ABOUT
About this spot
Niko-buchi, in the town of Ino in Kochi Prefecture, lies on a tributary of the Niyodo River, often called Japan's clearest stream, and is renowned as a holy site of "Niyodo Blue." Depending on the hour and the sunlight pouring down, the water surface changes dramatically from deep cobalt blue to vivid emerald green, overwhelming all who see it. Once considered so sacred that even locals kept away, it is also a power spot with a legend of a giant serpent living in its depths. Today, a gently sloping walking path leads from the parking lot to the plunge pool, making it far easier to reach than before. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Swimming, eating, and drinking are strictly prohibited, and the right way to enjoy the place is to savor the sound of the waterfall and the shimmer of the water in the stillness. It is a superb destination for a weekend drive with friends or a solo trip to feel the mystery of nature. You are sure to encounter a magical landscape that makes you forget everyday life.
Last updated March 28, 2026