What to know
Shiraito Waterfall (白糸の滝, Shiraito no Taki) lies in the forests north of central Karuizawa. It stands only three meters tall but stretches 70 meters wide. Above the falls, mountain slopes contain a volcanic layer where groundwater flows before emerging here, which is why no river feeds the waterfall. Since only a small portion of the water comes from rainfall, the flow remains fairly steady regardless of weather.
The name Shiraito no Taki means "waterfall of white threads," perfectly describing its look: multiple streams of water cascade over the rock face, forming a white curtain. The site is most beautiful in summer when vegetation is lush, and it's also a popular spot for autumn colors around late October each year.
Kusakaru Kotsu runs buses from Karuizawa Station to Shiraito Waterfall (25 minutes, 720 yen one way, 1-2 buses per hour, less frequent in winter). Get off at the "Shiraito no Taki" bus stop, from which the waterfall is a five-minute walk.
The waterfall is along the Shiraito Highlandway toll road (500 yen for cars), which starts just north of the Former Mikasa Hotel and ends at the Mine no Chaya intersection.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- Always open
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- Free
- English name
- Original name
- Shiraito Waterfall
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