Hiji Falls is the largest waterfall on Okinawa Island, hidden deep within the lush forests of Yanbaru, the mountainous northern region of Okinawa. With its subtropical forests, abundant wildlife, and beautiful river scenery, the journey to the waterfall is as rewarding as the destination itself.
Yanbaru is one of the areas of Okinawa where extensive forests and mountainous landscapes remain. Hiji Falls lies deep within this natural environment, offering visitors an opportunity to experience a wilder side of Okinawa far from the island’s busy resort areas.
The entrance to the trail and campground is about 4 kilometers from the entrance to Kunigami Village. Before setting out, visitors can take a break at a café where the gentle sound of the nearby river creates a relaxing atmosphere.
From there, the trail winds through a subtropical jungle for approximately 40 minutes before reaching the waterfall. The trail is well maintained, although there are some steep stairways along the way. There are no extremely rugged mountain paths, making it possible to enjoy the walk at a leisurely pace while surrounded by the sounds and greenery of the forest.
About halfway along the route, a 50-meter-long suspension bridge crosses the Hiji River. Rising 17 meters above the river, the bridge provides an exciting part of the journey and offers a different perspective on the surrounding forest and flowing water.
Crossing the bridge and continuing deeper into the forest gives the hike a genuine sense of adventure, while the well-maintained trail keeps the route accessible to visitors who want to experience Yanbaru’s natural environment without undertaking a demanding mountain trek.
The forest around Hiji Falls is home to a wide variety of plants and wildlife characteristic of Okinawa’s subtropical environment. As the trail follows the river and moves deeper into the jungle, visitors can observe the dense vegetation and listen to the sounds of the surrounding forest.
The area around the waterfall is particularly impressive when the river is carrying abundant water. The combination of the lush jungle, clear flowing water, and distinctive subtropical vegetation creates a refreshing natural atmosphere.
After walking through the forest, visitors are rewarded with the sight of Hiji Falls, which drops 25.7 meters. The waterfall emerges dramatically from the surrounding greenery, creating a beautiful focal point at the end of the trail.
Standing before the waterfall after the walk through the jungle makes the destination feel especially rewarding. The sound of falling water and the dense forest surrounding the falls offer a peaceful contrast to Okinawa’s better-known beaches and resort areas.
Hiji Falls offers a completely different experience from the tropical beaches for which Okinawa is famous. The journey takes visitors through the heart of Yanbaru, across a suspension bridge, alongside a flowing river, and through a lush subtropical forest before reaching Okinawa Island’s largest waterfall.
For travelers who enjoy hiking, waterfalls, wildlife, and subtropical nature, the trail to Hiji Falls is an excellent way to discover the natural beauty of northern Okinawa.
From the peaceful river near the trailhead to the suspension bridge and the dramatic 25.7-meter waterfall, every part of the route offers something to discover. The well-maintained trail and absence of extremely rugged mountain sections make it possible to enjoy the forest at a relaxed pace, while the occasional steep stairs add a sense of adventure.
For anyone wanting to step away from Okinawa’s beaches and experience the island’s lush forests, rivers, wildlife, and waterfalls, Hiji Falls is a memorable destination deep in the natural landscapes of Yanbaru.
Summer (April-October) 9:00-16:00, closing at 18:00
Winter (November - March)9:00-15:00, closing at 17:30
Open all year round
Admission fee
Adult 500 yen
300 yen for children
By car from Naha Airport
1. When using the expressway: Naha IC → Xuden IC → National Road No. 58 → Prefectural Road No. 70, approx. 2 hrs.
2. By open road only: Approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes via National Route 58
3. Approx. 50 minutes from the nearest Hukuda IC via National Route 58