Chisuji Falls (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Chisuji Falls?
What makes it 60% Kids-Friendly: Kids can picnic and learn volcanic facts, yet parents must manage slippery decks, no toilets, and a 20-minute walk each way, so comfort and safety are only moderate.
Positives:
- Easy terrain: The trail is flat near the falls and has sturdy railings for safety.
- No entry fee: Access to the falls and picnic area is free, making it budget-friendly.
Challenges:
- No restrooms: There are no toilets at the site; plan ahead to use facilities at nearby stations or hotels.
- Slippery surfaces: Mossy rocks and boardwalk can be slippery; wear shoes with grip and watch young children closely.
What is Chisuji Falls?
- A slender cascade in Hakone’s Kowakudani area, where water cascades in hundreds of threadlike streams over moss-covered lava rock
- Water emerges from underground volcanic layers to form a 3-meter-high, 20-meter-wide curtain of fine streams
- A Taishō-era viewing platform sits amid maple and evergreen forest, presenting the falls’ delicate, curtain-like flow
What is so special about Chisuji Falls for with kids?
- Discover delicate, string-like water streams over mossy lava rock.
- Enjoy a safe, flat 20-minute trail perfect for young children.
- Use picnic benches with waterfall views for easy family meals.
- Teach simple volcanic geology using the falls’ unique water source.
- Spot fireflies at dusk in early July and colorful foliage in spring and autumn.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A short 20-minute walk plus picnic and geology activity fits young kids’ pace.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Chisuji Falls
Easy waterfall walk:
Follow a flat 20-minute deck trail to the viewing platform.
Tip: Hold kids’ hands on mossy boardwalk; there are railings along the path.
Picnic by the falls:
Use on-site picnic tables with waterfall views.
Tip: Pack sandwiches and fruit; seating is limited to a few benches.
Mini geology lesson:
Show kids how water seeps from lava layers in thin streams.
Tip: Point out the green moss and explain volcanic rock in simple terms.
Catch summer fireflies:
In early July, visit at dusk for firefly displays over the falls.
Tip: Bring a small flashlight and stay on the path to avoid trampling plants.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Chisuji Falls
- Go early: Arrive by mid-morning to enjoy quieter trails and picnic tables.
- Combine with onsen: After the falls, head to nearby family-friendly hot springs for a full-day outing.
Reviews of Chisuji Falls
Nathaniel Lightfoot
Entrance has moved! First one tagged is now private property so enter around the south side past the hotel looking for this second marker.
Ling Jing
(As of Oct 2025) Ultimately found the waterfall with AllTrails. See pictures - 1, 2) get to the location at the blue dot on map, 3) will see a sign pointing to the falls, 4) first part of walk is next to a construction area on the left and hotels on the right, 5) then will see the sign in middle of the trail and go into the forest, 6) should arrive at falls within 5 minutes
Hannah Moes
YOU CAN STILL VISIT THE FALLS!! Only one entrance closed! (Probably because the owner of the private land got sick of disrespectful tourists 🙃) Head down Chisujinotaki St in front of the Mikawaya Ryokan. It is a beautiful short walk with a small but gorgeous falls!
Lauren Vu
A little hard to find, even with Google maps. Lots of possible wrong turns to take. Attached photos of a few places along the way to finding it. Great place, very pretty! Overall, an easy hike. Look for the building/sign in photo with "parking" on it. Follow the road, will pass white chisuji sign. Keep going down main path until you see the wooden sign with 5 on it (see photo), then go down that t...
Pam L
Beautiful and peaceful waterfall to visit on a Sunday. The hike to get to the falls is all up-hill, and since we were traveling with a toddler we took a taxi to the entrance which was well worth the money in the summer heat and very convenient since we didn’t see any parking. The walk back was a bit intense in one neighborhood carrying a 25-pound toddler up a steep hill, but it was brief. We caugh...
When is the best time to visit Chisuji Falls (Hakone, Japan)?
Visit in spring for fresh green foliage and in autumn for vibrant maple leaves. Arrive at dusk in early July to see fireflies flicker above the water strands.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Train or bus to Kowakudani Station (round-trip) | JPY 1,800 |
| Picnic snacks | JPY 1,200 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 3,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Chisuji Falls
Address: 507 Kowakudani, Hakone, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 250-0406, Japan
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About Chisuji Falls
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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