Akame 48 Falls | Mie

The walk to Akame 48 Falls is a beautiful walk on a narrow trail through Murō-Akame-Aoyama Quasi-National Park in Mie, Japan. In addition to the falls, there are a few temples at the edge of The Forest of Ninja, and the Japanese Salamander Center with aquarium displays and information on the giant salamander that lives in the river. Unfortunately I didn't see any in the wild this morning.

The surrounding area is the birthplace of Ninjitsu, and the rugged terrain was an area where many practiced. The name "Akame" means "red eyes," given after a 7th century shaman saw a god on a red eyed bull appear while meditating under one of the waterfalls. At first were called 49 Falls, related to the Buddhist paradise of Miraku where there are 49 places. After the Kamakura Period (1185-1333) the name was changed to 48 Falls. Apparently "48" is closer in meaning to "many," not that there are literally 48 waterfalls. I might have to go back and count.

The falls are in a national park and access is limited to set opening hours, however when I went in late November it was possible to purchase tickets and enter a few minutes before the stated 8:30 opening time.

https://youtu.be/S__9u1CJFQ8