nunobiki-falls

Nunobiki Falls

A mystical waterfall just 15 minutes walk from Shin-Kobe Station. Selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls, it has been beloved by poets since the Heian period.

Nunobiki Falls

GALLERY

[object Object] main
[object Object] sub 1
[object Object] sub 2
[object Object] detail
[object Object] detail

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.

Nearby Spots

We present captivating tourist attractions in the surrounding area.

Nunobiki Falls

Nunobiki Falls

A mystical waterfall just 15 minutes walk from Shin-Kobe Station. Selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls, it has been beloved by poets since the Heian period.

Distance: 0.0 kmWalk: About 0 min
Nature
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway

Japan's largest herb garden at 400m elevation, 5 min walk from Shin-Kobe Station and 10 min ropeway ride. Features about 200 species and 75,000 plants blooming seasonally across 12 themed gardens. Observatory plaza offers panoramic views of Kobe city and sea, with fantastic illuminated night views. A garden resort experience.

Distance: 0.6 kmWalk: About 9 min
NaturePhotography
Kitano Ijinkan District

Kitano Ijinkan District

Historic district lined with exotic Western-style houses

Distance: 1.0 kmWalk: About 15 min
HistoryPhotography
KOBE KITANO NOSTA

KOBE KITANO NOSTA

A complex facility renovated from the former Kitano Elementary School (over 90 years old)

Distance: 1.7 kmWalk: About 26 min
GourmetPhotography
Ikuta Shrine

Ikuta Shrine

A historic shrine that gave Kobe its name. Known for matchmaking blessings, its lush grounds provide a peaceful retreat in the city center. The beautiful vermillion gate makes it Kobe's premier power spot.

Distance: 1.7 kmWalk: About 26 min
HistoryCulture
Kobe Kitano Terrace

Kobe Kitano Terrace

A restaurant operated by Kobe Kitano Hotel. Savor exquisite French courses by Chef Hiroshi Yamaguchi, renowned for 'the world’s best breakfast,' in a glass-enclosed space overlooking Kobe’s cityscape. From breakfast to dinner, indulge in a blissful gourmet experience.

Distance: 1.9 kmWalk: About 28 min
Gourmet

Featured Events in Kobe

Highlighted events taking place in Kobe