What other travelers are saying about Nabegadaki Falls, Oguni
Late June 2025. Need to pay 300 yen. Not a big place. Can walk below the waterfall. Spend about 30 minutes here. Spacious free parking. A small shop besides ticketing office. Walk a round trip behind the waterfall and cross the river. Five to ten minutes round trip, if you just want to walk and didn’t want to stay to take pictures.
Stunning location, apart from a steep decent the entire adventure is well paved and walking sticks are available at the entrance. You can descend into the waterfall area, the scenery is stunning and so picturesque. You can walk behind the waterfall but you may get dropped on. You can paddle your feet in the water at the base of the waterfall or I. The stream that follows. So many hidden beauty spots, even just up the path from the waterfall is a gentle stream with dragonflies dancing above. Well worth a visit and as 2 adults and one child we only paid ¥1200 which is £6. Little shop at the entrance and vending machines offer a choice of refreshments
A Serene Weekend Escape
Nestled in the peaceful countryside, Nabegataki Falls offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. I visited on a weekend, making the almost two-hour drive from Kumamoto City—a journey that, though a little long, felt like part of the adventure itself. The winding roads and scenic views along the way gradually melted away any lingering stress, setting the tone for what was to come.
Upon arriving, I was immediately taken in by the sense of calm that surrounded the falls. The sound of cascading water mixed gently with the occasional laughter of visitors, both locals and tourists alike, creating a soft, joyful background without overwhelming the tranquility. Despite being a weekend, it wasn't crowded, allowing plenty of quiet moments to just sit, breathe, and soak in the beauty.
The falls themselves are magical—you can even walk behind the curtain of water, feeling the cool mist on your skin. It’s an incredibly refreshing experience, almost like stepping into a hidden world. And with an entrance fee of just ¥300, it’s an accessible gem for anyone seeking a peaceful retreat into nature.
If you're looking for a spot to unwind and reconnect with nature in Kumamoto Prefecture, Nabegataki Falls is well worth the drive.
Unique waterfall where you can walk behind the fall. Short walk from the carpark. Not difficult walk.
Amazing waterfall. When we visited it was during the week so it wasn't too busy and we could get some good photos. The walk down is not difficult but has many stairs. It takes only about 5 mins to reach the falls from the car park.
I would highly recommend visiting!
Frequently Asked Questions
The walking path from the parking area requires approximately 15 to 20 minutes of moderate hiking through forest terrain, descending toward the river valley.
Autumn, typically in November, for vibrant foliage colors. High water periods following rain or snowmelt make the cascade more dramatic. Winter may offer occasional ice formations.
Appropriate footwear for hiking, as the walk includes elevation change and potentially slippery conditions near the water.
No. The modest scale and local character mean fewer crowds compared to major tourist waterfalls, offering quieter nature experiences.
Nearby attractions include Mount Aso (active volcano), Aso caldera grasslands, Kurokawa Onsen hot springs (approximately 20 to 30 minutes), and northern Kumamoto rural landscapes.
