Fukiware Valley

"A picturesque valley located 25 minutes from the Numata Interchange on the Kan-Etsu Expressway traveling along National Route 120 toward Nikko in Nikko City, Gunma Prefecture. Fukiware Falls, found inside the valley, is a seven meter high, 30 meter wide waterfall which flows down a huge crack in the bedrock, and according to legend its plunge basin leads to the mythical palace of the Dragon King. Other highlights include beautiful places sculpted by the forces of nature like Masutobi Waterfall (""Trout Jumping Waterfall""), whose name is derived from the trout which vigorously jump and climb its waters; and the Hannya-iwa (""Prajna Rock""); as well as the Ukishima Kannondo, a temple believed to have been built in the early Heian period. Visitors can also enjoy hiking in the area and there are bridges and platforms which allow the area's waterfalls to be viewed up close scattered about."