Welcome to Shirataki Park

Hello there! This is “Gussan,” your SaruKuma travel writer.
Today I’m taking you to Itsuki Village in Kuma District, to a hidden gem called
Shirataki Park (白滝公園).

This is a spot where you can enjoy autumn foliage hunting in fall and river play in summer — completely free of charge.
It’s an ideal destination for a scenic drive, but let me get one thing out of the way first: there’s no actual waterfall here. (Yes, really!)
When you look up, you’ll see a massive limestone cliff towering 70 meters high and stretching 200 meters wide. Its dramatic, cascading appearance resembles a waterfall frozen in stone — and that’s exactly how the park got its name, “Shirataki” (White Waterfall).
From late October, the cliff is illuminated at night, making this one of the most popular autumn-leaf-viewing spots in the area.

There’s also a limestone cave inside the park, though it was unfortunately closed during my visit.

Shirataki Park has parking near the main entrance, plus an additional public lot tucked behind the vending machines down the slope.
Best of all — parking is completely free.
Right next to the parking area you’ll find a drinking fountain and restrooms.
They’re kept spotlessly clean and even include a diaper-changing station — a thoughtful touch for visiting families.
Once inside the park, there’s another drinking fountain available.
A covered gazebo offers a wonderful spot to relax and soak in the scenery at your own pace.
Surrounded by peaceful, rolling mountains, Shirataki Park feels like a true escape into nature.
My nature-loving daughter was thrilled the moment we arrived and immediately set off exploring.
There are restrooms inside the park, too.
These are slightly older Japanese-style (squat) toilets, so I’d suggest using the ones near the entrance first if you prefer Western-style facilities.
As you walk further in…
…you’ll be greeted by the Kawabe River — ranked Japan’s #1 clearest river — sparkling in stunning emerald green.
The water is shallow and easy to keep an eye on the kids, making it perfect for splashing around and water play.
Just look at this!
The water is so transparent you could stare at it forever.
My daughter even climbed onto a giant piece of driftwood, pretending to be the captain of her very own ship.
A picturesque suspension bridge crosses high above the river.
Crossing it feels wonderfully adventurous and gives you a real sense of escaping everyday life.
It doesn’t sway much, so it’s not scary at all, and the views from the bridge are absolutely refreshing.
Just be sure to hold little ones’ hands as you cross.
Right next to the river, there’s even a tap where you can rinse off sandy feet or splash-soaked clothes. (How thoughtful!)
Whether you come for lush green scenery, river play, or autumn-leaf viewing, Shirataki Park has something for everyone.
The upcoming light-up season is sure to draw plenty of visitors as well.
The exact light-up dates vary each year, so it’s best to call ahead to check before visiting.
Why not make it part of your next scenic drive through Kumamoto?

[Closed] CAFE Minamoto (Itsuki Village, Kuma District) — A popular lunch spot featuring local ingredients and game meat

Itsukigen Park (Itsuki Village, Kuma District) — A cheerful park with big play equipment and Japan’s #1 clear river

Historia Terrace Itsukidani Kodomokan (Itsuki Village, Kuma District) — A free indoor facility packed with wooden toys ☆彡

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is based on the time of the visit. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please confirm before visiting.