The water that falls at Shiraito has spent a long time underground. Rain and snowmelt seep into the porous volcanic rock of Mount Fuji, travel through the layers for years, and emerge from a cliff face southwest of the mountain as hundreds of thin streams, pouring over a curved wall about twenty metres high and some one hundred and fifty metres wide. The name means white threads, and the effect is just that: a curtain of silvery strands falling into a clear pool, with the Fuji-ko pilgrims once performing purification rituals here. The falls are part of the Fujisan World Heritage Site, and the neighbouring Otodome falls, a single powerful cascade, roar a short walk away.
The setting is lush and green, with moss, ferns and trees around the falls, and the water is cold and clear even in summer. A stairway leads down to the basin, where viewing platforms give the best perspective. On clear days, Fuji is visible above the falls as you walk down toward them. The surrounding area is part of the Asagiri plateau, with pasture, farms and forest.
The roads around Shiraito are pleasant and gentle, with Route 139 and Route 414 linking the falls to Fujinomiya and the Fuji Five Lakes. The riding is relaxed rather than exciting, with smooth surfaces, light traffic and views of the volcano. On weekends and holidays, parking at the falls can be busy, but there is space for bikes. The Tanuki lake, a short ride away, reflects Fuji on still mornings, and around certain dates in spring and late summer the sun rises exactly over the summit, known as Diamond Fuji, attracting crowds of photographers.
Fujinomiya, eleven kilometres away, is the sensible place to refuel, and Fuji city, further south, is a larger industrial town. Near the falls, small shops sell grilled trout, local sweets and souvenirs. The climate is mild, with hot summers and cool winters, and snow is possible on the plateau. Early morning is the best time to visit, before the crowds and while Fuji is still clear of clouds.