The Beauty of Gō-no-Taki Waterfall
A Scenic Waterfall Along the Naka River
Gō-no-Taki lies in the Kamodani area of Anan City, near the middle reaches of the Naka River. The surrounding landscape features clear river water, green hills, and several traditional low-water crossings known as chinkabashi. These bridges are designed to allow floodwater to pass over them, and they form a distinctive part of the region’s riverside scenery.
The waterfall changes with the seasons. During the rainy summer months, increased rainfall brings a stronger flow, creating a more powerful and impressive cascade. In winter, the water volume tends to decrease, revealing a quieter and more delicate side of the falls.
The Story Behind Its Name
The name Gō-no-Taki comes from the resemblance between the waterfall’s flowing water and a horse’s tail. The name is sometimes confused with Ushio-no-Taki, written with characters that look similar in Japanese. This unusual name adds a little local character to the experience of visiting the falls.
Recognized for Its Natural Beauty
Gō-no-Taki has been selected for the Tokushima Waterways: 50 Scenic Selections, a collection highlighting notable waterside landscapes in the prefecture. Here, the clear waters of the Naka River and the surrounding greenery combine to create a peaceful setting for nature lovers and those who enjoy walking outdoors.
Fukase Hachiman Shrine
A Historic Shrine Where Waterfall and Worship Come Together
Fukase Hachiman Shrine stands in Fukase-cho, Anan City, close to Gō-no-Taki Waterfall. The waterfall is a defining feature of the shrine grounds, giving the site a distinctive atmosphere in which natural scenery and religious tradition are closely connected.
A Shrine with Centuries of History
The exact founding date of Fukase Hachiman Shrine is unknown, although tradition places its establishment in the Tenmon era, from 1532 to 1555. During the Sengoku period, its name was changed to Hachiman Shrine.
The shrine originally stood beside the Naka River. Following a major flood in 1892, it was relocated to its present site after the original location suffered severe water damage. Its history reflects the challenges faced by communities living alongside a powerful river and their efforts to preserve their places of worship.
The Sacred Waterfall
Gō-no-Taki is regarded as the sacred object of worship at Fukase Hachiman Shrine, where the water deity Mihayame-no-Mikoto is enshrined. The waterfall’s clear, flowing water has long been treated with reverence, and it remains an important part of the area’s spiritual identity.
Visitors can pause to appreciate the waterfall before or after paying their respects at the shrine. The combination of rushing water, surrounding vegetation, and sacred tradition creates a reflective atmosphere that offers a different kind of sightseeing experience from Japan’s more famous temples and shrines.
Why Visit Gō-no-Taki and Fukase Hachiman Shrine?
Nature and Spiritual Heritage in One Place
The waterfall and shrine complement one another, bringing together the natural beauty of the Naka River valley and the religious traditions of Anan. In summer, the waterfall’s fuller flow creates a dramatic scene, while its quieter winter appearance offers a more subdued charm.
Fukase Hachiman Shrine adds historical depth to the visit. Its relocation following the great flood of 1892 and its distinctive tradition of worshipping the waterfall reveal how closely local beliefs are tied to the surrounding landscape.
A Relaxing Stop on an Anan Road Trip
Both attractions are accessible by car and can be included in a sightseeing trip around Anan City. The drive along the Naka River is itself part of the appeal, with views of the river and the green countryside providing a scenic introduction to this part of Tokushima Prefecture.
For travelers interested in discovering the quieter side of Shikoku, Gō-no-Taki and Fukase Hachiman Shrine offer a rewarding stop where nature, history, and local faith can be experienced together.
Access to Gō-no-Taki Waterfall
From Tokushima Expressway’s Tokushima Interchange, the journey by car takes approximately 50 minutes. From JR Anan Station, the drive takes around 20 minutes.
Visitors can explore the waterfall and shrine together, enjoying the surrounding scenery while learning about the area’s history and spiritual traditions. Water levels may vary with rainfall, so the appearance of the falls can differ depending on when you visit.