Nachi Falls

Two candidates for the nearest station to Nachi Falls: Kii-Katsuura and Nachi

Search for "nearest station to Nachi Falls" and two names come up on the JR Kisei Main Line: Kii-Katsuura Station and Nachi Station. Both are located in Nachikatsuura Town, but in truth, neither station is within walking distance of Nachi Falls.

Nachi Falls sits halfway up Mt. Nachi, inland from the coast where the stations are. Even when we call them "nearest stations," it helps to remember that the standard way to continue from either station is by bus up into the mountains. Keeping this in mind makes planning much easier.

Getting to know the character of each station

Kii-Katsuura Station｜A convenient gateway for your journey

This is the main station at the center of town, and most people arriving by limited express train get off here. The area around the station has restaurants, lodgings, and tourist information all gathered together, so it's easy to sort out your luggage or ask about meals. There's also a port-town atmosphere that makes you feel you've truly arrived in Kumano the moment you step off the train.

If it's your first time visiting Mt. Nachi, starting from Kii-Katsuura Station is a safe choice.

Nachi Station｜A quiet seaside gateway

Nachi Station is a small station near the sea, well suited to strolling around the Hama-no-miya area. The surroundings include places long tied to Kumano faith, making it a good choice for those who want to feel Kumano from the coast before climbing up to Mt. Nachi.

Since which trains stop here and how often they run can vary by season and timetable, it's reassuring to check the latest train information before your trip.

From the station to Nachi Falls, the basic approach is "up the mountain by bus"

Local buses are the main way to travel from either station toward Mt. Nachi. The character of your trip will change depending on where you get off—whether near the falls themselves, or at the entrance to the stone-paved Daimon-zaka pilgrimage path.

Since bus frequencies, routes, and fares are subject to change, be sure to check the latest information from the bus operator before you set out.

Choosing your station by travel style

For an efficient day trip

Starting from Kii-Katsuura Station is the most straightforward option. It's easy to grab a meal, do some shopping, or adjust your time before the return train—ideal for first-time visitors.

If you'd also like to enjoy coastal scenery

Try walking around Nachi Station first, then heading up the mountain. You'll experience the flow of Kumano's scenery as it rises from sea to mountain. It's a good plan for a day when you can take your time.

If you want to stay the night before and make the most of the morning

Basing yourself around Kii-Katsuura Station, where most of the lodgings are, makes it easier to plan an early morning departure.

A word from a local

Your "nearest station" is both an arrival point and the starting point of your journey. Once you arrive, take a moment to look up at the sky and clouds. Mountain weather changes more quickly than at the coast, so bringing a light layer to throw on is a smart idea.

From station to mountain, from sea to waterfall—the journey itself is an important part of visiting Nachi. Please plan with plenty of time to spare, and enjoy breathing in the air of Kumano.

Image: 那智の滝 (via (公社)和歌山県観光連盟)