Contemplate the beauty of the natural world at Shirahige Falls. Cascades of water tumble 98 feet (30 meters) down a moss-covered rock face into the river below.
The source of the falls is a subterranean stream from Mount Tokachidake. The water flows through gaps between rocks and resembles a white beard, hence its name Shirahige, which is the Japanese word for white beard.
View the falls from the Blue River Bridge, which crosses the Biei River. As you survey the scene, take in views of the surrounding countryside, which is verdant green during the summer and covered in white in the winter.
Shirahige Falls is a spectacular sight at any time of year, but particularly during winter. The water doesn’t freeze even when the temperature drops below 32°F (0°C), and the area is covered in snow and ice. Note the slight blue tint of the water which comes from the aluminum leached from the rocks.
Be sure to come back to the waterfall in the evening for the light-up event where the cascades are illuminated with different colored lights and patterns. It is held from November through to April, although the schedule can change slightly from one year to the next.
Once you have enjoyed the waterfall, visit nearby attractions. Stop by the human-made Blue Pond, which gets its name from the color of the water. The blue-tinted hue comes from aluminum, sulfur and other components that feed into the pond. Another notable feature is the collection of partially submerged silver birch trees.
Soothe body and mind in the nearby Biei Shirogane Onsen, a natural hot spring with mineral-rich water. It sits at the foot of Mount Tokachi and has unobstructed views of its rugged landscape.
Shirahige Falls is located in the town of Biei, about a 30-minute bus ride or drive from the nearest railway station. If you’re coming by car, park in the free Shirogane Tourist Information Center public car park.
