Join local residents hiking up a trail in northern Kobe to visit Nunobiki Falls. The waterfalls are actually a set of four main cascades surrounded by trees, making the trek from Shin-Kobe Station a pleasant walk through shaded woodland in a quiet setting with fresh, cool air.

Learn the Japanese names of the falls as you hike upward: Ontaki, Tsutsumigadaki, Mentaki and Meotodaki. Mentaki is closest to the Shin-Kobe Station while Ontaki is the widest and tallest, at 141 feet (43 meters). Continue on to Tsutsumigadaki for interesting photographs of its more vigorous gushing flow.

The trail has handrails in many sections and is relatively easy, with steeper sections at the upper parts. Note that the path includes some stone steps, especially to the two highest sections, so it is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.

As you hike up, take the opportunity to look and listen for wildlife in the forest and catch glimpses of the city through openings in the trees.

Enjoy a different view of the falls from above the trees. Ride the Shin-Kobe Ropeway up the southern exposure of Mount Rokko and the extended Rokko chain. This choice is particularly refreshing during hot and humid summer days. As you ascend, look for the Nunobiki Falls on your right. Just beyond the falls, see the large Nunobiki Herb Garden.

If you want to get closer to the garden or the falls, get off at the Middle Station access point and follow the hiking trail up or down. This trail continues east of the falls to the Miharashi Observatory, a popular spot for viewing the city from above.

Unlike many picturesque waterfalls elsewhere in the world, Nunobiki Falls is very close to the city, making it easy to access even during a short stay. Get to the base of the hiking trail by traveling to Shin-Kobe station, about 1 mile (1.7 kilometers) north of the center of Kobe.

Hiking on the trail is free the path is open at all times. Purchase tickets for the ropeway and gain access near the station.