If you’re scared of heights – this hike isn’t for you.
Hoshida Park, known as the ‘Forest of Osaka’, is home to the largest suspension bridge in Japan at a length of 280 meters and a height of 50 meters. The bridge, Hoshi no Buranko, is locally known as the Star Swing Bridge, stemming from the belief that standing on the bridge at night feels like floating among the stars. Despite its name, unfortunately you cannot walk across the bridge at night; it currently closes at 1630hrs.
This hike takes you through a well-signposted forest route, leading you across the bridge, before making your way back down. The route to the bridge and back spans around 8km and is suitable for beginners. To get to the start of the hike take the Keihan Main Line from Kyobashi to Hirakatashi Station. From Hirakatashi Station, take the Katano Line to Kisaichi Station (the end of the line). Follow the trail around the scenic Amano River which should be on your left-hand side on your way up. It will take around 1-hour to get to the bridge from the start of your hike, depending on your pace.
The longest wooden footbridge in Japan! 📍 Hike to Hoshi no Buranko 🌉✨ Looking for a perfect half-day adventure near Osaka? 🏞️ Start your hike from Kisaichi Station 🚉 and immerse yourself in forests, peaceful trails, and breathtaking views. 🌳🌲 👟 Trail Details: 📏 ~2.5 km one way 🌿 Easy to moderate difficulty 🕒 Takes about 2-3 hours round trip The highlight? Hoshi no Buranko—a massive suspension bridge that makes you feel like you’re walking among the stars! ✨ The view from up there is absolutely incredible, with a canopy of greenery stretching as far as the eye can see. 😍 🍙 Pro Tip: Pack a snack or bento to enjoy at the picnic area nearby—it’s the perfect way to recharge before heading back! 🌅 End your adventure with a serene walk back to Kisaichi Station as the sun sets over the Kansai wilderness. 📸 Tag your hiking buddy and save this post for your next outdoor escape! 🌟 #HikingJapan#Osaka#Japan#HoshiNoBuranko#KansaiAdventures#OsakaHikes#NatureLovers
Don’t go chasing waterfalls, or do! If you’re a person who craves being in nature like me, you’ll be pleased to find out that Minoh Park (also spelled Minoo or Mino) is an easy day-trip to escape the bustle of the city. Minoh Park is located just 30-minutes to the north of Osaka and is famous for its tranquil hiking trails and waterfalls.
Minoh Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in Japan. In spring, Minoh Park is an ideal location to view cherry blossoms, while autumn transforms the park into a canvas of warm hues, making it one of the Kansai region’s best spots for koyo (autumn leaf viewing).
How to get to Minoh Falls
To get to Minoh Falls, catch the Hankyu Takarazuka Line from Osaka to Ishibashi-handaimae Station, then transfer to the Hankyu Minoh Line to reach Minoh. This will bring you to Minoh Station (Mino-o) – the park’s entrance.
From Mino-o Station, you can either choose to follow the hiking route, or catch the one-way sightseeing bus directly from the train station. The sightseeing bus will take you to Katsuoji-Temple first, so if you’d like to combine this with your trip to the falls this is a great option.
Travel tip: If the sightseeing bus isn’t operating from Mino-o Station on the day that you visit, you could get the train to Minoh-kayano Station and catch a local bus up to Katsuoji Temple before walking down to see the falls. Or get a taxi!
The Hiking Trail
The hiking trail is located just a five-minute walk north of Mino-o Station. You will enter the park via a bridge across the River Minoh where you can then follow signage to get to the falls. Navigating the main route is super easy! The main signposted trail to Minoh Falls is a gentle 2.8-kilometer path that winds through a forest landscape and adjacent to the Minoh River. With a paved route and a gradual incline, it’s accessible for hikers of all levels, and suitable for those with pushchairs or wheelchairs. Yes – this is a hike that you can do easily with children. You’ll also be happy to know that there are also nine public toilets en route.
Along the main route, you have the opportunity to stop by the peaceful Bhuddist temple – Ryuanji Temple. Ryuanji Temple is one of the most peaceful temples that I have visited so far in Osaka. You can also check out Minoh Park Insectarium and local shops selling the famous momiji tempura—crispy deep-fried maple leaves, a must-try snack. Be sure to have cash with you as some vendors only accept cash payment.
After walking for around 45 minutes, you’ll arrive at Minoh Falls, the 33-meter cascade and prime photo spot. The beauty of the falls changes with the seasons: red and gold leaves in autumn, vibrant greens in summer, and a quietness in winter. Take a moment to soak in the scenery and snap a few photos—this is the perfect spot for a rest.
Minoh Falls
Travel tip: Visit early in the morning or on a weekday if you can to avoid crowds and enjoy the falls in peaceful solitude.
On your route back down, be sure to dip your feet into the free foot bath located along the main walking route to/from the train station to soothe your achey feet.
Climb to the observation deck
There is an incredible view of Osaka which is signposted during your walk along the main path. The walk to the observation deck is not an easy walk up and you will need to climb a fair amount of stairs to get to it. I climbed to the deck after visiting the falls and I’m glad that I did. Check out the view below!
View from the observation deck
Travel tip: Climb to the viewing point after viewing the falls, if you do it before, your legs may be tired.
Feeling adventurous?
If you want to stray off the main hiking trail and delve further into the forest, there are a few options available to you. The two main options involve making your way north past the falls to the Visitor Centre before deciding to go either:
North to reach the Minoogawa Dam where you will be greeted with scenic views of the weir. If you head north, you could also extend your hike to include a visit to Katsuoji-temple. If you choose to do this, you will add an additional 45-minutes of walking uphill, but then the reward is that you can get a local bus back down from the temple directly to the train station!
South via forest paths to see Saigaharaike Pond. If you choose to enter the forest routes, keep an eye out for Japanese macaques and do not feed them; these curious monkeys sometimes make an appearance.
Final thoughts
Your day exploring Minoh Park can be as long as you want it to be. It is suitable for all ages and abilities. Minoh Park and Falls provides both a kid friendly, easy hike and an opportunity for a walking adventure through the forest. I highly recommend visiting for a day-trip, you can definitely visit Minoh Park and Falls in one-day. Happy hiking! Let me know what you get up to in the comments when you visit.
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