Just a thirty-minute drive from the centre of Tohoku’s busy metropolis, Sendai City, lies a natural oasis called Akiu. The area boasts natural hot springs, farm-to-table eateries, a winery, hiking, cycling, local crafts, shrines—you name it.  Akiu is the ultimate countryside escape. It even boasts one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls, Akiu Otaki Falls.

Around a twenty–minute drive from the Akiu Hot Springs village, you will find a small roadside market next to a sizeable torii gate. Walking through the gate is almost like entering another world. A beautiful old shrine stands within a forest of tall pine trees. Walk through the forest down some stairs and you will find yourself standing on a platform overlooking the incredible Akiu Otaki Falls, plummeting fifty-five metres down into the pristine river below. If you’re feeling adventurous, a short hike down some slippery stairs (tread carefully!) will take you to the base of the waterfall. Alternatively, you might prefer to relax in the on-site teahouse which serves up hot tea, coffee, and a selection of vegetarian-friendly Japanese snacks and desserts.

Although enjoyable to visit during any season, autumn is by far the most scenic time of year at Akiu Otaki Falls. The surrounding mountains are covered in a fiery carpet of yellow, gold and tinges of red (typically peaking late October to early November).

Nature lovers are recommended to complement their trip with a stop at some of the many other scenic spots in the Akiu area, such as Rairaikyo Gorge, Futakuchi Canyon, and Banjiiwa Rock. Whilst the area is accessible by public transport, it is recommend to visit by car, allowing you to enjoy the countryside at your own pace and make new discoveries along the way.