Uriwari Waterfall

In the south of Fukui Prefecture, not far from the coastal city of Obama , on the Sea of Japan, is the Uriwari Waterfall. And, to be honest, when we follow the signs that lead us to these waterfalls, we don't expect in the least to come across a small bubble of nature as out of time .

So of course, to get there, there are pine forests and small straight roads between the fields, once you leavethe town of Wakasa behind. Already giving the walker a little idea of the atmosphere. But, when you get a few meters from the waterfall, the surroundings are not the most natural: a souvenir shop and a small restaurant . Nothing very original then.

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Smell of pines and lapping of water

However, you just have to follow the signs and go a little deeper into the forest for the magic to begin to work. The sweet smell of pine begins to invade the nostrils, and the freshness gradually falls on the shoulders. In a few meters, this small path covered with bark plunges the walker into a completely different atmosphere.

Very quickly, we begin to hear the sound of water, before seeing the contours of this marvelous waterfall take shape little by little. It is not here that lovers of high waterfalls will find their happiness. The Uriwari waterfall cascades down the slopes in a multitude of small veins of water , under the protection of a wooden torii and rectilinear pines, which seem to touch the sky.

See also: The 7 waterfalls of Kawazu

One of the hundred purest springs

The Uriwari waterfall has something to seduce with the atmosphere that emanates from it, but that's not all. It has been named as one of the 100 purest springs in Japan. But it is also one of the coldest , winter and summer. Legend even has it that an Uri (a kind of Japanese melon) exploded under the cold water.

As you will have understood, it is impossible to swim in this stretch of wild water. But the walk is worth the detour in itself. Do not hesitate to cross the small bridge which overhangs the bottom of the waterfall. It will allow you to take a little height. A small hiking path even continues through the forest for the bravest.

If the car is the preferred means of transport to visit Fukui prefecture, which will allow you to alternate walks by the sea and excursions inland, it is quite possible to come and visit the waterfall of Uriwari by public transport.

Rent a car to explore remote areas of Japan.