Nabegataki Falls
Experience the magic of Nabegataki Falls, a unique 'back-view' waterfall where you can walk behind the cascading water.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Nabegataki Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the magic of Nabegataki Falls, a unique 'back-view' waterfall where you can walk behind the cascading water.
"A mystical waterfall offering a unique perspective, like stepping into a Ghibli film."
🚶♀️ Easy Walk to the Falls
A short, well-paved walk leads to the falls. Walking sticks are available if needed.
💰 Affordable Entrance Fee
Entry is only ¥300 per person, making it a budget-friendly natural attraction.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Walk Behind the Water Curtain
Behind the falls
Experience the unique sensation of walking behind the cascading water, a truly magical and immersive moment.
The 'Back-View Waterfall'
Cave-like space behind the falls
Admire the falls from a hidden perspective, feeling the cool mist and enjoying a serene, otherworldly atmosphere.
Picturesque Landscape
Base of the falls
The wide, 10-meter drop creates a stunning natural spectacle surrounded by lush greenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Prepare for a Refreshing Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy Walk to the Falls
A short, well-paved walk leads to the falls. Walking sticks are available if needed.
💰 Affordable Entrance Fee
Entry is only ¥300 per person, making it a budget-friendly natural attraction.
💦 Prepare to Get Wet!
Walking behind the falls means you'll likely get misted. Embrace it for a refreshing experience!
🚗 Spacious Free Parking
Ample free parking is available, though the road leading there can be narrow.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Walk to the Falls
A short, well-paved walk leads to the falls. Walking sticks are available if needed.
💰 Affordable Entrance Fee
Entry is only ¥300 per person, making it a budget-friendly natural attraction.
💦 Prepare to Get Wet!
Walking behind the falls means you'll likely get misted. Embrace it for a refreshing experience!
🚗 Spacious Free Parking
Ample free parking is available, though the road leading there can be narrow.
📸 Ghibli-esque Scenery
The falls offer a breathtaking, almost Ghibli-like view, perfect for photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Nabegataki Falls for its unique 'back-view' waterfall experience and serene natural beauty, often comparing it to a Ghibli film. The easy walk and affordable entrance fee make it a highly recommended stop in Kumamoto. Some note the narrow roads leading to the falls and the potential to get wet when walking behind the water.
"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."
SiewHong Png
"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."
Benz Hue
"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"
Kate Jacobs
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car, taking approximately 2 hours. The roads can be narrow in sections, so drive carefully. Public transport options are limited and involve multiple transfers, making a rental car or organized tour the most convenient choice.
While possible, it's challenging. You'd typically need to take a bus to Oguni town and then potentially a local bus or taxi to the falls. It's recommended to check the latest bus schedules as they can be infrequent.
The road is scenic but can be very narrow in certain parts, especially as you get closer to the falls. Drive cautiously and be mindful of oncoming traffic.
Yes, there is spacious and free parking available near the entrance.
Yes, it's possible to visit Nabegataki Falls as a day trip from Fukuoka, though it's a longer journey (around 2.5-3 hours one way by car). Many combine it with other sights in Kumamoto.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is ¥300 per person. This is a small fee for the unique experience offered.
The falls are generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to visit when there's ample natural light to appreciate the scenery. Night illumination is sometimes offered, but check local information for specifics.
No, advance booking is typically not required. You can pay the entrance fee at the small shop or ticketing office upon arrival.
While specific discounts aren't widely advertised, the entrance fee is very affordable. A family of two adults and one child paid ¥1200, indicating a reasonable family rate.
While the falls are sometimes illuminated at night for special events, the primary visiting hours are during the day to best appreciate the natural beauty.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can walk behind the curtain of water, enjoy the scenic views from the cave-like area, and paddle your feet in the stream at the base. The surrounding nature also offers a peaceful environment to relax.
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour here, depending on how long they wish to take photos or simply enjoy the atmosphere. The walk behind the falls is about 5-10 minutes round trip if you're just passing through.
The walk is generally considered easy, more of a gentle stroll than a hike. It's well-paved, and walking sticks are available if needed.
Swimming directly in the falls is not recommended due to safety and conservation reasons. However, you can paddle your feet in the stream at the base of the falls.
Experiment with different angles, especially from behind the falls for a unique perspective. A wide-angle lens can capture the full curtain of water. Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and get clearer shots.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
There is a small shop near the entrance that offers refreshments and vending machines. For more substantial meals, you'll need to visit nearby towns like Oguni.
Picnicking is generally allowed in natural areas, but it's always good practice to check for any specific rules posted at the site. Be sure to take all your trash with you.
The small shop typically offers drinks from vending machines and possibly some local snacks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring a change of clothes or a towel, as they are likely to get a bit wet from the mist. The ¥300 entrance fee is very reasonable for a family activity. While there aren't dedicated play areas, the natural surroundings offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. Paddling feet in the stream at the base of the falls can be a fun and refreshing activity on a warm day. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited to a small shop with vending machines.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
While not a strenuous hike, the well-maintained path is pleasant for a leisurely stroll. The manageable size of the attraction means you can easily visit and be on your way within an hour, making it a perfect stop on a longer road trip through Kumamoto. The affordable entrance fee and ample parking add to its convenience for independent explorers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Formation of Nabegataki Falls
The term 'Ura-mi no Taki' (裏見の滝), meaning 'Back-View Waterfall,' perfectly describes its most captivating feature. The way the water flows over the rock face allows visitors to walk into a shallow cave behind the cascade. This provides an unparalleled perspective, allowing you to see the water falling in front of you while being sheltered behind the rock. It's an experience that feels both intimate and awe-inspiring, connecting you directly with the natural forces at play.
+1Experiencing Nabegataki Falls: A Photographer's Paradise
+1For those looking to capture the magical atmosphere, consider visiting on a weekday to minimize crowds and allow for more unhurried shots. The mist from the falls can add a dreamy quality to your photos, but be sure to protect your camera equipment. Some visitors have even captured the falls under the night sky, suggesting that with the right lighting, it can offer a different kind of photographic allure.
The overall serene environment, often compared to scenes from Studio Ghibli films, makes every shot feel like a work of art. 
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