Eniwa is just the right distance for a drive from Sapporo or Chitose. If you feel like getting in touch with nature while driving, how about visiting Eniwa Valley? There are three unique waterfalls scattered around, all within walking distance! If you drive from Sapporo on National Route 453 towards Chitose, you will come to a point where it merges with Prefectural Route 117, so turn left there. Continue along Prefectural Route 117 towards Eniwa for about 6km and you will arrive at Eniwa Valley. The first thing you will see is Hakusen Falls.

It is 15m high and 18m wide, and is named after its shape that resembles a pure white fan. The waterfall is graceful yet roars with force! There is a parking lot, and it is located right after you get off the car, so it is easy for anyone to get there.

Photo courtesy of Eniwa City, Flowers, Greenery and Tourism Division, Economic Affairs Department

By the way, Eniwa Valley is said to be the most beautiful in autumn when the leaves change color. Indeed, the contrast between the waterfall and the autumn leaves is quite picturesque! A little further in the direction of Eniwa from Shiraougi Falls is Rarumanai Falls.

Both sides of the Lalumanai Falls are lined with lush greenery, and the water flows dynamically between the large trees. This waterfall also changes its appearance during the autumn foliage season, and the number of visitors increases.

Photo courtesy of Eniwa City, Flowers, Greenery and Tourism Division, Economic Affairs Department

There is a well-maintained parking lot near the Rarumanai Falls, but there is no parking space at the Sandan Falls, which I will introduce next. It is about 300 meters away from the Rarumanai Falls, so you will have to walk there.

Sandan no Taki waterfall was named after the three tiers of white ribbon-like waterfalls that flow down. The view from the bridge and the waterfall viewing plaza below the bridge give a different impression. The best viewing spots for each of the three waterfalls in Eniwa Valley are clearly marked, so if you want to take photos, be sure to check them out.

Photo courtesy of Eniwa City, Flowers, Greenery and Tourism Division, Economic Affairs Department

It's great to be able to enjoy three unique waterfalls at once, but there are other places in Eniwa Valley where you can experience nature. For example, about 4km from Sandan Falls towards Eniwa is the Midori no Furusato Forest Park. Another 2km from there is the Iragawa Dam.

Take a leisurely stroll while gazing at the gigantic Izarigawa Dam and Lake Eniwa, whose surface is beautifully still when there is no wind. It's a great time to get away from your daily routine and cleanse your mind. Nearby, there is Eniwa Lake Freedom Square, where you can have a barbecue, and Sakura Park, where about 300 trees, including Chishima cherry blossoms, bloom.

Photo courtesy of Eniwa City, Flowers, Greenery and Tourism Division, Economic Affairs Department

Even just a quick introduction to Eniwa Valley shows us that there is so much to see. If you live in a nearby city or town, why not choose Eniwa Valley for a drive on the weekend? You will surely feel refreshed and rejuvenated.

<Interview cooperation> Eniwa City Economic Department Flowers, Greenery and Tourism Division Contact: 0123-33-3131 (main number) Address: 1 Kyomachi, Eniwa City, Hokkaido Official site: https://www.city.eniwa.hokkaido.jp/