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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kanba Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture, and is known for its natural scenery, surrounded by a deep valley and lush virgin forest. It has long been a place of worship for locals, and the waterfall itself and the surrounding valley have been left in their natural state, attracting visitors with their changing scenery throughout the seasons. It is especially popular during the seasons of fresh greenery and autumn leaves, as a cool summer retreat, and when it freezes over in winter (depending on the weather). Wild Japanese macaques also live near the waterfall, making it an interesting place to observe nature.
Highlights
- Main waterfall: A dynamic flow that falls over a rock face. You can enjoy the whole view from the observation point in front of the waterfall.
- Walking trail and beautiful valley: The walking trail to the waterfall passes through a virgin forest, allowing you to get up close and personal with the moss-covered rocks and the murmuring of the clear stream.
- Wild monkeys: If you're lucky, you may see Japanese macaques around the walking trails (feeding is prohibited).
- Seasonal changes: The scenery changes throughout the year, with fresh greenery in spring, deep green and coolness in summer, autumn leaves, and frozen waterfalls in the harsh winter (size varies from year to year).
- Photo spots: Popular with photographers, with an observation space where you can take photos of the waterfall from the front and with the stream downstream included.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Mimasaka Katsuyama Station and stations around Katsuyama are often the closest. Public transportation may be infrequent depending on the route and season, so we recommend checking the timetable in advance.
- Bus/Taxi: The most common way to get to the waterfall entrance is by local bus or taxi from the station. However, as local buses run only a limited number of times, it is more convenient to use a taxi or rental car.
- By car: Accessible via the Chugoku Expressway or the Yonago Expressway. There are often parking lots (free or paid) near the waterfalls, and from there you can walk along the footpath to the falls.
- Please note: If you are using public transportation, please check the service information in advance as there are restrictions on the number of trains and the days they operate. It is convenient to search for the facility name (Kanba Falls/Maniwa City) on your navigation system.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Walking time from the waterfall entrance to the observation deck: Approximately 15-30 minutes (varies depending on walking speed and stops)
- Round trip + time spent in front of the waterfall and taking photos: Approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour
- If you plan to take a nature walk and leisurely visit the surrounding attractions, you should allow 1.5 to 2 hours or more.
Nearby spots
- Katsuyama Townscape Preservation District: An area where old townscapes and historical buildings remain, perfect for strolling.
- Yubara Onsen: A representative hot spring resort in Maniwa City. After viewing the waterfall, we recommend soaking in the hot springs.
- Hiruzen Plateau: A tourist destination accessible by car. Enjoy the scenery of ranches and plateaus, as well as seasonal flowers.
- Mount Nagi Hiking Trail: Enjoy trekking and views in the nearby mountain area.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: Parking lots and trails can get crowded on weekends, holidays, and during the autumn foliage season. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting on a weekday or early in the morning.
- Manners: Feeding wild animals (especially monkeys) is prohibited. Approaching or stimulating animals is dangerous and should be avoided from the perspective of nature conservation.
- Footing and clothing: The trail is slippery in places due to stones and roots. Wear comfortable walking shoes (such as trekking shoes) and take care when it rains, as the trail can be particularly slippery.
- Weather and seasons: After heavy rain, there is a risk of flooding and falling rocks, so pay close attention to weather information. In winter, access may be difficult due to ice and snow on the roads.
- Safety measures: There may be restricted areas or ropes set up near the waterfalls. Please follow instructions such as not entering inside the fences or forcing yourself too close.
- Take your trash home: To protect the environment, please be sure to take your trash home with you.
*Transportation times, parking fees and opening/closing times, and the operating status of facilities around the falls are subject to change. Please check official information or the local information center for the latest information before visiting.
