City Hiking: Nunobiki Falls in the Heart of Kobe

Central Kobe seen from Kobe Port Tower. The Rokkō Mountain Range is visible in the distance.

Weathercock House, formerly a mansion for Western merchants, is nestled against the Rokkō foothills.

The Rokkō Mountain Range looms behind Shin-Kobe Station.

A passageway under the station will lead you to this sign.

Isago Bridge marks the start of the track.

The steps to the right are the quickest way to reach Ontaki.

It’s hard to believe Mentaki is only five minutes from the station.

The first lookout. Sit back and enjoy the sounds of the waterfall.

Ontaki (top) and the twin Meotodaki falls.

Viewing the majestic Ontaki amid the spray.

The second lookout.

A Quintessentially Kobe View.

Patrons at the Ontaki teahouse, established in 1915, may be seen sipping on a beer while enjoying the view of the waterfall.

Nothing beats escaping from the hustle and bustle of the city to enjoy a coffee while listening to the sounds of the waterfall.

The Gohonmatsu Kakuredaki, or “hidden falls,” appear only when the reservoir level is high enough to open up the dam’s spillway.

Nunobiki Dam.

The walking trail continues well beyond the Nunobiki reservoir and is good for bird spotting.