Nunobiki Falls are a set of several waterfalls in the mountains above Kobe, about a 20 to 30 minute walk from Shin-Kobe Station.

They are one of the most famous waterfalls in Japan and also one of the places that can be reached on foot directly from the city centre, which is quite unusual.

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Is Nunobiki Falls worth a visit?

Short answer: yes, if you like short easy hikes and nature; but it's not a place for a day trip.

✅ Yes, if:

• you want to see nature without having to leave the city
• you plan to visit the Herb Gardens or the Shin-Kobe area
• you like shorter walks and sightseeing

❌ More likely no, if:

• you don't enjoy walking uphill
• you have very limited time in Kobe

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What to expect?

Nunobiki Falls consists of several waterfalls scattered along a mountain trail. The most famous is Ontaki, the highest of the falls (43 metres), which is reached by a well-marked path.

The path to the falls leads through the forest and is pleasant even on hot days, as much of the trail is in the shade. It is not a strenuous hike, but expect a slight incline, steps and uneven surfaces.

The visit is very often combined with a cable car to Nunobiki Herb Gardens, as the routes build on each other.

If you walk from the botanical gardens, you can extend your walk slightly past the pretty dam.

Best time to visit

The waterfalls are beautiful all year round.

After the rains, there is usually more water and the waterfalls look more impressive, and in summer it is more pleasant than in the city due to the shade and lower temperature.

The calmest time is in the morning.

How much time to set aside?

• 45-60 minutes: shorter walk to the main waterfall and back
• 1.5-2 hours: a more leisurely pace or a combination with the Herb Gardens

Practical tips:

• the path is well signposted but rocky in places, sturdier shoes are advisable
• the trail can be slippery after rain
• if you plan to include Herb Gardens, it is ideal to take the cable car up to the top, walk through Herbal Gardens and continue past the waterfalls to the town centre

How to get there

The starting point is Shin-Kobe station (Shinkansen and subway). From here, there is a signposted path that starts just a few minutes' walk from the station.

You must first pass through the underpass under the station, which is marked in blue and says "Nunabiki Falls".

For details on transport around the city, see the chapter Transport in Kobe.

Mobile data is very useful for navigation and finding connections in Japan - it's handy to get an eSIM for Japan that works as soon as you land.

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