Why Visit
Nunobiki Falls consists of four waterfalls: Ontaki (Male Falls), Meotodaki (Couple Falls), Tsuzumidaki (Drum Falls), and Medaki (Female Falls). The 43-meter Ontaki is particularly impressive. Despite being within walking distance of a Shinkansen station, it offers a secluded world surrounded by lush greenery. Poets like Ariwara no Yukihira and Ki no Tsurayuki once composed waka poems about its beauty, and it continues to enchant visitors today. After exploring the falls, take a break at the atmospheric 'Ontaki Chaya' teahouse. Continue further to reach 'Ichigahara,' a beloved rest spot for hikers.
One of Japan's Three Sacred Falls
Ranked alongside Nachi Falls and Kegon Falls
Walking Distance from Station
About 15 minutes from Shin-Kobe Station, excellent accessibility
Ontaki Chaya Teahouse
Atmospheric teahouse near Ontaki. Enjoy beer and light meals
Ichigahara
Popular rest spot among hikers. Relax in the shade
Photography Guide
✨ Best Shots
- • Capture the full view of Ontaki from the front
- • Compose with green ferns and the falls
- • Use slow shutter for water spray at the basin
- • Look up from the wooden bridge on the trail
- • Atmospheric exterior of Ontaki Chaya
🌅 Best Timing
- • Fresh green season: May-June
- • Autumn foliage: November
- • After rain (abundant water flow)
- • Morning hours (better lighting)
💡 When using a tripod, be mindful not to block other visitors. After enjoying beer at Ontaki Chaya, pace yourself on the trail.
Essentials
- Opening Hours
- Open 24 hours (daytime visit recommended). Ontaki Chaya: approx. 10:00-16:00 (irregular holidays)
- cost
- Free admission. Beer from ¥500 at Ontaki Chaya, light meals available.
- Best Time
- Best during fresh green season (May-June) and autumn foliage (November). After rain, the water flow is impressive. For trips to Ichigahara, start in the morning.
- Suggested Duration
- About 3 hours
- Access
- About 15 minutes walk from Shin-Kobe Station. Take the trail from the north side trailhead. Popular route: Ontaki → Ontaki Chaya → Ichigahara. Nunobiki Herb Garden ropeway available for descent.
- Accessibility
- Mountain trail requires comfortable walking shoes. Many stairs and slopes make wheelchair access difficult. For Ichigahara, bring proper hiking gear.










