Shiraito Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located in the Itoshima Peninsula of Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan. The waterfall is about 24 meters tall and cascades down the mountainside like a white thread. It is a popular tourist destination, especially in the summer months when it provides a refreshing escape from the heat.
The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation, including hydrangeas, maple trees, and bamboo. There is also a small shrine at the base of the waterfall. Visitors can enjoy walking along the trails that lead to the waterfall, or simply sit on the rocks and enjoy the view.
Seasonal Highlights
From mid-June to early July, the area around the waterfalls transforms into a vibrant canvas painted with the colors of approximately 5,000 hydrangeas, numbering up to 100,000. This floral spectacle is a treat for both the eyes and the soul.
Moreover, from the end of April to November, visitors have the unique opportunity to indulge in Yamame trout fishing. And if that’s not enticing enough, from April to September, one can also relish the experience of Somen-nagashi (flowing noodles).
Nature Trails and More
Adjacent to the bus stop and parking area, a serene nature trail beckons visitors. Here, one can take a leisurely walk, accompanied by the gentle murmur of the river and the melodic chirping of birds. It’s an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts to capture the essence of nature.
Culinary Delights at Fureai-no-sato Shikino-chaya
For those with a penchant for culinary exploration, the “Fureai-no-sato Shikino-chaya” restaurant offers a plethora of dishes crafted from Yamame trout. From the classic salted and grilled preparations to the more exotic deep-fried and nanbanzuke pickled variants, the restaurant promises a gastronomic journey that celebrates the local flavors of Shiraito.
How to get there
There are a few ways to get to Shiraito Waterfall from Fukuoka’s Hakata Station.
By train:
The fastest way to get to Shiraito Waterfall from Hakata Station is to take the JR Chikuhi Line to Chikuzen-Maebaru Station. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs 520 yen for a one-way ticket. From Chikuzen-Maebaru Station, you can take a community bus to the Shiraito Waterfall bus stop. The bus ride takes about 10 minutes and costs 200 yen for a one-way ticket.
By bus:
You can also take a bus directly to Shiraito Waterfall from Hakata Station. The bus ride takes about an hour and costs 1,000 yen for a one-way ticket. The bus departs from the Hakata Bus Terminal and arrives at the Shiraito Waterfall bus stop.
By car:
If you are driving, it will take you about an hour to get to Shiraito Waterfall from Hakata Station. The drive is relatively easy, as the roads are well-maintained. There is a small parking lot at the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly. If you are coming by car, it is best to arrive early or take the bus.
The Shiraito Waterfalls, with their myriad attractions ranging from natural beauty to culinary delights, promise an experience that is both enriching and invigorating. Whether you’re a nature lover, a food enthusiast, or simply someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, this destination in Fukuoka Prefecture is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart.
