As the sauna boom brought "togtononu" — a deeply relaxed, reset state — into everyday vocabulary, interest in wellness experiences that reconnect people with nature has continued to grow. Now, an ancient Japanese practice is stepping into the spotlight as the next evolution in that trend: waterfall bathing, or takigyo.
TAKIGO, a waterfall bathing activity run by Morikuru Co., Ltd. in Kanagawa Prefecture, is approaching its second anniversary since launching in April 2024. Taking place at Yūhi-no-taki Falls (23 m drop, 5 m wide) in Minami-Ashigara City, Kanagawa, the experience is accessible from central Tokyo in about 90 minutes — by train or by car — making it a realistic day-trip option.
Why Waterfall Bathing Is Gaining Attention
While the sauna trend introduced many people to the concept of resetting both body and mind, some are now seeking an even deeper connection with the natural world. Standing beneath a powerful waterfall and feeling its full force on the body offers a different kind of reset — a confrontation with raw nature that saunas simply can't replicate. TAKIGO positions itself as exactly that kind of experience.
What Makes TAKIGO Approachable
Despite the traditional image of waterfall bathing as a grueling ascetic practice, TAKIGO has been designed with accessibility in mind. Key features include:
- Beginner-friendly guidance — Experienced guides walk participants through breathing techniques and entry step by step. Most participants have no prior experience.
- Everything provided — White robes are available to borrow at no charge, and photo and video support is included during the session.
- Convenient access — A shuttle service is available from Shin-Matsuda Station on the Odakyu Line (advance notice required). Free parking is available for those arriving by car.
- Year-round availability — Sessions run in every season. Winter waterfall bathing, in particular, has earned high praise for the sense of accomplishment it brings.
Participants have described the experience as "casual enough to recommend to friends" and "fun and safe at my own pace" — a far cry from the austere image the practice has traditionally carried.
A Growing Community
Since its launch, TAKIGO has welcomed participants ranging in age from their 20s to 50s, drawing visitors from Kanagawa, Tokyo, Saitama, and Chiba. The activity has attracted solo participants, couples, groups, and international tourists alike.
Feedback has highlighted the communal dimension of the experience: "It was great to build team spirit and then go in together," said one participant. Others have noted its potential as a corporate retreat or team-building activity.
Experience Details
- Location: Yūhi-no-taki Falls, Minami-Ashigara City, Kanagawa Prefecture
- Access: Approximately 90 minutes from central Tokyo by train or car
- Duration: Approximately 2 hours
- Price: ¥7,500 per person (tax included); ¥6,000 per person for groups of 3 or more (tax included)
- Official site: https://www.moricrew.com/takigo
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takigo_moricrew/
