Ōdaru (大滝)
May 3rd, 2026
Location: Japan, Shizuoka Prefecture, Izu Peninsula
Ōdaru (大滝), the largest waterfall in the Kawazu Nanadaru (Seven Waterfalls) area along the Hontani River in Kawazu-cho, Shizuoka Prefecture, on the Izu Peninsula.
After a long first-time drive in Japan — complete with driving on the left side of the road and getting lost for hours in the shadow of Mount Fuji — we finally arrived at our hotel, Nanadaru Onsen Hotel. This lovely, tucked-away building sits in a quiet rural town with narrow roads winding through lush countryside. Bamboo groves dotted the rolling hills, and the greenery felt almost overwhelming in its vibrancy.
Our room was simple and traditional, with futons laid on tatami mats. The staff asked us to change into yukata robes before heading to the onsen. Like weary travelers have done for thousands of years, we made our way straight to the onsen waters. The rain fell gently, plopping on the surface around us and creating a delightful contrast to the warm soak. The water did what onsen water does best: clean, clear, and deeply nourish.
The next day we filmed at the hotel’s onsen at 5 a.m. It was the living embodiment of tranquility. We were in awe of the vibrant, almost hyper-colored green surroundings, the soothing sound of flowing water, and the profound peace it evoked.
Later we filmed at Ōdaru
Ōdaru is the seventh and largest of the Kawazu Nanadaru waterfalls on the Hontani River. What makes it special is immediately obvious: it is breathtakingly beautiful, with an incredible volume of falling water, moisture heavy in the air, incredibly lush greenery, and onsen pools at the base and flanking the river. It feels like heaven — you can easily get lost in its beauty.
But the real hidden gem is a unique pool tucked away right beside the waterfall, almost hidden by overgrowth. A red light hangs by the opening of what feels like a cave entrance. When you step inside and let your eyes adjust to the low light, you’re in for a fun treat. It feels like entering a forgotten subterranean industrial space: bare cement walls, a single hanging lamp, and daylight too far away to reach the water. The pool inside forms a narrow channel in an almost V-shape, with two entrances — one at each end.
I rank this as #2 on his list of the most oddball hot springs, with #1 being Essence of Tranquility.
Shooting at Ōdaru, I went handheld, capturing dynamic shots that highlighted the powerful 30-meter (approx. 100 ft) drop and the ruins of ancient onsen pools long abandoned along the river.
These pools offered varying temperatures. The water was silky smooth and noticeably non-drying post soak. The pool closest to the falls was alive with mist from the crashing water — standing there makes you feel invigorated, youthful, and deeply connected to the earth and the raw power of nature. This is exactly why we seek out these places.
I can easily imagine a band of samurai discovering this waterfall after a long march. They would bathe in the hot springs to soothe aching muscles and heal battle wounds, drink from the pure river, and offer prayers to the gods of war, water, and healing.
There’s a profound quiet in the pauses between the waterfall’s roar — where you can hear the wind whispering through the ancient trees. It almost feels as if the old trees are speaking… or perhaps the spirits of the land themselves.
We captured several shots with the Ursa Mini using beautiful natural morning light at the hotel onsen. At the falls, we filmed during the day while being discreet, but the footage turned out breathtaking — successfully conveying the true majesty of the location.
All in all, the water was silky, clean, and traditional. It left our skin feeling soft rather than dry. At 5 a.m., you could hear the river flowing steadily and the morning birds beginning their songs.
It was the most amazing way to start our Japan trip. A perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and deep connection to nature that set the tone for everything that followed. We left refreshed, inspired, and already dreaming of our return to Izu’s hidden gems.
This experience reminded us why we hot spring: to find those rare places where nature, history, and renewal come together in perfect harmony.