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Awamata Falls: Enjoy Meditation and Forest Bathing・粟又の滝：森林浴が楽しめるパワースポット
Location: Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 12:37・2024/07/10
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP + 10-stop ND filter
45 mm ISO 200 for 2.0 sec. at ƒ/8
Downstream from Awamata Falls, the effects of Typhoon Yun-yeung (#13), which struck on September 8, 2023, are still evident. The area is strewn with wood debris and large boulders, and parts of the promenade that once lined the shoreline are missing.
Despite the current condition of the Yōrō River (養老川, Yōrōgawa) downstream, the waterfall is considered the most famous in the Yoro Valley of Chiba’s Boso area, as noted by the local municipality. It flows gracefully down a 100-meter rock face, resembling a natural waterslide and creating a picturesque scene perfect for landscape photography.
At the base of the falls lies a shallow pond, extending into a stream that is popular during summer. Young families flock here, seeking a safe environment for children to play and interact with nature.
Promotional materials from the Chiba Prefectural Government, the Chiba Prefectural Tourism & Local Products Association, and Otaki Town encourage visits in autumn. As temperatures drop to a more comfortable level, the valley transforms into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, typically peaking from November to early December. Otaki Town proudly touts this foliage spectacle as one of Chiba Prefecture's finest.
For those traveling by car, parking at the hotel across from the trailhead to the falls costs only 500 yen. The Tourism Division of Otaki Town reminds visitors to pack out their trash and note that barbecues are prohibited in Yoro Valley and surrounding areas. Please follow the "Leave No Trace" principles and be mindful of your surroundings, mirroring the behavior of local families.
At the end of your visit, consider supporting the local businesses near the trailhead. These establishments rely on the patronage of visitors and guests from the nearby hotel.
Shop ①: Yama Neko (里のジェラテリア 山猫)
This upscale shop offers drinks, gelato, and ice cream. Its stylish, modern interior is reminiscent of high-end spots in central Tokyo and the Yokohama MM21 waterfront.
Shop ②: Takinoya (滝乃家)
A quaint mom-and-pop teahouse, Takinoya sells groceries, cold drinks, and a variety of soft ice cream flavors. During winter, they serve hot amazake to warm you up. The charming elderly owner is a delight to converse with if you speak Japanese. The shop exudes a nostalgic Showa era vibe, offering a timeless experience that resonates with older visitors like myself.
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