Hiji Falls Trail winds through pristine Yanbaru subtropical forest to Okinawa's most impressive waterfall, a 26-meter cascade into a turquoise swimming pool, passing suspension bridges and habitat for the endemic Okinawa Rail.
The Hiji Falls Trail is the signature hike of Yanbaru National Park, following the Hiji River upstream through dense subtropical canopy forest for about 1.6 kilometers to reach Hiji Falls, a 26-meter cascade regarded as Okinawa's most impressive waterfall. The path crosses several wooden and suspension bridges over the river and passes through limestone outcrops draped in ferns and epiphytic orchids. The forest here is part of the habitat range for the critically endangered Okinawa Rail (yanbaru kuina), a flightless bird found nowhere else on earth, along with the Okinawa woodpecker and numerous endemic amphibians; early morning hikers have the best chance of spotting or hearing them. Swimming in the pool at the base of the falls is permitted and popular, though the water stays cool year-round. The trail's easy grade and clear signage make it accessible to most fitness levels, and it pairs naturally with a visit to Cape Hedo further north.
| Distance | 3.2km round trip (1.6km one way) |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1.5-2 hours round trip |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Trailhead | Car required; about 90 minutes from Naha; trailhead signed from Route 58 |
| Best season | November to May, avoiding the muddiest rainy-season stretches |
| Address | Hiji, Kunigami-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 905-1207 |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Yanbaru National Park, Kunigami Village
- Trail type
- Out and back
- Terrain
- Packed dirt forest path with a suspension bridge crossing and some tree-root sections; can be slick after rain
What to bring
- Trail shoes
- water and snacks
- insect repellent
- light rain layer
Location
Hiji, Kunigami-son, Kunigami-gun, Okinawa 905-1207
26.7489, 128.1830 View on map
Highlights
- 26-meter Hiji Falls and swimming pool
- Endemic Okinawa Rail and woodpecker habitat
- Suspension bridge river crossings
- Dense subtropical forest canopy
Frequently asked questions
Is swimming allowed at Hiji Falls?
Yes, swimming in the pool at the base of the falls is permitted, though the water is noticeably cold year-round.
Is the Hiji Falls Trail suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is rated easy with a gentle 120-meter elevation gain over 1.6km one way, though trail shoes are recommended since the path can be muddy after rain.