SPOT
Shirahige Falls
A 30m waterfall that looks like a white beard. The underground water of the Tokachi mountain range flows between natural rocks and swiftly down into the mountain stream, splashing up the cobalt blue Biei River. This is one of the tourist attractions in Biei Shirogane Onsen Town, where you can see it up close. It is classified as a "submerged waterfall," which is rare even in Japan. The river below, which can be seen from the bridge, is commonly known as the "Blue River," and its blue flow is the source of the "Shirogane Blue Pond" downstream.
You can also enjoy the night illumination, which has been permanently installed since November 2018. In winter, the contrast between the waterfall, the white snow, and the rock surface becomes more pronounced, and the spray and steam from the waterfall creates frost on the trees, creating an even more fantastical view. The blue flow of the Blue River, which cuts straight through the white snow, also stands out even more vividly in winter.
Business Hours
*Illumination times (from the times below until 21:00)
October, November 17:00~ / December 16:30~ / January 17:00~ / February 17:30~ / March 18:00~ / April 18:30~ / May to September 18:00~
Fee
free
parking lot
Available (free / Shirokane Tourist Center)
Location
Shirokane, Biei Town, Kamikawa District
Access
・About 30 minutes by car from JR Biei Station (MAP CODE: 796 182 604)
・About 30 minutes by Dohoku bus. After getting off at the bus stop "Biei Shirogane Onsen", it is about a 3 minute walk.
*The information listed is current as of April 2025.
*The information posted may be subject to change, so please check the official website for details.