Trip to Spiritual Spots
Wara – Encountering Romantic Myths

[Legend of Shirohato-no-taki Waterfall] A mysterious waterfall

Our next destination is the waterfall “Mitarai-no-taki Waterfall” near to Kabuchibora Cave of the branch of Waragawa River. We found that it is a bit tricky to go after looking at the map. First we head to Wara River Auto Camp Place and find a signboard with “Mitarai-no-taki Waterfall” written on it. We park our car and start to go on foot.

We can hear the sound of water when we go into the mountain. Before arriving at Mitarai-no-taki Waterfall, we meet lots of small waterfalls feeling refreshing. Roots and trunks of trees are lying down to form stairs and paths for people to pass. Seeing the large fern allies and hearing the sounds around, we finally see the Mitarai-no-taki Waterfall after a 10 minutes’ walk!

◆Legend 2 : Two white doves guiding lost visitors

Let me introduce the myth here.

Once upon a time, a hunter entered the mountain and was lost. “Please tell me where to go.” he prayed. Two white doves appeared and guided him back to the village. It took place at this waterfall, Mitarai-no-taki Waterfall.

Both water dropping from the top or water from the waterfall basin are so beautiful! Dove is said to be the servant of God. Encountering two white doves is a miracle making you feel the power of God. According to the signboard, this waterfall was written as Tarumi in the oldest Wakashu (Collection of Japanese poems), Manyoshu.

There were two words “Taruue (Over the waterfall)” and “Tarushita (Under the waterfall)” of the literature in Wara at that time. Maybe there was a literary man living here in the past? Or maybe Gyouki monk visited this place when he planned to establish the big Buddha at Todaiji Temple and raised fund by travelling around the country. When I know that great people and readings on history textbooks are related to Wara, history is so near to us.

Although the path heading to the water is well built with stairs and bridges, all materials used are natural trunks of trees and rocks, we recommend you wear sneakers when you come. This path is not that dangerous. You can wash your hands in small waterfall and see rocks polishing by nature, just like children playing sports. Showering negative ions through the fresh greenery in spring, camping to get cool and seeing autumn leaves are some ways to enjoy all seasons here.