Beyond Minoh Waterfall! 5 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Minoh City

When people think of sightseeing in Minoh City, the first thing that comes to mind is the famous Minoh Waterfall. However, the city is also home to historic temples such as Ryuanji Temple, Katsuo-ji Temple, and Saiko-ji Temple, each offering a unique cultural experience. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, take in breathtaking panoramic views from the Bokai Hill Observatory, or relax at Momiji Foot Bath after strolling along the Takimichi path. To top off the day, a glass of Minoh Beer is the perfect way to unwind. In this article, we introduce five carefully selected must-visit attractions in Minoh City that go beyond its iconic waterfall.

1. Minoh Waterfall

Minoh Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction nestled within Meiji-no-Mori Minoh Quasi-National Park. Cascading from a height of approximately 33 meters, this renowned waterfall has been selected as one of the “Top 100 Waterfalls in Japan.” In early summer, the lush greenery surrounding the falls creates a vibrant atmosphere, and the negative ions from the rushing water fill the air, offering a refreshing and revitalizing experience. Visitors are often drawn to take deep breaths, immersing themselves in the serene beauty of nature.

Throughout the year, Minoh Waterfall hosts various events that captivate visitors. One highlight is the Minoh Kawadoko, where guests can indulge in delicious cuisine while admiring the picturesque natural scenery. During summer nights, the waterfall is illuminated, creating a magical ambiance. In August, the Candle Road event takes place, where around 6,000 candles light up Minoh Waterfall and Ryu-anji Temple Square, transforming the surroundings into a mesmerizing spectacle.

The best time to visit Minoh Waterfall is undoubtedly during autumn, from mid-November to early December. During this period, the surrounding deciduous trees turn vibrant shades of red and yellow, creating a breathtaking sight. The waterfall blends harmoniously with the colorful foliage, offering picture-perfect views. There are about 12 different types of trees that change colors in this season. Along the trail leading to the falls, visitors can also find Momiji Tempura, a unique local delicacy made from maple leaves that are pickled and deep-fried in tempura batter. This crispy snack is not only enjoyable while walking but also makes for an excellent souvenir. The area also features several hiking trails, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely nature walk.

2. Ryu-anji Temple

Ryu-anji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located along the trail leading to Minoh Waterfall. Established in 650 AD (Hakuchi Era), it was founded by En-no-Gyoja, the legendary ascetic and founder of Shugendo. Originally named Minoh-ji Temple, it later received an imperial plaque from Emperor Go-Daigo and was renamed Ryu-anji. Over the centuries, it has flourished as a training center for mountain ascetics, attracting Yamabushi monks from all over Japan. Even today, the temple remains an important site for Shugendo practices. Every April, July, and November, the Grand Goma Fire Ritual is held, where monks in traditional Yamabushi attire walk from Minoh Station to Ryu-anji Temple. At the ritual site, a sacred fire is lit, and offerings are burned in a powerful spiritual ceremony.

The temple’s principal deity is Benzaiten, one of the Four Great Benzaiten Shrines of Japan, alongside Chikubushima, Enoshima, and Itsukushima. Among these, Minoh Benzaiten is considered the oldest. Additionally, Ryu-anji is known as the birthplace of Japan’s lottery. The temple is mentioned in a poem by Fujiwara Kanetaka in the Fubokushu anthology from the Kamakura period (about 950 years ago), describing the origins of a fortune-drawing tradition. During the Edo period, people from all over Japan flocked to the temple to participate in its lottery events. Although the tradition was discontinued in the Meiji era, it was revived in 2015 as the "Minoh Lottery", following ancient customs. This special event is held annually on October 10th.

3. Katsuo-ji Temple

Katsuo-ji Temple is nestled in the heart of Minoo Quasi-National Park in Osaka and is home to the principal deity, the Eleven-Faced Thousand-Hand Kannon Bodhisattva. It is the 23rd temple of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage and has a long history dating back to 727 AD. The temple was founded when twin brothers Fujiwara Zenchu and Zensan, sons of Fujiwara Chikafusa, established a hermitage.

During the reign of Emperor Seiwa, monks at the temple prayed for his recovery from illness. As a result, the temple was bestowed with the name "Katsuo-ji," meaning "Temple of Victory for the King." However, out of humility, the monks changed the name to "Katsuo-ji," which still conveys the meaning of victory. Since then, the temple has been revered as a place of good fortune and success. Within the temple grounds, shelves are lined with countless Daruma dolls, each with both eyes drawn in as a symbol of fulfilled wishes. Daruma dolls can be found throughout the temple, and many are available for purchase at the temple shop, often featuring words associated with victory and luck.

Every year in early November, the temple and the surrounding mountains burst into vibrant shades of red and yellow, creating a breathtaking autumn scenery. The solemn atmosphere of the temple enhances the beauty of the autumn leaves, leaving visitors in awe. A limited-time illumination event further adds to the enchanting ambiance, making it a must-visit destination during the fall season.

4. Minoh Beer

Minoh Beer is a renowned brewery located in Minoh City, a nature-rich area in northern Osaka. While popular in Japan, it has also gained international acclaim, winning numerous awards at the World Beer Cup (WBC), often called the "Olympics of Beer," and the Brewing Industry International Awards (BIIA), known as the "Oscars of Beer." The brewery’s beer is unfiltered, preserving the yeast for a rich and flavorful taste, which is also believed to have health and beauty benefits. Minoh Beer offers a variety of options, including Weizen, Stout, and Pale Ale, as well as unique craft beers infused with local specialties such as yuzu and sansho pepper.

Just a two-minute walk from the Minoh Beer Brewery, the "Minoh Beer Warehouse" serves freshly brewed beer in a lively setting. The venue also offers a selection of delicious side dishes, making it a perfect stop for those exploring Minoh’s famous waterfall. Refreshing yourself with a cold Minoh Beer after a scenic walk through nature is an experience that will rejuvenate both body and mind.

5. Minoo Park Insectarium

The Minoo Park Insectarium is a museum dedicated to showcasing various insects and has been open since 1953. Located within the lush, green Meiji no Mori Minoo Quasi-National Park, the insectarium introduces the diverse species inhabiting the Minoo forest and provides insights into insect ecology. The exhibits are organized by theme, allowing visitors to explore different aspects of insect life, such as insect species, habitats, communication, and classification. Additionally, highlights include a butterfly garden, a specimen exhibition, and a display of live insects.

One of the must-visit attractions is the butterfly garden, where butterflies flutter throughout the year. The museum also features exhibits on stag beetles and rhinoceros beetles from around the world, as well as an interactive beehive display, offering visitors an engaging way to learn about insects. There are also quiz corners and sections showcasing the wonders of the insect world, ensuring a fun and educational experience for all ages.

◎Summary

From nature and food to temples and cultural attractions, we have introduced some of the best sightseeing spots in Minoo City. However, there is still so much more to explore! Before heading home, why not relax at the "Momiji Foot Bath" inside Minoo Station and soothe your tired feet? If time allows, make the most of your trip by discovering even more hidden gems in Minoo!

Search

Customer Support

Beyond Minoh Waterfall! 5 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Minoh City