This route will take you from the city and through the lush green mountains of the Kumano area. You'll go upstream against the Kumano-gawa River and ride along the Takada-gawa River. On your way to the waterfall, take a breather at the 1st Takada Natural Pool and cycle further inwards to reach the start of the waterfall trail.
Normal bikes and cross-bikes can be rented from the Tourist Association Centre!
Take the National Route 168 eastwards from the city centre. Turn right at the Tunnel East intersection and after riding through the pedestrian and bike tunnel, you'll be able to see the mountains of Kumano, with its lush nature spread far before your eyes.
Make sure to take the old tunnel when you turn to Route 168, as this is no longer used by cars and is easier to traverse through.
Once you have been riding for around 5km with Kumano-gawa River to your right, you will reach the bridge that crosses Takada-gawa River, a stream that leads into the Kumano-gawa River. After this, leave National Route 168 to proceed along the road that follows the Takada-gawa River.
You'll see a large mountain on the right hand side, with a chunk seemingly missing out of it. Seeing this will be your signal to turn left at the lights!
After riding along the Takada-gawa River for a while, you will come across a public swimming pool that sits within the river itself. This calm corner of the river is really popular with the locals in the summer time, but also makes a great spot to sit and rest your legs near the water. Take a break by this beautiful river.
You'll need to cross a small bridge over the stream to get to the start of the pathway leading into Kuwanoki Falls. This is best indicated by the 'Top 100 Waterfalls in Japan' signage, and the small graveyard next to it. Leave your bikes close by and begin the short trek inwards - there is only one trail to the waterfall so it won't be hard to find.
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On your walk towards the waterfall, you'll go past the Oga Hachiman-Jinja Shrine. Crossing the small suspension bridge over the stream will take you further into the woods.
About 10 minutes from the suspension bridge, a 21m high by 8m wide waterfall will appear before your eyes. Kuwanoki Falls has been selected as one of the 100 Most Magnificent Waterfalls in Japan and looks especially scenic when a lot of water flows through after rainy days.
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