Background

Nunobiki Falls: Kobe's Serene Cascade

Discover Kobe's natural sanctuary: a collection of stunning waterfalls, celebrated in art and easily accessible from the heart of the city.

4.4

Escape the urban bustle of Kobe at Nunobiki Falls, a collection of four stunning waterfalls a short hike from Shin-Kobe Station. Celebrated in art and literature for centuries, these 'divine falls' offer a refreshing natural retreat with accessible hiking trails and panoramic city views.

A brief summary to Nunobiki Falls (Ontaki / Meotodaki)

  • Fukiaicho, Kobe, Nunobikiyama Fukiaicho, Chuo Ward, Hyogo, 651-0058, JP
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the hike to the falls, as the path can be steep in some areas.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens for panoramic views and seasonal flowers.
  • Visit in the morning or early afternoon for the best sunlight on the falls.
  • Check out the historical Nunobiki Reservoir, Japan's first concrete gravity dam, located near the falls.
  • Consider purchasing a Kobe Travel Smart Passport for free entry to many attractions in the city, including the Herb Gardens.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Shin-Kobe Station, follow the signs for Nunobiki Falls. The well-marked path leads you on a 10- to 15-minute hike through a paved promenade. You'll pass Mentaki Falls, Tsutsumigadaki Falls, Meotodaki Falls, and finally reach Ontaki Falls. The trail is free to access.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Kobe Municipal Subway to Shin-Kobe Station. From there, follow the walking directions to Nunobiki Falls. Subway fare from Sannomiya Station to Shin-Kobe Station is approximately ¥210.

  • Ropeway

    From Shin-Kobe Station, walk 5 minutes to the Shin-Kobe Ropeway station. Take the ropeway to the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens. From the Herb Gardens, follow the hiking trail down to Nunobiki Falls. Ropeway tickets cost ¥1,800 for a round trip or ¥1,400 for a one-way trip for adults. An entrance fee of ¥200 is required to explore the sections of the Herb Garden if you hike.

Unlock the Best of Nunobiki Falls (Ontaki / Meotodaki)

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Nunobiki Falls (Ontaki / Meotodaki)

Nunobiki Falls, a collection of four waterfalls nestled near downtown Kobe, has captivated visitors and artists for centuries. Considered one of Japan's greatest 'divine falls,' alongside Kegon Falls and Nachi Falls, Nunobiki offers a serene escape into nature with historical and cultural significance. The falls are comprised of Ontaki, Mentaki, Tsutsumigadaki, and Meotodaki, each offering its own unique charm. The most famous and tallest of the four, Ontaki Falls, plunges an impressive 43 meters, creating a mesmerizing spectacle and soothing sounds. The name 'Nunobiki,' meaning 'pulled cloth,' is inspired by the way the water cascades down the rocks like a white ribbon. Meotodaki, also known as the 'husband and wife waterfall,' features twin streams that flow in parallel. The falls have been a popular subject in Japanese art and literature, inspiring poets and artists throughout history. Numerous aristocrats and poets have visited the falls since the Heian period, leaving behind famous poems carved into stone monuments. The area's rich history and natural beauty have made it a beloved destination for both locals and tourists. Easily accessible from Shin-Kobe Station, the falls are a short 10- to 15-minute hike away. The well-maintained trails cater to all levels of hikers, providing a peaceful retreat from the city. For those seeking a more scenic route, the Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway offers a breathtaking aerial view of the falls and surrounding Rokko Mountain range. The ropeway leads to the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, where visitors can explore themed gardens, enjoy herb-infused cuisine, and take in panoramic views of Kobe and Osaka Bay.

Popular Experiences near Nunobiki Falls (Ontaki / Meotodaki)

Popular Hotels near Nunobiki Falls (Ontaki / Meotodaki)

Select Currency