izu" statues and collect stamps for the Seven Gods of Good Fortune.
Learn MoreIzu Peninsula, Shizuoka
Discover Kawazu’s Seven Cascades
Follow the forested trail through seven breathtaking waterfalls—ranging from the 30m Odaru to the intimate 2m Kanidaru—in a sanctuary for every season.
Highlights Along the Trail
Curated experiences that bring you closer to Kawazu’s water, forest, and culture.
Hot Spring Retreats
Unwind in nearby ryokan and open-air baths that overlook the valley and glow with seasonal foliage.
Learn More
Local Cuisine & Cafés
Taste wasabi delicacies and seasonal sweets crafted by Kawazu artisans along the riverfront.
Learn MoreWhy Kawazu Shines Year-Round
Each season reveals a new side of the waterfalls.
🌸 Spring (Feb 7 – Mar 8, 2026) →
The Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival attracts 1 million visitors. Night illuminations run 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
🍂 Autumn (Nov – Dec)
The "Nanadaru Koyo Matsuri" features vibrant maple foliage and a stamp rally through the gorge.
Experience the Magic
Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls.
Shokei-daru: The First Cascade
The trail begins with Shokei-daru, famed for its emerald plunge pool and basalt columns. Early morning mist catches the sunlight for ethereal views.
- Distance: 150 m from entrance
- Best Light: 8:00–10:00
- Difficulty: Gentle
Paths Through Ancient Forest
Wooden walkways and stone steps weave alongside the Kawazu River. Listen for kingfisher calls and watch for clusters of wild hydrangeas along the path.
- Trail Length: 1.5 km round trip
- Duration: 60–90 minutes
- Accessibility: Stairs & handrails
Choose Your Ideal Itinerary
Whether you have a few hours or a full day, there’s a way to experience all seven falls at your pace.
Half-Day Scenic Walk
- Guided trail through first five waterfalls
- Tea break at Kawazu café
- Seasonal flora briefing
Full-Day Adventure
- All seven waterfalls with scenic viewpoints
- Local lunch featuring fresh wasabi
- Private onsen soak post-hike
Hydrangea Season Tour
- Early access during late-May bloom
- Photography guide and tripod points
- Evening illumination walk
Go Deeper
New here? Start with the complete trail guide (all seven falls, difficulty, and what to wear), check the interactive trail map with every waterfall and bus stop pinned, pick your month with the seasons guide, and sort the logistics with the transport guide. Comparing waterfall day trips before committing? See how Kawazu stacks up against Nikko and the rest in waterfalls near Tokyo. Pairing Izu with Hakone on the same trip? Our sister guide covers the Hakone onsen day trip from Tokyo.
Private Izu & Shimoda Day Trip from Tokyo
A customizable private day on the peninsula — the Seven Waterfalls and Loop Bridge fit naturally on the route south.
TRAVEL JAPAN TOGETHER
Private Day Trip
Highlights
- Private vehicle, live guide, and hotel pick-up and drop-off in Tokyo
- Customizable route — ask your guide to include the Kawazu Nanadaru trail and Loop Bridge
- White sands and clear water at Shimoda's famous beach, 25 minutes past Kawazu
- Ocean views from the lighthouse and a walk along Perry Road's historic street
- Visit the site where Japan signed its 1854 treaty with the U.S.
From $371 — see group pricing on GetYourGuide
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
Book This TourReserve now & pay later
How the Day Can Run
This is a private, customizable tour — the stops below are one natural way to shape the day, not a fixed schedule. Confirm your route with the guide when booking.
Tokyo Hotel Pick-up
Private vehicle, door to door Start
Kawazu Seven Waterfalls
Walk the trail and see the Loop Bridge — ask your guide to include it ~1.5 hours
Shimoda
Beach, lighthouse views, and Perry Road's historic street Afternoon
Return to Tokyo
Drop-off at your hotel End
Immersive Gallery
Moments from the cascades, nearby ryokan, and the surrounding forests.
Visitor Stories
Hear from travelers who wandered the misty paths and soaked in the onsen after a day of exploration.
Read more reviews“Every cascade had its own personality. Our guide shared stories about each one and brought tea for the overlook.”— Aiko, Tokyo
“The hydrangeas were unbelievable. Dawn start was worth it to have the trail to ourselves.”— Liam, Vancouver
“Perfect blend of gentle hiking and cultural insight. The onsen soak afterwards was the perfect finale.”— Mei, Singapore
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before traversing the seven cascades.
Spring 2026 Update: The famous Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival runs from Feb 7 to Mar 8, 2026. Avoid weekends if possible. Summer offers fireflies and hydrangeas, while November brings stunning autumn foliage. Month-by-month detail is in the seasons guide.
Swimming in the river basins is generally prohibited for safety. However, distinct from the river, the Amagiso Odaru Onsen (at the base of the largest fall) allows swimming in their outdoor baths. Note: Swimsuits are required (mixed gender) and it is open to day-trippers from 10am–4pm. Odaru and the onsen are the finale of the trail walk.
Take the JR Tokaido Line to Atami, transfer to the Izu Kyuko Line bound for Kawazu Station, then board a local bus or taxi (15 minutes) to the trailhead. Exact trains, fares, and the upper-vs-lower bus decision are in the transport guide.
The main path is well-maintained with handrails and stairs. Families with young children should plan extra time and sturdy footwear. The trail guide covers difficulty fall-by-fall.
Absolutely. It is one of the only places in the world to see waterfalls flowing over columnar joints (ancient hexagonal lava formations) without a strenuous trek. The "Odoriko" literary history adds a unique cultural layer. See how it compares with the other waterfalls near Tokyo.
Unlike standard Somei Yoshino (pale white, short bloom), Kawazu-zakura are deep pink and bloom for a full month (Feb–Mar), making them much easier to catch for travelers. The full story is in our Kawazu sakura guide.
Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome on the walking paths, though they should be kept on a leash. Many nearby cafes with terraces are also pet-friendly. Trail conditions are described in the trail guide.
"Nana" means seven and "Daru" (or Taru) means waterfall. The town name "Kawazu" translates to "River Port Haven". All seven are pinned on the interactive trail map.
Not necessarily. The trail is paved or has boardwalks for 90% of the route. Comfortable sneakers are sufficient, though trails can be slippery after rain. More gear advice in the what to wear section.
Water-resistant shoes, layered clothing, and a light rain jacket are recommended. Bring cash for local shops and onsen admission. The trail guide has the full checklist.
Getting There
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Direct Train from Tokyo
Take the JR Odoriko or Saphir Odoriko limited express directly to Kawazu Station (approx. 2.5 hours). Covered by Japan Rail Pass.
Alternative: Tokaido Shinkansen to Atami, then transfer to Izu Kyuko Line.
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Bus to Trailhead
Board the Tokai Bus C50 (bound for Shuzenji) from Kawazu Station to Kawazu Nanadaru Onsen or Mizutare stops.
Duration: 25-35 mins • Cost: ~¥730 • Runs hourly (check NaviTime app).
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By Car & Loop Bridge
Via National Route 414. Don't miss the famous Kawazu-Nanadaru Loop Bridge, a double-spiral structure on the approach.
Free parking available near the visitor center.
Ready to Explore All Seven Falls?
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