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Shiraito Falls — Silk-Thread Waterfall in Forest

Published: Jul 22, 2026

Updated: Jul 22, 2026

waterfallShiraito Fallsforestscenic beautyKaruizawa

Shiraito Falls — Silk-Thread Waterfall in Forest

Shiraito Falls (白糸の滝, 'White Thread Falls') is a 70-meter-wide curtain waterfall where hundreds of thin streams cascade down a curved rock face, creating the appearance of white silk threads (hence the name). The falls are fed by underground springs from Mount Asama, and the water maintains a constant cool temperature year-round. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forest, with ferns and moss covering the rock walls.

Shiraito Falls is designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty and is one of Karuizawa's most photographed natural sites. A wooden observation platform provides close-up views, and the negative ions from the falling water create a refreshing, almost spa-like atmosphere. In winter, portions of the falls freeze into ice curtains, though the main flow continues year-round. The site is easily accessible and suitable for all ages.

Essential Information

Opening Hours

Open 24/7 (outdoor natural site) | Bus service from Karuizawa Station: April–November, ~9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Closed: Open year-round; direct bus service limited to April–November

Entrance Fee

Free entry

Best Season

May–June (fresh greenery, high water flow) | October (autumn foliage framing the falls)

Visit Duration

30 minutes (falls only) | 60 minutes combined with nearby Ryugataki Falls (10-min walk)

Getting There

Access Information

Karuizawa Town, 30-min bus from Karuizawa Station (¥740 one-way, seasonal service April–November). Free entry, open 24/7. Short 3-minute walk from bus stop/parking area to waterfall. Visit duration: 30 minutes. Combine with nearby Ryugataki Falls (10-min walk) for extended visit.

Insider Guide

Premium

**Best timing:** Late spring (May–June, fresh green foliage, high water flow) and autumn (October, fall colors frame the waterfall). Summer (July–August) sees peak crowds but offers cool refuge from heat. Winter access (December–March) is limited due to road closures, but the partially frozen falls create a magical ice sculpture scene. **Photography tips:** The falls face north, so lighting is soft and even throughout the day (no harsh sun). Morning (9:00–11:00) provides slightly better light than afternoon. Use a slow shutter speed (1–2 seconds) to create silky-smooth water effect; tripod recommended. The mist creates rainbow effects on sunny days around 11:00–13:00. **Ryugataki Falls combo:** Walk 10 minutes past Shiraito to Ryugataki Falls (竜返しの滝, 'Dragon Return Falls'), a single-drop waterfall in a narrow gorge. Fewer tourists, more dramatic setting. The combined visit takes 60 minutes. **Local cafe:** Shiraito no Taki Kanoko (白糸の滝かのこ, near parking area) serves soft-serve ice cream (¥450) and amazake (sweet fermented rice drink, ¥500). The outdoor seating area overlooks the forest approach to the falls — pleasant rest stop before/after visit.

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