Chisuji Falls (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Chisuji Falls?
What makes it 83% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can hike from Kowakudani Station in 15 minutes, enjoy quiet photography and short forest trails, and is unlikely to mind the absence of toilets or other facilities.
Positives:
- Free entry: No admission fee or time restrictions for the falls.
- Serene setting: Quiet trail away from main tourist spots.
Challenges:
- Limited facilities: No restrooms or shops near the falls.
- Uneven path: Steep gravel sections may be slippery when wet.
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 solo trip?
- Free detour off the Hakone Loop
- Thin water threads over lush moss
- Short hike to Takanosu rest area
- Seasonal fireflies and foliage highlights
- Quiet spot ideal for solo photography
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows viewing the falls, photography, and a short hike.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Chisuji Falls
Short waterfall hike:
Hike 1 km trail up to the Takanosu rest area.
Tip: Start at Kowakudani Station and follow signs for clear markers.
Quick Hakone Loop detour:
Detour 15 min from the cable car station.
Tip: Hop off at Kowakudani Station on your Hakone Loop for a calm nature break.
Nature photography:
Capture thin water streams over mossy rock.
Tip: Use a tripod and low shutter speed for silky water effects.
Birdwatching or sketching:
Sit at the bench near Takanosu for forest edge views.
Tip: Bring binoculars or a sketchbook to observe local songbirds.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Chisuji Falls
- Travel light: Carry only essentials and water for the hike.
- Use offline maps: Download a trail map before entering areas with poor signal.
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 leaves, autumn for maple colors, or early July at dusk to see fireflies over the streams.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip train to Kowakudani | JPY 600 |
| Snack or drink | JPY 500 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 1,100 |
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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