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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

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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 and light meals available at Ontaki Chaya.
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.
NOTE

💡 Good to Know ①The basin at Ontaki has a 10-tatami-sized pothole, legendarily connected to a dragon palace ③A scenic spot featured in Heian period literature including 'The Tales of Ise,' beloved by poets like Ariwara no Yukihira and Fujiwara no Teika ④An urban oasis offering an otherworldly escape, unbelievably close to Shin-Kobe Station

Check Official Info

Please check official site for hours, fees, etc.

View Official Info

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it suitable for beginners? How long does it take to reach the falls?
The well-maintained trail from Shin-Kobe Station to Ontaki takes about 15 minutes and is suitable for beginners. However, comfortable walking shoes are essential due to stairs and slopes. Visiting all four falls takes about 1 hour round trip.
Can I visit on a rainy day? When is the best time to visit?
Light rain is fine, but be cautious during heavy rain or immediately after as trails can be slippery. However, post-rain visits offer spectacular water flow. Best seasons are May-June for fresh greenery and November for autumn colors. Morning visits provide better lighting for photos.
What is Ontaki Chaya? What can I eat there?
A historic teahouse overlooking Ontaki Falls, established in 1915 (celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2014). Records show a teahouse existed here as early as 1833. Enjoy beer, oden, udon, and light meals while experiencing the waterfall's sound, stream's murmur, and negative ions throughout your body. Open weekdays 11:00-17:00, weekends/holidays 10:00-17:00, closed Thursdays.
Should I continue to Ichigahara? How long does it take?
Highly recommended if you have time and energy! It's another 30-40 minutes uphill from Ontaki to Ichigahara, where you'll find shaded rest areas and teahouses selling snacks. Great for those wanting a proper hike. For descent, take the Nunobiki Herb Garden ropeway for an easy ride down.
When does it get crowded? I want to visit during quieter times.
Weekends and holidays between 10:00-14:00 are particularly crowded. For quieter visits, aim for weekday early mornings (before 8:00) or after 15:00. However, it gets dark early, so start descending by 16:00 at the latest. November (autumn foliage season) is crowded even on weekdays.

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