Take Fantastic Photos! Five Scenic Waterfalls in Southern Kyushu

1. Sekinoo Falls (Miyazaki)

Sekinoo Falls – consisting of O-taki (great fall) that is 40m wide and 18m high, Otoko-daki (man fall), and Onna-daki (woman fall) – can be found in Miyakonojo City, which is in southwest Miyazaki Prefecture. There is a suspension bridge from which you can see the powerful flow of the falls. There are also walking paths where you can enjoy a seasonal view of the falls. Above the waterfalls is what’s believed to be the largest group of giant’s kettles in the world. A giant\'s kettle is a hole drilled into rocks by stones or gravel. The field filled with giant\'s kettles, which spans an area that is 80m wide and 600m long, is a stunning scene that is designated as a natural monument of the country.

2. Manai Falls (Miyazaki)

Takachiho Gorge is an approximately 7km (east to west) area filled with sharp cliffs that average 80m in height. It is popular among photographers for its numerous scenic spots, and is registered as both a national place of scenic beauty and as a natural monument. Manai Fall is the gorge\'s iconic waterfall. It can be enjoyed from walking paths, but the best way to see it is on a rental boat, which will grant you a thrilling view of the 17m tall waterfall. During the summer, the waterfall and walking paths are lit up, transforming the whole area into an ethereal scene.

Boat rental fee: 2,000 JPY for 30 minutes

3. Nabegataki Falls (Kumamoto)

Approximately 9m high and 20m in length, this waterfall is located in Oguni-machi, Kumamoto Prefecture. It is famous for the splendid view that you can get from its back. Every spring, it is lit up in the evening in red, blue, and yellow, making it look like a magical curtain of water.

Rates: 200 JPY/adult (high school age and older); 100 JPY/child (elementary and junior high school age); free for children under elementary school age.
*The waterfall is scheduled to be lit up in early April 2018. Please refer to the official website for details.

4. Ogawa Falls (Kagoshima)

Located in Minami Osumi, this waterfall is 46m high and 60m wide. Here, you can be soothed by the sound of the stream, feeling as if you’ve become one with nature. It is distinguished by the emerald green color of its shimmering plunge basin and has become particularly popular as a great place to take photographs for social media. To get to this waterfall, you must walk approximately 1,200m from the nearest parking lot on a path that goes along the river, but the fantastic view is well worth the effort.

*Access may be restricted depending on the season, so make sure to check the official website before visiting.

5. Ryumon Waterfall (Kagoshima)

Located in Aira, this waterfall – 46m high and 43m wide – has been famous for quite a long time. Its name is derived from the Dragon\'s Gate Waterfall in Chinese mythology. The sight and sound of the water gushing towards the plunge basin and the white spray created by the waterfall shows off the power of nature. The way the color of the water changes with time is mesmerizing. The "columnar jointing" along the wall of the fall is another must-see. The fall is lit up in the evening, creating an even more magical view.

It can be very slippery near waterfalls, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes - not sandals and heels - and clothing.