Nunobiki Falls (Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Nunobiki Falls is a group of waterfalls in a mountain stream near downtown Kobe's Chuo Ward, and is a scenic spot that has been written about in waka poetry and essays since ancient times. Located just behind Shin-Kobe Station, where the Shinkansen stops, its greatest appeal is that it allows visitors to enjoy the natural scenery in a short distance from the city. The waterfalls are made up of multiple tiers, and the appearance of the various large and small streams changes with the seasons. The surrounding area is home to the Nunobiki Herb Garden (with a ropeway) and walking trails, making it a popular spot for easy hiking and nature observation.

Highlights

• A group of waterfalls including Otaki and Metaki: The flow, sound and scenery vary depending on the level, and you can feel the negative ions around the basin. There are also plenty of photo spots.
• Promenade and observation point: The promenade is so quiet you'd never guess it was so close to the city, and from several observation decks you can enjoy views of the waterfall, Kobe city, and the harbor all at once.
• Seasonal expressions: Enjoy the different atmospheres of each season, from the fresh greenery of spring, the clear streams of summer, the autumn leaves of autumn, and the snow-covered scenery of winter.
• Nunobiki Herb Garden (take the ropeway): From the herb garden, you can look down upstream and enjoy a panoramic view of the waterfall and the city. The garden is also attractive for its walks and cafe.
• Literary and historical background: It also has historical value as a famous spot that appears in classical Japanese poetry and waka poetry.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: JR/Shinkansen "Shin-Kobe Station" or Kobe Municipal Subway "Shin-Kobe Station".
• Walking: It takes about 5-15 minutes to walk from Shin-Kobe Station to the entrance of the waterfall promenade (time required varies depending on the waterfall and observation deck you are visiting).
• Ropeway: Nunobiki Herb Garden - The ropeway offers easy access to the garden's views and upstream areas. The boarding point is close to Shin-Kobe Station.
• From Sannomiya: Take the subway from JR Sannomiya or Hankyu Sannomiya to Shin-Kobe (approximately 3-5 minutes), or you can walk for about 20-30 minutes.
• Access by car: Public transportation is recommended as there are limited public parking spaces nearby. The surrounding roads and parking lots can get crowded on weekends.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• A quick trip to see Ontaki Falls: Around 30 minutes (including round trip from Shin-Kobe Station)
• A leisurely stroll along the trails and waterfalls: 1-2 hours
• If you include the herb garden, observation deck, and sightseeing in the surrounding area: 2 to 4 hours

Nearby spots

• Nunobiki Herb Garden and Ropeway: Enjoy the herb garden, observation cafe, and seasonal flowers.
• Kitano Ijinkan-gai (Kitano-cho): A group of Western-style buildings in the foreign settlement, perfect for strolling and visiting cafes.
• Sannomiya/Motomachi area: Shopping, gourmet food, and tourist spots around the port.
• Ikuta Shrine: A historic shrine in the center of Kobe.
• Mount Rokko area: If you go a little further you can enjoy nature, night views, and hiking.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: The number of tourists increases on weekends, public holidays, during the autumn foliage season, and during Golden Week, so photo spots and promenades can get crowded. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays will allow for a more relaxed experience.
• Footing and clothing: The trail includes mountain paths and stairs, so wear comfortable walking shoes (trekking shoes or sneakers). Be especially careful in rainy weather and after rain as the trail can be slippery.
• Safety: Do not enter restricted areas or roped off areas around the waterfall. Falling rocks and rising water can be dangerous, so do not push yourself too hard.
• Manners: To protect the natural environment, please follow basic rules such as taking your trash with you, not damaging plants or the ground, and not causing a nuisance by shouting.
• Seasonal precautions: In summer, take precautions against heat and insects (insect repellent, drinks), and in winter, take precautions against the cold. In bad weather (typhoons, heavy rain), the promenade may be closed and the ropeway may be suspended, so check the official information in advance.

Nunobiki Falls is a natural spot that is easily accessible from central Kobe. You can enjoy the power of the waterfall and the view of the city at the same time, so be sure to add it to your sightseeing route.