Niko-fuchi Abyss

Niko-fuchi is a secluded waterfall basin located upstream of the Niyodo River, which flows through the center of Kochi Prefecture. The Niyodo River is a crystal-clear stream that has been selected multiple times by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism as one of the “Rivers with the Best Water Quality.” When sunlight shines on the water, it glows a brilliant emerald green, a beauty that has given birth to the term “Niyodo Blue.” Niko-fuchi has become a highly popular tourist spot as the location where this “Niyodo Blue” can be seen at its most beautiful.

How to Get to Niko-fuchi

A Secluded Area with Limited Transportation

Niko-fuchi is located in what is considered a secluded area near the center of Shikoku. Since bus services are infrequent and it takes more than 40 minutes to walk from the nearest bus stop, visiting by car is the most common method.

In the past, even after arriving near Niko-fuchi, there was limited parking space, and visitors had to descend using ropes to get closer to the basin. This caused traffic congestion and raised concerns about overtourism. However, thanks to the efforts of local people, parking lots and walking paths were established recently (specifically in February a few years ago), and the congestion seems to have eased significantly compared to before.

When looking at reviews of Niko-fuchi, some might say that physical strength is required to visit. However, that refers to how it was in the past; now that it has been well-maintained, you can reach the basin without much struggle.

Before entering the walking path, visitors are asked to drop a cooperation fee of about 100 yen per person into a box for maintenance and management. I felt deeply grateful that we are able to see this wonderful nature up close, thanks to the understanding and support of the local residents.

Nikobuchi Falls the day after heavy rain

Seeing “Niyodo Blue” Depends on the Weather

I had hoped to see the beautiful “Niyodo Blue,” but unfortunately, there was heavy rain the day before, and it was also raining on the day of my visit. I headed to Niko-fuchi, worrying that I might only be able to see muddy water.

In such cases, a live camera is available for Niko-fuchi, allowing you to check the color of the water in advance. However, at that time, the water volume was so immense that only white spray was visible on the screen.

Upon arrival, it wasn’t raining near Niko-fuchi, and the water color was not the brown I had feared; it had maintained its emerald green. However, as it had collected rainwater from the surrounding area, the water volume was high, and the cascading current was incredibly powerful. The water might have been even clearer if it hadn’t rained.

Local Cuisine of Kochi Prefecture

Katsuo no Tataki (Seared Bonito)

Although this was dinner at an inn located far from the sea, “Katsuo no Tataki” — a famous Kochi specialty where the surface of the fish is quickly seared — was served. I was surprised by how delicious it was.

Tosa Akaushi (Tosa Brown Cattle)

Tosa Akaushi is a brown-haired cattle breed raised mainly in the mountainous areas of Kochi Prefecture. It is a rare variety with only 300 to 400 head shipped annually. I traveled east from Niko-fuchi and was able to eat it at the “Sameura-so Lakeside Hotel” near the Sameura Dam. However, please note that the last order for lunch is at 13:30. It seems you can also enjoy it as a barbecue at “Michi-no-Eki Tosa Sameura” (a roadside rest area).

Salt-Grilled Ayu (Sweetfish)

When it comes to specialties unique to clear streams, it has to be Ayu (sweetfish). Many inns and restaurants serve it.

Yuzu Sorbet

Yuzu is also widely harvested in Kochi and is a famous local specialty. You can purchase yuzu products at retail stores such as “Michi-no-Eki Motoyama Sakura-ichi” (a roadside rest area featuring a farmers’ market) and enjoy them leisurely in the eat-in space.