Mariyudu Falls, a representative waterfall of Iriomote Island, is located in the middle stream of Urauchi River and is a majestic two-stage waterfall of 20m wide and 16m high.
The name of the waterfall, “Mariyudu,” means “circular stagnation,” and was originally the name of the waterfall basin, but later became the name of the waterfall itself.
It has been selected as one of the 100 best waterfalls in Japan, and is surrounded by a natural recreation forest. Around the waterfall, there are many tree ferns, and the natural scenery is wonderful.
Urauchi River has a long brackish water area that reaches just below the waterfall, and is inhabited by more than 400 kinds of fish.
There are some rare fishes inhabiting only in Iriomote Island, among which are Urauchi snappers, shimizushimai saxifrage, Yokoshimai saxifrage, false saxifrage, and kawabora.
The oval-shaped waterfall basin, 130 m long and 80 m short, is also home to eels, tenaga shrimps, and carp, among others.
To access the falls, first take a boat to Gunkan Iwa, and then walk 30 minutes, or 1.5 km, to get there.
There is a certain viewing platform in the middle of the trail where visitors can enjoy the beauty of the falls.
Tourists visiting the waterfall can see the nature around the waterfall and the fish living in the waterfall basin, and enjoy the great nature.