The breathtaking autumn colors at Shomyo Falls — Japan’s tallest waterfall dyed in autumn hues, Toyama’s Mt. Tateyama in fall

Shōmyō Falls, located in Tateyama Town, Toyama Prefecture, is Japan’s largest waterfall and is also known as a symbol of the Mt. Tateyama faith.

In autumn, the surrounding valleys are enveloped in autumn colors, creating a breathtaking scene as they contrast with the waterfall’s white cascade.

Accessible by bus or on foot from Mt. Tateyama Station, the road closes for the winter in late autumn,

This sight can only be seen during the brief period from mid-October to early November.

The harmony of nature, played by waterfalls and autumn leaves, is surely a gift from Mt. Tateyama’s brief autumn. (Gallery Light and Color Around Shōmyō Falls in Autumn)

Impressive scale and excellent accessibility

Shomyo Falls in Mt. Tateyama Town, Toyama Prefecture, is a renowned waterfall boasting Japan’s highest drop of 350 meters. The cascading water, plunging in multiple tiers with a thunderous roar, creates an overwhelming spectacle. During the autumn foliage season, its beauty stands out even more strikingly.

About an hour by car from Toyama City, with buses also running from Mt. Tateyama Station, its relatively easy access is another appealing feature. During winter (mid-November to late April), the road closes due to snow accumulation, but it remains open for visits in other seasons. Before heading out, check the latest information on Tateyama Town’s official website (Tateyama Town Tourism Information).

Tips for Avoiding Crowds During the Autumn Foliage Season

During the autumn foliage season (late October to early November), Prefectural Route 6 leading to Shōmyō Falls becomes extremely congested. Especially on weekends and holidays, traffic jams often start near the Katsuradai Gate, and it can take over an hour to drive the several kilometers of uphill road to the parking lot.

This road is a single lane with no shortcuts, so early morning departure is essential to avoid traffic jams. I myself once got caught in a jam and had to turn back, so since then I’ve made it a point to leave when the Katsuradai Gate opens (times vary by season, but in November it’s 7:00 AM). If departing from Toyama City, aim to leave around 6:00 AM to arrive at the parking lot by about 7:30 AM.

Peak Season and Best Time for Autumn Foliage

The autumn foliage at Shōmyō Falls is at its most brilliantly beautiful from late October to early November (around Culture Day).

The area around the waterfall is at a high elevation, so mornings get quite chilly. Due to the terrain surrounded by cliffs, sunlight doesn’t reach the area until late morning. We recommend warming up while walking the approximately 2km trail and leisurely enjoying the autumn leaves bathed in the soft morning light. The valley and waterfall don’t brighten up until after noon, so around midday is best for seeing the vibrant autumn colors (though whether you get caught in traffic depends on luck).

Key points for photography

Along the walking path leading from the parking lot to the waterfall viewing area, the autumn colors of beech and maple trees covering the cliffs spread out like a painting. The time before the morning oblique light arrives is ideal for photography, as the light is soft and the colors of the autumn leaves appear deep and rich.

During this time of day, shadows are prevalent, so using a tripod is recommended. Once the sun begins to shine through, you might also aim for dramatic compositions with strong contrast.

Spectacular views from Takimidai Park

Upon arriving at Takimidai Garden, the full expanse of Shōmyō Falls unfolds before your eyes. You can capture the waterfall and autumn foliage together with a wide-angle lens, or use a telephoto lens to frame the falls through the vibrant leaves. As time passes, the foliage on the left bank of the falls is illuminated by the morning sun, gradually glowing golden—a breathtakingly beautiful sight.

On the way back, the autumn leaves that were shaded on the way there are now bathed in the morning sun, revealing a different expression. You’ll feel as if you’re walking through entirely different worlds on the round trip.

Summary ~ Toyama’s Autumn Reaches Its Peak Here ~

The autumn foliage at Shōmyō Falls is nothing short of Toyama’s finest masterpiece of autumn, where the majestic nature of the Northern Alps and the scale of Japan’s largest waterfall intertwine.

The quiet of the early morning, the crisp air, and the autumn leaves coloring the gorge alongside the shimmering water.

If you could witness a moment when everything is in perfect harmony, it would be a sight you’d never forget for the rest of your life.

If the weather and timing are favorable, be sure to visit. The autumn foliage at Shōmyō Falls will surely leave a deep impression on your heart.