Explore the stunning scenery of Ogawa Falls in Minamiosumi Town, Kagoshima! Delve into the filming location of “Segodon” and admire the emerald green waterfall basin, including guides to the trails, transportation, and best viewing times.
Introduction
In Kagoshima Prefecture, located at the southern tip of Kyushu, Japan, lies a natural hidden gem that has recently attracted significant attention and boasts breathtaking beauty – Ogawa Falls. This waterfall, situated in Minamiosumi Town upstream of the Ogawa River, may not have a dramatic drop, but the waterfall basin below, shimmering with an incredible emerald green light under the sunlight, exudes an ineffable sense of mystery and healing. Since becoming a filming location for the opening sequence of the NHK historical drama “Segodon” and the movie “Kingdom,” the fame of Ogawa Falls has soared, attracting countless travelers to witness its beauty. This article will take you deep into the core of Ogawa Falls’ charm, explore the secret of its captivating emerald green, introduce two different viewing paths, share the best time to visit, and provide detailed transportation and important notes, allowing you to be fully prepared to personally experience this natural jewel hidden in the Osumi Peninsula of Kagoshima.
Unveiling the Mystery of the Emerald Green: The Unique Charm of Ogawa Falls
The most attractive feature of Ogawa Falls is undoubtedly the waterfall basin that presents a dreamlike emerald green color.
Nature’s Palette: Why Emerald Green?
Waterfall Characteristics: Ogawa Falls has a drop of approximately 46 meters and a width of 60 meters. The water cascades down from a massive granite rock face covered with columnar joints. In addition to the main waterfall flow, there are several seeping groundwater flows from the rock face, all merging into the deep basin below. Cause of the Emerald Green: Regarding the reason why the waterfall basin presents a beautiful emerald green color, although there is no single definitive answer, it is generally believed to be related to the following factors:
- Clear Water Quality: The stream water from the upstream is pure and has high transparency.
- Light Refraction: Sunlight penetrates the clear water body, scattering and reflecting off tiny particles or minerals in the water, making blue-green light more visible.
- Rock Background: The color of the rocks or sediments at the bottom of the waterfall basin may influence the visual effect.
- Light Angle and Intensity: The angle and intensity of sunlight are key factors affecting the color presentation. Usually, when the sunlight can directly illuminate the water surface, the emerald green hue is the most vibrant and saturated. Its color will change with the light, showing subtle layers.
Scenic Stage for Historical Dramas: The Endorsement of “Segodon” and “Kingdom”
Ogawa Falls was originally a hidden gem known only to locals. Its significant increase in popularity is mainly due to being a filming location for films and TV dramas:
- NHK Historical Drama “Segodon” (2018): In the opening sequence of this drama, the magnificent and mysterious scenery of Ogawa Falls was impressive, attracting widespread attention and a surge in visitors.
- Movie “Kingdom” (2019): This movie, adapted from a popular manga, also chose this location for filming, further enhancing the recognition of Ogawa Falls both domestically and internationally.
The success of these works allowed more people to discover this natural beauty hidden in the Osumi Peninsula.
Exploring the Secret Place from Two Perspectives: Observatory vs. Valley Trail
To admire the beautiful scenery of Ogawa Falls, there are primarily two ways, allowing you to experience its charm from different angles.
Easy Overview: The View from the Upstream Observatory (Ogawa Falls Observatory)
- Location and Access: An “Ogawa Falls Observatory” is located upstream of the Ogawa River near the national highway. There is a parking lot here, and you can reach the observation deck without walking.
- View: From the observatory, you can overlook the entire panorama of Ogawa Falls, including the waterfall cascading down from the rock face and the waterfall basin below. The view is wide, allowing you to easily take in both the waterfall and the surrounding valley scenery.
- Advantages: The most convenient access, suitable for visitors with limited time or those who have difficulty walking.
- Disadvantages: It is far from the waterfall, making it impossible to feel the grandeur of the waterfall and the details of the basin’s color up close.
Into the Valley: The 1.2 km Healing Trail
- Entrance and Parking: There is another dedicated parking lot (Ogawa Falls Parking Lot) downstream of the Ogawa River. From here, you need to walk along the stream-side trail to reach the front of the waterfall basin.
- Trail Experience: This trail is about 1.2 kilometers one way, built along the clear Ogawa River valley. The path is flat and well-maintained, taking about 20-30 minutes to walk one way.
- Along the way, you can enjoy the valley scenery, listen to the sound of the flowing water and birdsong, and enjoy a forest bath. The process itself is a healing experience.
- You will pass by the “Takimi Great Bridge” along the way, and looking up at the bridge from below is also a special perspective.
- Reaching the Waterfall Basin: The end of the trail is directly in front of the waterfall basin. You can view the waterfall cascading down at close range, feel the coolness of the splashing water, and admire the emerald green basin from the best angle.
- Advantages: Allows you to experience the impact of the waterfall and the beauty of the basin up close, with beautiful scenery along the way.
- Disadvantages: Requires walking a certain distance, and the return journey is a gentle uphill slope.
Recommendation: If time and physical ability permit, it is highly recommended to take the downstream valley trail to truly appreciate the essence of Ogawa Falls. If time is tight or mobility is limited, you can choose the upstream observatory.
Planning Your Trip to Ogawa Falls: Best Time, Transportation, and Precautions
Best Time for Viewing:
- Time: To see the most beautiful emerald green, it is recommended to choose a sunny day during the late morning to early afternoon (approximately 10:00 – 14:00). During this time, the sunlight is more likely to shine directly into the waterfall basin.
- Season: Each season offers a different appearance. Spring and summer have fresh greenery, autumn may have some autumn leaves, and in winter, the water volume may be lower, but the water quality is clearer.
- Impact of Rain: After a moderate amount of rain, the waterfall volume will be more abundant, and the scenery will be more spectacular. However, if there is too much rain, it may cause the stream to swell, and the trail may be closed for safety reasons. Also, the water in the basin may become cloudy, affecting the appearance of the emerald green. After heavy rain or a typhoon, be sure to confirm whether the trail is open.
Transportation Methods:
- Main Method: Driving: The most convenient way to get to Ogawa Falls is by driving.
- Navigation Settings:
- To go to the Valley Trail Entrance, please set your navigation to “雄川の滝駐車場” or use Map Code: 498 646 627*22.
- To go to the Upstream Observatory, please set your navigation to “雄川の滝展望所”.
- Starting from Major Locations: Driving from Kagoshima Airport takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. From downtown Kagoshima (via ferry or expressway), it takes over 2 hours and 15 minutes.
- Parking Lots: There are free parking lots at both the upstream and downstream entrances (the downstream parking lot has about 70 spaces).
- Public Transportation (Very Inconvenient): There are almost no public bus routes reaching the falls, making it extremely difficult to get there using public transportation.
【Important!】Entrance Fee and Safety Reminders:
- Entrance Fee: Starting from July 1, 2024, a “user contribution fee (entrance fee)” will be collected to maintain the environment and facilities.
- Adults (Junior high school students and above): 300 JPY
- Elementary school students: 150 JPY
- Preschool children: Free
- Holders of a physical disability certificate and one accompanying person: Adults 200 JPY, elementary school students and below are free.
- Payment Method: Payment can be made in cash or cashless payment at the management hut next to the downstream parking lot.
- Opening Hours: The trail entrance is open from approximately 8:00/8:30 until sunset. Entry is prohibited at night.
- Safety First:
- Swimming or playing in the waterfall basin or stream is strictly prohibited.
- Trail Walking Caution: Although the trail is well-maintained, some sections are close to the stream and may be slippery. Please wear non-slip, comfortable shoes (sports shoes, hiking shoes).
- Sudden Weather Changes: Mountain weather can change quickly, so it is recommended to bring rain gear. In case of heavy rain or rising stream water, do not force entry onto the trail and follow the instructions of the staff on site.
- Drone Prohibition: The use of drones is prohibited within the park.
Surrounding Facilities and Attractions:
- Aqua Base Cafe: Located next to the downstream parking lot, it offers light meals, drinks, and desserts made with local ingredients.
- Cape Sata: The southernmost point of mainland Japan, boasting spectacular ocean views and a lighthouse. It is about a 40-50 minute drive from Ogawa Falls, so you can plan to visit both.
- Other Attractions in Minamiosumi Town: You can explore the coastal scenery or historical sites in the Nejime area.
- Official Travel Information: For the latest information, please refer to the Minamiosumi Town Tourism Website or the Kagoshima Prefectural Visitors Bureau Website.
- Related Articles: Okkoshiki Coast Complete Guide: A Hidden Gem of Kumamoto Woven with Sunset and Sand Patterns
Conclusion
Ogawa Falls, a natural treasure hidden deep within the Osumi Peninsula of Kagoshima, has become the perfect destination to escape the hustle and bustle and seek healing and spectacular scenery with its stunning emerald green waterfall basin and serene valley trail. Whether you easily overlook the panoramic view from the observatory or choose to delve deep into the valley, walking along the flowing stream to the front of the waterfall basin to feel the coolness and impact, both experiences allow you to forget your worries and immerse yourself in the marvels of nature. Although Ogawa Falls gained fame from “Segodon,” its charm extends far beyond a fleeting glimpse on screen. When planning your next trip to Southern Kyushu, why not include this beautiful hidden waterfall in your itinerary and come personally to explore the legendary emerald green!
Are you also attracted by the emerald green of Ogawa Falls? Will you choose to walk the trail for a close view or easily overlook it from the observatory? If you found this guide helpful for planning your Kagoshima trip, please share it with friends who also love natural beauty!
