Current date: 2025-12-29 (JST)
Nabegataki Falls is not one of Japan’s largest or tallest waterfalls. Instead, its appeal is more subtle. Located in Oguni Town, Kumamoto Prefecture, this wide, curtain-like cascade offers a rare opportunity: the chance to walk behind the sheet of falling water. The space behind the falls is a shallow cavern, created by the erosion of a softer layer of rock beneath a harder, lava-formed shelf. This geological feature allows you to experience the waterfall from a unique perspective, feeling the mist and hearing the constant roar of the water from inside.
Who Should Visit Nabegataki Falls?
This location is ideal for travelers who appreciate natural scenery and unique geological formations. It is particularly well-suited for photographers, as the morning light often creates beautiful light rays filtering through the trees and water. Families and casual walkers will also find the short trail manageable.
However, this place may not be suitable for everyone. The path from the parking lot involves a steep staircase of over 100 steps. Individuals with mobility issues or those who cannot handle uneven, often slippery terrain will find access difficult. There are no wheelchair-accessible paths to the waterfall basin.
How to Get to Nabegataki Falls
Accessing Nabegataki Falls requires a car, as there is no direct public transportation to the site. The nearest major transportation hubs are in Aso or Kurokawa Onsen.
| Starting Point | Travel Time (by Car) |
| Kurokawa Onsen | Approx. 20 minutes |
| Aso Station | Approx. 50 minutes |
| Kumamoto Airport | Approx. 1.5 hours |
| Hita IC (Expressway) | Approx. 1 hour |
From the parking lot, it is a short but steep 3-minute walk down a staircase to reach the waterfall basin.
Costs & Fees: The Reservation System
Visiting Nabegataki Falls requires an online reservation in advance. This system was implemented to manage crowds and preserve the natural environment. Walk-up tickets are not guaranteed and may not be available, especially during peak seasons.
| Item | Cost (JPY) |
| Adult (High School+) | ¥300 |
| Child (Elementary/Jr. High) | ¥150 |
| Preschooler & Younger | Free |
| Parking | Free |
Booking: Reservations must be made through the official Webket ticketing site. You can book on the day of your visit if slots are available. Cancellations are possible up to three days before the reserved date.
Best Time to Visit
The experience at Nabegataki Falls changes dramatically with the seasons.
•Spring (Late March – April): This is a popular time due to the limited-period nighttime illuminations, which create a completely different, almost magical atmosphere. Expect significant crowds during this event.
•Summer (June – August): The lush greenery and cool mist from the waterfall provide a refreshing escape from the heat. Early mornings are best, as the angle of the sun can create stunning light rays (known as komorebi).
•Autumn (October – November): The surrounding trees turn color, framing the waterfall in warm autumn hues.
•Winter (December – February): In cold weather, parts of the waterfall can freeze, forming large icicles and a stark, beautiful landscape. However, the path can be even more slippery.
To avoid crowds, visit on a weekday morning. The park opens at 9:00 AM, and arriving early gives you the best chance to experience the falls in relative quiet.
Things to Know Before You Go
•Footwear is Critical: The area behind the waterfall and the path leading to it are constantly wet and slippery. Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes with good grip. Do not wear sandals or heels.
•Check for Closures: The park may close temporarily due to heavy rain, high river levels, or typhoons. Always check the official Oguni Town website for the latest status before you drive there.
•Limited Accessibility: As mentioned, the steep staircase makes this site inaccessible for wheelchairs or those with significant mobility challenges.
•Stay on the Path: For your safety and to protect the environment, remain on the designated paths and viewing areas.
•Photography: Tripods are generally allowed, but be mindful of other visitors. The space behind the waterfall is narrow.
Nearby Places Worth Adding
1.Kurokawa Onsen: A famous hot spring town just 20 minutes away by car. It’s known for its traditional atmosphere and outdoor baths (rotenburo).
2.Aso-Kuju National Park: Home to the active Mount Aso volcano, this park offers dramatic landscapes, hiking trails, and the vast Kusasenri-ga-hama grassland.
3.Daikanbo Lookout: Provides a panoramic view of the Aso caldera and its five peaks. It is about a 40-minute drive from the waterfall.
Where to Stay
There are no hotels at Nabegataki Falls itself. The most practical base for a visit is the nearby city of Aso or the hot spring town of Kurokawa Onsen. Since lodging in Kurokawa can be limited and expensive, Aso offers a wider range of options.
Here are two highly-rated hotels in the Aso area:
•Kamenoi Hotel Aso Park (7.8/10): A solid 3-star option with mountain views, located in the Mount Aso area. It’s a good base for exploring the wider national park.
•Kumamoto Guesthouse Little Asia (7.7/10): A budget-friendly and well-regarded guesthouse, offering a more local experience. It is located a bit further out but provides excellent value.
→ Search for hotels in the Aso area on Agoda
Summary
Nabegataki Falls is a rewarding destination for those exploring the Aso region of Kumamoto. Its main draw is the ability to walk behind the waterfall, a unique experience that requires advance online booking. Access is by car only, and the path includes a steep, potentially slippery staircase. A visit takes about an-hour and is best combined with other nearby sights like Kurokawa Onsen or Mount Aso.
Conclusion
A visit to Nabegataki Falls is less about the grandeur of the waterfall and more about the intimate and unusual perspective it offers. It requires some planning—booking a ticket online and arranging transportation—but provides a memorable encounter with one of Kyushu’s natural wonders.
Sources / References
•[1] Oguni Town Official Website – Nabegataki
•[2] Kumamoto Guide – Nabegataki Falls
•[3] Kurokawa Onsen Official Website
Notes & Exceptions
•The online reservation system is mandatory. Failure to book in advance may result in being denied entry.
•The park is subject to sudden closures due to weather. Always verify its operational status before visiting.
•The ground is uneven and wet. This location is not recommended for visitors with balance or mobility issues.
Certainty Level
High. Information is based on official tourism websites and visitor guides.
