Ryugaeshi Falls 竜返しの滝

The least crowded of three Karuizawa waterfalls

Shiraito Waterfall on the Shiraito Highland Way in Karuizawa is spectacular. My traveling companion and I were impressed by the natural beauty, but we were also curious about the other waterfalls in the town. We decided on Ryugaeshi Waterfall, but made a big mistake. My advice is, if you take the bus along the narrow road, do not get off at the bus stop identified as Ryugaeshi. You can hear the rush of the river, but you can't access it from there. And...pedestrians and bicycles are prohibited on the Way because it's just way too narrow. Instead, get off at Koseonsen bus stop and walk north on the wide path next to a hotel. Walk about 10 minutes, cross the river on a bridge, and you'll be rewarded with the spectacle of a thundering 10 metre waterfall, fresh air, and green forest. Note that this is bear territory. Bring a bell or metallic things to bang together to warn them of your approach.