Shiraito Falls is one of the prettiest waterfalls in Japan and one of the most well known. It’s situated in Fujinomiya city (20 min. drive from the city center) and is part of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.

I happened to be there on a very rainy day, so I had to be quick – get out of the car, run to the falls, take a few pictures and go back, but I still enjoyed my visit. Waterfalls cannot be spoiled by rain. And there’s another waterfall close nearby (you will see it just following the main path from the parking lot) called Otodome, which in Japanese means “to stop the sound”. The name comes from the association with traditional Japanese tale of Soga brothers who were plotting the revenge against their father’s killer. To talk about it without the fear of being overheard they met by this waterfall – hence the name. At least that’s what the legend says. And Otodome Falls are really bigger and louder than Shiraito, but not as exquisite. Anyways, you get two waterfalls in one by visiting this place.

Both Shiraito and Otodome falls are on the list of 100 best waterfalls of Japan from the Ministry of the Environment. Shiraito is also part of Fujisan World Heritage Site.

See what if was like on that day: