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
Akame 48 Waterfalls Trail is a well-known trail for deep mountain valleys and waterfalls of various sizes, widths, plunges and waterflows. The hike will take you into the Murō-Akame-Aoyama Quasi-National Park, past multiple stunning waterfalls. The 48 waterfalls are a collective name for a string of waterfalls flowing through Akame-cho, Nabari, Mie.
This location is where the first Ninjas used to train and perfect their art form. Go to the home of the Ninja, viewing the history of ninjas from stalls, shops and even restaurants. Enter a giant salamander museum, view these impressive creatures which are native to this area.
There are different routes that you can take, which vary in their difficulty. The three route options are:
Route 1 – Short and easy course, 20-minutes (one-way). This route is mostly paved and suitable for casual hikers. It will take you past three out of the five best waterfalls, Fudo Falls, Senju Falls and Nunobiki Falls. Be sure to not miss the deep valley at the start of the route which is said to date back over 15-million years; an unfathomable amount of time.
Route 2 – Moderate course, 90-minutes (one-way). This route is paved and includes some steep staircase sections, which can be slippy if it’s been raining. This route will ensure that you experience all five of the best waterfalls, adding Ninai Falls and Biwa Falls to your route.
Route 3 – Advanced course, 170-minutes (one-way) with a 584m elevation gain. This route takes you past the same waterfalls as route 1, before deviating onto the advanced course toward Mt. Nagasaka. The trail is steep but includes plenty of rest spots, making it manageable for intermediate hikers. To fully enjoy the experience, plan for a whole day.
To get the starting point of all three routes, take the Kintetsu-Osaka Line from Tsuruhashi Station (accessible via the Osaka Loop Line) to Akameguchi Station, this takes around 1hr 05mins. From Akameguchi Station, catch a bus from the bus station to Akamedaki.
The bus takes just 10-minutes on the Akame Line. Be sure to note the time of the last bus back from the falls and give yourself plenty of time to head back. From Akamedaki, follow the road around to the start of the hike.
All paths are well-signposted from the bus stop. Follow the route uphill and pass through the Salamander aquarium where you pay a small fee of 1,000 yen before starting your hike.
🌿✨ Explore the breathtaking beauty of Akame 48 Waterfalls! 🌊🍃 Just a short trip from Osaka, this serene hike offers cascading falls, lush green forests, and magical vibes! 🌟 Whether you’re spotting salamanders 🦎, soaking in the peaceful sounds of nature 🎶, or dressing up as a ninja 🥷, this spot is a must-visit! 💧🏞️ ⏰ Duration: 2–3 hours round trip (easy-moderate hike) 🎒 What to bring: Comfy shoes, a water bottle, and your sense of adventure! 💬 Tag someone who’d love this hike! 🥾💚 #Akame48Waterfalls#OsakaDayTrips#HikingVibes#NatureLovers#JapanTravel#Osaka#Travel#Daytrip
Nestled between Osaka and Kyoto, the charming city of Takatsuki offers a delightful mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you’re visiting Osaka for the first time or returning to uncover its hidden gems, a trip to Takatsuki is a perfect way to spend the day. Here’s how to make the most of your visit, especially if you’re here on April 29th for the spectacular Koinobori Festival.
Start Your Day with Takatsuki’s Local Charm
From Osaka Station, Takatsuki is just a quick 15-minute ride on the JR Kyoto Line to Takatsuki Station. Upon arrival, you’ll notice the city’s relaxed pace compared to bustling downtown Osaka, making it a refreshing escape.
Begin your exploration at Akutagawa River Park. This serene spot is especially lively in spring, with families and visitors gathering to enjoy the blooming cherry blossoms and the festive atmosphere of the Koinobori Festival.
The Koinobori Festival: A Highlight of Spring
Every year on April 29th, the skies above the Akutagawa River are adorned with colourful koinobori (carp-shaped windsocks) fluttering in the breeze. This traditional festival symbolises wishes for children’s health and success, and it’s a sight you won’t want to miss.
The festival atmosphere includes food stalls offering classic Osaka street food like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Don’t forget to try dango (sweet rice dumplings) while soaking in the lively ambiance. There are also cultural performances and activities for families, including a traditional japanese drum performance, making it a joyous event for all ages.
Explore Historical and Cultural Spots
After enjoying the festival, head to the nearby Takatsuki Castle Ruins Park. While the castle itself no longer stands, the park offers panoramic views of Osaka and the surrounding area, along with a tranquil setting perfect for a leisurely stroll.
For a deeper dive into history, visit the Settsu-Kyo Gorge, a natural wonder just a short bus ride away. Known for its dramatic rock formations and clear waters, it’s a favorite spot for hiking and photography enthusiasts.
Where to Eat: Savor Takatsuki’s Culinary Delights
Takatsuki boasts a vibrant food scene, blending traditional Osaka flavors with local specialties. Here are some recommendations:
Ramen Kaido: Known for its rich, savory broth and perfectly cooked noodles, this ramen shop is a must-visit.
Kissa Yū: A charming café offering retro vibes and a selection of coffee and cakes. It’s the perfect spot for a mid-afternoon break.
Shinshu Soba Takatsuki: Specializing in hand-made soba noodles, this restaurant provides a taste of authentic Japanese cuisine.
End Your Day on a High Note with Live Jazz!
Before heading back to Osaka, enjoy a leisurely evening in Takatsuki’s downtown area. The Takatsuki Jazz Street, held in May, sets the tone for the city’s artistic spirit, and you can catch live performances at some local bars and cafés year-round.
If you’re visiting during the cherry blossom season, consider taking an evening walk along the Akutagawa River, where the illuminated sakura creates a beautiful atmosphere.
Getting Back to Osaka
Takatsuki’s convenient location means you’ll be back in Osaka in no time. Reflect on your day as you return to the vibrant city, having experienced a slice of authentic Japanese culture just a short train ride away.
Plan Your Takatsuki Adventure
Whether you’re in Osaka for a few days or longer, Takatsuki offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. Don’t miss the chance to visit during the Koinobori Festival on April 29th, where the city truly comes alive with colour and celebration.
To the north east of Osaka, there’s a park called Hiraoka Park. But there isn’t just a park – there are a lot of hiking routes here too! The route I’m going to take you through today is all uphill, starting and ending at Hiraoka Station.
Indicative map of the hike and its main sights
Level of difficulty: 4 out of 5 (elevation change ~400m). The duration of the hike can be as long as you want it to be, it can last between 3-5hrs and cover a distance of 10-12km. The route is steep, with plenty of places to rest. I would reserve a whole day to make the most of your hike.
Access
To get to the Hiraoka, from Umeda Station take a train on the Midosuji line and get off at Namba. From Namba, swap to the Kintetsu-Nara Line and take the Sub Semi-Express toward Yamato-Saidaiji. Get off the train at Hiraoka. An express train should take about 20 minutes or so. Please note that this is an unmanned station.
First, a visit to the Hiraoka Jinja Shrine (枚岡神社)
Leave Hiraoka Station and turn right. Head towards the railway crossing, cross over the railway tracks and be careful. Once over the railway tracks turn right and head up until you reach a Tori gate on your left. This Tori gate is called Ni-no-Torii Gate, second Shinto Shine arch of Hiraoka Jinja. Make your way up and follow the blue flags to reach Hiraoka Jinja Shrine and the Hayden Shrine Hall of worship. This is a centuries-old shrine reconstructed in 1826, with sweeping views of Osaka & spring plum blossoms. The shrine is known as one of the few power spots in Osaka. It hosts various festivals throughout the year, including traditional celebrations like the Setsubun Festival, where beans are thrown to ward off evil spirits, and events dedicated to the local harvest. Take a moment to admire its beauty and make a wish.
Many temples and shrines throughout Japan burn incense. I recommend this Incense Gift Set with Low Smoke Incense and Ceramic Incense Holder with Brass Stand as a great gift for someone who loves Japan!
The Hike
After a visit to Hiraoka Jinja Shrine, make your way back down to begin the hike. Keep left to follow the road to the left of the shrine (north of the car park). Here you will walk along the road for a short section before reaching Uber Geike Pond. The pond looks unassuming – but it has an interesting story!
The pond has been called Ubagaike since ancient times. It originates from a Legend of a Sad Old Woman Throwing Herself, which happened 600 years ago. The legend goes that every night the oil in the sacred lantern at Hiraoka Shrine ran out, and the fires would disappear one after another. It was discovered that an old woman who was struggling to make ends meet had been stealing and selling the oil. The person who found out felt sorry for her and released her. However, the rumours spread that the old woman threw herself into the pond, and no one in the village felt sorry for her, thinking that she had been punished by Myojin. It is said that pale flames appeared nearby and troubled the villagers. This story appears in many haiku and plays, including a short story by Ihara Saikaku, as Ubagaike no Gadai. It is also listed in Japanese and Chinese Sansai Zue and Kawachi Famous Places.
From the (now interesting!) pond, continue walking left until you reach Kuragane Bridge. Pass over the short bridge, stopping to get food or a drink if you need one, and make a right turn. Turning right will take you uphill along the road for a short section before arriving at a seating area on your right hand side when I went there were some cats residing in the seating area looking very chilled out and loved up! From here, you can either follow the road or you can follow the small stone paved steps up. Assuming you follow the road, be sure to watch out for cars. Continue uphill until you reach a bright red bridge on your right hand side – this is Toyoura Bridge – walk over the bridge and follow the steps to walk alongside the river and view the waterfall.
Toyoura Bridge
Wow, what a scenic and tranquil setting for a picnic. It felt like I had this entire place all to myself so if you’re looking for somewhere to escape alone or with your friends or family in Osaka, I definitely recommend this spot. It’s a lot less busy than Minoh Waterfall as well. You can even get close to the water so that you can dip your feet in. This spot has a truly magical and peaceful vibe to escape the city for a while to reset.
View Rice Terraces
You can then choose to hike further up the path to see Kenji Buddhist temple and the Caughey Togay Rice Terraces! If you would have told me that you can see rice terraces in Osaka, I wouldn’t have believed you. Japan has many stunning rice terraces known as “tanada” (棚田). If you decide to continue your hike further from the rice terraces, you can make your way around to the right following the hiking path.
The Final Stretch to Tsutsuji Flowers Road
Continuing your hike will come with a reward! it will lead you towards an observation deck known as Hiraoka Observatory. You will be met with absolutely breathtaking views from here. I won’t ruin the reward for you. A short walk further then leads you to the end of your hike – the beautiful Tsutsuju Flowers Road, which has a stunning natural display of flowers! This is a great place to end your hike and have a rest before making your way back down the route toward the train station.
Make your way back down toward the train station and be sure to get the train back from Platform 2 toward Osaka. Alternatively Platform 1 will take you towards the popular deer spot – Nara!
Top tips for the hike
When I went on the hike in mid-march it was quite humid that day 23°, I don’t recommend hiking far in the height of summer when it will be too hot. There are signs for forest fires and snakes on your hike – so be sure to keep an eye out. I personally didn’t see any snakes. Here are my tips:
Make sure you bring your own food and drink
Wear a hat and cover your arms and legs because there’s quite a few midges and potentially mosquitoes.
Take photos of the route on your way around so you don’t get lost and have a reference point.
Be careful on the road and watch out for cars and bikes; though generally in Japan a lot of people seem to drive very respectfully.
People live on part of the route so make sure that you remain respectful don’t take photos of them.
Be prepared for your hikes! Mont-bell is a very popular brand that most hikers wear in Japan.
When you think of Osaka, hiking isn’t the first to spring to mind. Despite this, Osaka is great for hiking if you know where to go. If you’re seeking a hike just outside of the city, and within easy reach by train, the Kisen Alps are a hidden gem. The Kisen Alps are a series of rolling peaks located on the Osaka-Wakayama prefectural border. Despite their close proximity to the big city, the mountains are relatively unspoiled and completely natural, without a single cedar tree in sight.
Access
To get to the Kisen Apls, from Tennoji station (天王時駅) take a train on the JR Wakayama line and get off at Yamanakadani (山中渓駅). An express train should take about 45 minutes or so. Please note that this is an unmanned station.
Level of difficulty: 2 out of 5 (elevation change ~200m). The duration of the hike can last between 4-6hrs and cover a distance of 12.3km.
The Adventure Begins
Go through the unmanned ticket gates, and turn right on the small paved road in front of the station. Turn right at the next street, where you’ll cross a small river and the railroad tracks. Follow the signs to Kisen Alps (記泉アルプス), turning left at the sign, and then right up a small dirt road. This road eventually becomes the trailhead, as you pass through a very funky entrance gate. The path climbs rather steeply at first, paralleling a large expressway. The traffic noise is pretty loud, but you’ll soon leave that all behind and enter a magical wonderland of beautiful flora. I have no idea why this area was spared of the post-war deforestation, but I’m so happy it was.
As you hike, imagine how beautiful this country must’ve been hundreds of years ago, when every single forest looked just like this! Keep your eyes out for snakes and wild boar, as there are quite a few in this area. After about 30 minutes of climbing, you’ll reach the ridgeline and a trail junction. Head to the right for about 20 meters to reach a wonderful clearing with excellent views of Kansai airport and Osaka bay. Take some photos and head back to the junction.
The Ridgeline and Unzenbou Peak
The trail follows the entire mountain ridge, and your target is the high point called Unzenbou (雲仙峰). There’s a considerable amount of up and down between here and the top, but it’s not too difficult. There are lots of places to take breaks and enjoy the outstanding scenery. You should reach the peak in about 2 hours or so. Just below the top, you’ll come across a 3-way junction with beautiful bilingual signposts. Yep, you’ve officially entered Wakayama prefecture, where they seem to have more money in their budget for trail maintenance. Continue on to the top of Unzenbou. There’s not much of a view from here, so after taking a break continue down the other side. In about 10 minutes, you’ll come across yet another trail junction, with magnificent views of Wakayama city and the Pacific Ocean. Turn left at the junction and you’ll reach a well-maintained public park with lots of benches and a gazebo. This is a great place for a picnic or a nap on a pleasant day.
The Final Stretch
From here, trails split off in all directions, and you’ve got lots of options. I’d recommend following the signs to Kii station (紀伊駅). It should take about 90 minutes or so from the park to the station, and there are lots of different trails you have to take, so follow the signs carefully. Just before the trail dumps you out on a road, you’ll pass through a bamboo forest that is hauntingly beautiful at dusk. From Kii station, you can catch a JR train back to Tennoji.
When to go
This hike can be done year round, but I’ve been told that autumn is the best time to see the forests in all their glory. If you’re wondering where to hike around Osaka – put Kisen Alps on your list as one of the most scenic hikes in Osaka, Japan.
Have you been on this hike? let me know how you found it in the comments!
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