Brazil
Antarctica
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Bermuda
Canada
the United States
Greenland
Mexico
Saint Pierre and Miquelon
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Egypt
Australia
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Waterfall · Sendai, Miyagi
Akiu Falls (Akiu Ōtaki)
A drop of about 55 meters on the Natori River, west of Sendai, seen from a lookout beside Fudo Temple or from the base; also accessible from the Akiu Onsen hot springs and the Rairaikyo gorge along the route.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Akiu Falls (Akiu Ōtaki) in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
Click the picture to enlarge it.
Discover
About Akiu Falls (Akiu Ōtaki)
Akiu Falls, in Japanese Akiu Otaki, is on the upper course of the Natori River, in the Akiu area within the city of Sendai, about 35 km west of the station. The water plunges roughly 55 meters down a dark rock face about 6 meters wide, in a valley covered with woodland. It is designated a Place of Scenic Beauty.
On the valley edge stands Akiu Otaki Fudo-do, a small temple dedicated to Fudo Myoo, from whose overlook you can view the waterfall from above. A trail with stone steps descends to the base, where the sound of the water and the spray dominate. There is also a path to the bridge over the river, which offers another view of the falls.
Along the route, Akiu Onsen is one of the region’s oldest hot-spring resorts, mentioned since the 6th century and used by the lords of Sendai. Today it hosts ryokan and bath hotels along the river, as well as the Rairaikyo Gorge, a stretch of rock carved by the water with a riverside trail and the Rairai Bridge. Between the two points, the road passes fields and small vineyards.
Visits are usually combined: the hot springs and the gorge at Akiu Onsen and the waterfall at the end of the bus line. In autumn the Natori River valley turns colorful and attracts many visitors. The trail to the base of the waterfall can close after heavy rain or in winter.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About an hour at the waterfall, including the overlook and the descent to the base; half a day if you include Akiu Onsen and the Rairaikyo Gorge.
Best time
Between late October and the first days of November, when the valley foliage usually peaks. After rain, the falls tend to have more water. In winter, the trail to the base may be closed due to snow and ice. Check conditions before you go.
How to get there
From Sendai Station, buses run to Akiu Onsen in about 50 minutes and some continue to the Akiu Otaki stop, for a total of about 1 hour 20 minutes. By car it’s roughly 35 km via the valley road. There is parking near the temple.
Tip
Check the return-bus times before you walk down to the base: departures from the waterfall are limited. On the way back, stop at Akiu Onsen for a thermal bath at one of the hotels that accept day visitors.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Akiu Falls (Akiu Ōtaki)
How high is Akiu Falls?
About 55 meters high, roughly 6 meters wide. It is designated a Place of Scenic Beauty.
Can you reach Akiu Falls by public transport?
Yes. Buses depart from Sendai Station, pass Akiu Onsen and some continue to the waterfall, about 1 hour 20 minutes in total. Services are limited; plan your return.
Can you descend to the base of Akiu Falls?
Generally yes, via a trail with steps that starts beside the Fudo temple. It can close after heavy rain or in winter.
Does Akiu Onsen accept visitors who are not staying overnight?
Several hotels and ryokan in Akiu Onsen offer day-use baths at set times. Check in advance, as rules vary by establishment.
Beyond the guide
