Nishizawa Valley offers one of Yamanashi’s most rewarding half-day hikes, a loop trail that follows a clear mountain river through pristine forest past a series of waterfalls, culminating in the Nanatsugama Godan-no-taki, a beautiful tiered cascade of pools and falls counted among Japan’s 100 most celebrated waterfalls. The valley is especially popular in autumn when the foliage peaks, and the well-maintained trail combines genuine natural beauty with a manageable half-day of walking suited to reasonably fit visitors.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Yamanashi City, Yamanashi |
| Hours | Daylight hours; trail seasonal (avoid winter snow/ice) |
| Admission | Free |
| Time needed | 3–4 hours for the loop trail |
| Best time | Late October–early November for autumn foliage |
What to See
- A loop trail past a series of waterfalls along a clear mountain river.
- The tiered Nanatsugama Godan-no-taki, a celebrated cascade.
- Pristine forest scenery, especially striking in autumn.
- A rewarding half-day hike suited to reasonably fit visitors.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Shosenkyo Gorge for more scenic nature.
- Pair with Yamanashi Wine & Katsunuma for relaxation afterward.
- Read our Yamanashi overview .
Getting There
- By train + bus: JR to Enzan Station, then a seasonal bus to the valley trailhead.
- By car: parking available at the trailhead, roughly 30 minutes from Enzan.
Tips
Wear proper hiking shoes and allow a good half-day, as the loop involves genuine trail terrain with some steep and potentially slippery sections near the waterfalls. Avoid the trail in winter when snow and ice make it dangerous, and check that the seasonal bus is running before relying on it to reach the trailhead.
