Fukuroda Falls, Ibaraki, Japan
I visited a hidden gem in Daigo, Ibaraki Prefecture — a stunning 120m waterfall. While it’s most popular during autumn for its foilage, I wanted to see it frozen in winter.
From Mito Station, I took a train to Fukuroda Station and walked to the waterfall. Before hiking, I explored the illuminated tunnel filled with holiday-themed displays leading to the viewing platforms. The frozen waterfall was breathtaking.
I exited through the back and started my hike up steep steps beside the waterfall. There were signs warning the steps are steep but I didn’t think too much of it. At first, it wasn’t too bad, but higher up, the steps became so narrow that only half my foot fit on some of them! After about 470 steps, the trail became easier, leading me to Mt. Tsukiore (404m) and the ruins of an old castle.
I didn’t stay long since the cold was setting in, so I descended through a forested trail back to town. After a warm bowl of soba, I made it back to Fukuroda Station just in time to catch my train — with only three minutes to spare.
Route Detail
Distance: 8.46km out & back from Fukuroda Station
Total elevation gain: 425m
Time: 1h 50m (total time with breaks 2h 21m)
Difficulty: Moderate
Peak: Mt Tsukiore 月居山 404m
Transportation & Miscellaneous
Train from Mito Station to Fukuroda Station ¥990
Fukuroda Falls Tunnel ¥300
Food ¥1000
