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Kobe Ichigahara Hiking & Mini Camping
I went hiking to Ichigahara. I wouldn’t normally walk up a mountain by myself, but my senior invited me (grateful!) and I went.
I was worried it might rain in the afternoon and get cold, but the temperature was just right and comfortable. We roasted the camping staples - sausages and marshmallows - and enjoyed drinking alcohol!
Are you thinking of relaxing at Ichigahara or going to a nearby campsite? Ichigahara is enjoyable even on the way there!!
There’s light mountain climbing to get there, but it’s surprisingly rich in nature for being within walking distance of Kobe Sannomiya Station.
IMPORTANTConclusion: The best spot where you can enjoy “waterfall × fresh greenery × riverside camping” all within a 1-hour walk from Sannomiya.
I’ve summarized information about Ichigahara!!
What Kind of Place is Ichigahara? | Urban-Adjacent “Hidden Gem”
- Location: Chuo-ku, Kobe City
- Elevation: Around 340m
- Features: Has Nunobiki Valley and a wide riverbank where you can enjoy hiking + mini camping
Access & Model Course
| Start | Main Route | Distance | Time Required* |
|---|---|---|---|
| JR・Hankyu・Hanshin Sannomiya Station | Nunobiki Falls → Nunobiki Reservoir → Ichigahara | About 4 km | About 45–60 minutes |
*Flat road equivalent, excluding breaks.
📌 For detailed maps, see Google Maps.
Essential Gear Checklist
- Lightweight leisure sheet
- Camping stove + mini cookware + marshmallows
- Soft cooler that fits 2 × 500ml cans
- Rain gear (for sudden rain)
- Garbage bags (Leave No Trace)
Highlights Along the Way
Nunobiki Falls is counted among Japan’s “100 Famous Waterfalls.” The roaring sound and water spray provide excellent refreshment effects!!
The fresh greenery in May is guaranteed to be “Instagram-worthy.”
It was cloudy that day, but on clear days you can overlook Kobe Port. The night view would be enjoyable too.
Tips for Enjoying Mini Camping by the Riverbank
- Secure your spot early
On weekends it gets crowded after 11 AM, so arriving in the morning is safe. - Strictly follow fire regulations
Direct fires are prohibited. - Instagram-worthy menu
- Sausages & marshmallows
- Coffee drip set
- Canned beer or sake
WARNINGPrecautions and Etiquette
- Use the public restroom at Ichigahara Dam
- Always take your garbage with you
- Loud speakers are NG (consideration for other hikers)
Summary | Experience “Real Outdoor Adventure” in 6 Weekend Hours
Ichigahara has an excellent balance of “accessibility × nature × activities.”
I recommend a “half-day course”: Depart Sannomiya 9:00 → Arrive 10:00 → Descend 13:30. After descending, visit a stylish cafe in Sannomiya!?
Points of Interest
NOTEI checked things I was curious about before going, so I’ll share them here
Are there restrooms?
Yes, there's a public restroom at a place called Ichigahara Dam. It's up the stairs from the campsite toward the road side!Can you buy drinks?
Yes, there's a shop! They were even selling sweet red bean soup!
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