Hiji Falls (Okinawa) 比地大滝
The fall of Okinawa
If Okinawa, the tropical archipelago of Japan, is justly known for its paradisiacal beaches, the interior of its lands is also worth a look. To the north, you'll find the 25-meter-high Hiji Waterfall, the largest waterfall on the main island.
The suspension bridge on the road to Hiji waterfall.
Julian Matibag
A hike in the jungle
The waterfall is only accessible by car, but parking is free. After paying the entrance fee, 500 yen (3€90), a short hike of one and a half kilometers awaits you through the jungle of Okinawa. The most seasoned hikers will only take 45 minutes to reach the waterfall, the others, between elevation and stairs, may take a little longer. Two options are available to you: the traditional path or the “riverside” path. You will need to remove hiking shoes and socks to cross a small stream : a particularly appreciable cool break in the humid jungle that surrounds the waterfall! Beware, however, of the stones that line the bottom of the stream: walking can quickly become very painful for your arches. The highlight of the hike, accessible via the two paths, remains the crossing of a suspension bridge 17 meters high!
A space out of the world
If in tourist season, the Hiji waterfall is popular, out of season you will have the impression of being alone in the world. You can then observe the fauna and flora in peace, to the sound of semi -Japanese , which have nothing to envy to our western cicadas. If you are lucky, you will see turtles and lizards, but be careful, there are also snakes. Unfortunately, the waterfall is no longer open for swimming, but your eyes and ears will never tire of the spectacle before you: the impressive waterfall 25 meters high and the crashing of the water. which falls, in the heart of a green setting.
After a return of about thirty minutes, rest and picnic on one of the tables available. You can take advantage of your presence to visit the Ufugi museum which will teach you more about the local fauna or go to the small Kunigami village.
Address, timetable & access
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Address
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Timetable
20 minutes walk from Okuma Beach Iriguchi bus station -
Price
500 yen (3€90) -
Access
April to October: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (last entry at 4 p.m.) November to March: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (last entry at 3 p.m.)
