Tohoku, Aomori
Oirase Stream So much to see on the way to the waterfalls
I leaned in to examine the moss on a rock, listening to the water along the shaded trail. There was more to my early-summer trip than the big waterfalls.
On this early-summer walk, I leaned in to look at the moss and listened to the stream as I went. I still remember taking my time instead of hurrying to my destination.
SummerFresh greenery in June
I stopped for the moss on my way to the waterfall
After getting out of the car, I started walking along the stream, and soon I could hear water through the trees. I'd been looking forward to seeing a big waterfall, but there was a stream right beside the path, too. Watching the water find its way around the rocks slowed my own pace right down.
There was something on that rock that looked soft and fluffy. I thought it might be a leaf, but when I got closer, the rock was completely covered in moss. I put my hands on my knees and leaned in. I could make out tiny leaves layered over one another. It looked completely different up close.
I told my driving friend I was off to see the stream and the waterfall. If she knew how long I'd spent looking at the moss, she'd probably laugh and say, 'Another detour?' But when I thought about how I'd only spotted it because I was walking, I didn't want to leave just yet.
A little farther along, the speed and sound of the water changed. In some places it narrowed between the rocks; in others, it widened and flowed more gently. Watching it, I realized the water wasn't moving at the same pace all the way along.
I walked along the shaded path and stopped again at another rock that caught my eye. At first, I thought the path was just a way to reach my destination, but there was so much I wanted to see along the way. I'm glad I didn't put myself on a tight schedule. Making this a day for walking was the right choice.
As I headed back, I found myself remembering not just the waterfall's size, but that little patch of moss, too. I wonder if I'll find the same rock next time. I wanted to tell my friend about more than just the famous sights.
The story sections are fiction inspired by this location. For accurate information, please consult official tourism and information websites.
Local specialty
Towada Barayaki
You can also enjoy Towada Barayaki in downtown Towada. As I started thinking about what to eat after walking along the stream, I found myself wanting to explore a little more of Towada.
Highlights
The walking trail along the stream
You can enjoy Oirase Stream from the path that follows the water. Watching it wind around the rocks slowed my own pace, too.
Early-summer forest and moss-covered rocks
The trees that put out buds in spring fill out with leaves by summer. I love taking in the whole landscape, but I found myself drawn to the little patches of moss on the rocks, too.
Driving and walking routes
The road beside Oirase Stream
- Driving route
- National Route 102 (Towada Road)
- Walking route
- Walking path along the stream
Drive the Towada Road, then explore the riverside path on foot. I found myself wanting to stop and look at the moss on the rocks. I also started to love exploring on foot.
According to the Ministry of the Environment, you can drive along National Route 102 and explore on foot along the path beside the stream. Follow the stream on the map and choose a stretch you'd like to walk.
More Spot Guides
If you enjoyed this story, you might like these places too. I've gone back to each of them in different seasons, again and again.
