The river that flows past Ogashira shrines is called Kebo river. This is where you find the Imose falls. There are two waterfalls that are part of this river. First is the Mendaki falls. The waterfall is fifty meters tall and is a very slender and thin waterfall. It is often referred to as the female falls. The Mendaki falls can be seen from the shrine, there is no laid-out path all the way up to the falls, but there is a slightly trotted down area in the foliage leading towards the waterfall. Before leaving the Mendaki falls, there is an optional area a bit uphill. Those that make their way up that hill will be treated to a nice view of the second waterfall. Further upstream there is another waterfall. Known as the Ondaki falls, also referred to as the male falls. This waterfall is only thirty meters tall, but in stark contrast to the Mendaki falls, it is more akin to a roaring torrent than a slender waterfall. At the bottom of the waterfalls, there is a shallow area. It is quite popular among families. The water is shallow enough for children to wade in the water, and the surrounding area is ideal for picnics. During the summer it is especially popular among families. However, visiting during the fall is also recommended, then you get to see the waterfalls accompanied by beautiful fall colours. If you happen to be quite energetic when you visit the Imose falls you can make more out of this wonderful afternoon hike. There is a hiking trail in the mountain behind the shrine, and if you are up to it taking this little hike will lead you to the ruins of a local castle. Shrine, waterfalls and optional castle ruins. It doesn’t get better than that. This is a kind of off the beaten path tourist attraction, more known to the locals than the tourists. It is unlikely that you will run into crowds of tourists. Which makes the experience of going there quite special and somewhat unique.

Photograph provided by Hiroshima Prefecture