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.
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!
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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