One of the largest athletic facilities in Japan, Mount Rokko Adventure Kingdom GREENIA Report!

Mount Rokko Adventure Kingdom GREENIA , created in 2021, is one of the largest athletic facilities in Japan, located on a vast site of approximately 230,000 square meters. The highlight of the event will be athletic activities supervised by popular video creator “Fishers”! Please refer to the following detailed information when visiting the event. If you take the train, Hanshin Main Line Mikage Station or Hankyu Kobe Line Rokko Station are the nearest stations to “Mount Rokko Adventure Kingdom GREENIA”. From each station, take the Kobe City Bus, Rokko Cable Car, or Rokko Sanjo Bus. １　Get off at Hanshin Main Line Mikage Station or Hankyu Kobe Line Rokko Station and take the Kobe City Bus No. 16 bound for Rokko Cable Shita. ２　Ride to the end of the line and then take the Rokko Cable Car. (about 10 minutes) Click here for timetable ３　Get off the Rokko Cable and go to the left when you exit the station. Let’s take the Rokko Sanjo Bus to “Athletic Park mae” Click here for timetable “Mountains, sky, and water. An adventure kingdom where everything is a stage” is the theme of Mount Rokko Adventure Kingdom GREENIA, which is set on land, in the air, and on the water. The fees are as follows. 〇Mount Rokko Adventure Kingdom GREENIA Unlimited play in 5 areas with up to 125 athletic points Adult: 3,000 yen Student discount: 2,500 yen (student ID required) Elementary school student: 2,000 yen 4-6 years old: 1,500 yen 0-3 years old: Free There is also a special “Rokkosan Athletic Coupon” that includes admission to the Mount Rokko Adventure Kingdom GREENIA and a train ticket. For more information, click here. →Hankyu version← →Hanshin version← Mount Rokko Adventure Kingdom GREENIA is an athletic course, comfortable clothing and athletic shoes are a must. A small backpack or waist pouch is recommended. Also, bring a towel and water. Since there are many athletic activities that require the use of hands, such as ladder, rope, etc., it would be better to have gloves. Also, since the Mount Rokko Adventure Kingdom GREENIA is located on the mountain, be sure to take all possible measures to protect yourself from sunburn. A change of clothes is also required for those who want to enjoy dynamic water athletics. 〇Variety athletic yahhoy 〇Water athletic wonder amembo 〇Muscle Athletic de kairiki It will vary depending on the area and the approach, but each area should take about one hour. If you want to conquer all of them, or if you want to experience your favorites over and over again, we recommend that you go first thing in the morning, as there are no nighttime activities. All athletic activities are leveled, and there are four levels in total. Level 1　Easy: Recommended for preschoolers! Level 2　Usually: Challenges from elementary school students are OK! Level 3　Difficult: For adults and people with physical strength! Level 4　Very difficult: Be careful even for adults! Please note that some areas have height restrictions. Yahhoy has many athletic activities with a strong game element. With 30 points of interest, the most photo-worthy athletics are in this area. Another feature of this area is that many of the difficulty levels are easy. People who are not confident in their physical strength and children will have the most fun in this area. Gorogoro drum migration　Lv2 Walk well on the rolling drum! Super pipe slider　Lv4 Let’s swing our bodies and swing our arm strength to advance. Dive into the game　Lv2 Dive into the world of the chase between the thief and the policeman, the best photo spot in GREENIA. At the top of the sled cover　Lv4 The warped wall is taller than the height of an adult. There are large and small 3.6m and 2.6m walls. Double ball slider　Lv2 A slider that rides on a ball. Slope Shoot Level 2 One of the three major playground equipments in Yahhoy area. Try to shoot the 12 panels on the slope. de kairiki offers a variety of athletic activities that require muscle and arm strength. 20 points, many of which are difficult. Climb the spiral staircase　Lv2 Climb the spiral staircase. Cross the ball　Lv1 Balls that spin around when ridden. Stilts floating in the air　Lv3 Stilts in the air, how to move them? Crossing the wobbly scaffolding　Lv1 The foothold is swaying unsteadily. If you turn your head to the side, it looks like a swing. At the top of a big fort　Lv4 A wooden fort overlooking the park; at Lv4, use the rope in the center to climb (climbing only). Super ring action　Lv4 Arm strength athleticism that requires different movements on the left and right sides. Wonder amenbo is an athletic facility built on water. Be careful not to fall into the pond, but don’t worry, there are detours available. Due to age and height restrictions, this area is not open to elementary school students and those under 110 cm. Transparent! Super Spider Walk　Lv4 This is an athletic activity in which visitors move with their arms and legs against the wall on either side. The level of difficulty is one of the top five most difficult in the park. An infinite ring that sways　Lv2 Let’s cross the countless rings suspended in the air. Giant net wall　Lv2 Numerous clear routes exist on the large net wall. Puka Puka Island　Lv3 Let’s cross the unstable little island. Before the raft sinks　Lv3 Rafts that sink when you get on them take you to the other side of the river. Cross quickly. Water tightrope walking　Lv3 Tightrope walking on a rope affixed above the water. Run! Super jump　Lv4 Run through the scaffolds that appear alternately on the left and right. There are many athletic facilities in Mount Rokko Adventure Kingdom GREENIA, in addition to the ones we have introduced. There are many that require power and agility, and there are many points of interest, so it would be quite difficult to visit them all in one day. If you want to enjoy yourself without any difficulty, we recommend that you visit the area more than once. wonder yamambo area has a total of 40 points. This area is geared toward young children in Levels 1 or 2 and is sure to be fun for the whole family! New RPG (role-playing game) themed athletic area “Mt.Kingdom” area will be launched on July 19, 2025! Under the supervision of popular video creator “Fishers”, this new 31-point area combines the elements of RPGs (role-playing games), such as storytelling, the extraordinary, game-like atmosphere, and a sense of accomplishment, with the realistic experience of physical exercise in athletic activities. The temperature on Mt. Rokko is said to be about 5 degrees lower than that of the city, making it comfortable not only in spring and fall, but also in summer. Please enjoy an active holiday in the vast nature.

[2025] The best time to see flowers is from April to May! 12 spots to enjoy spring flowers in Kansai (Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe area)!

Spring is the season when all the plants and flowers that have been sleeping begin to move at once. Why don’t you go out to see colorful plants and flowers that give you a warm spring feeling? Here are some spots where you can enjoy flowers and plants in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe.   -INDEX- [Nemophila] Osaka Maishima Seaside Park, Osaka [Nemophila]Kobe Agri Park “Nemophila Hill 2025”, Kobe [Poppy] Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, Osaka [Aomomiji] Minoh Park, Osaka [Yamabuki] Matsuo-taisha Shrine, Kyoto [Kirishima Azalea] Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine, Kyoto [Peony] Otokunidera, Kyoto [Water Lily] Ryoanji Temple, Kyoto [Wisteria flowers] Nakayamadera, Takarazuka [Azalea] Sorakuen Garden, Kobe [Rose] Aramaki Rose Park, Itami [Japanese Primrose]Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, Kobe Nemophila is a small, lovely flower of clear blue. It is a popular flower in recent years because of its spectacular view of the whole area spreading out like a blue carpet.   About 1 million nemophila plants will be in full bloom in the 44,000 m2 Osaka Maishima Seaside Park, located along the sea with a view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. On Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays, the opening hours are extended so that visitors can enjoy the orange flowers and the setting sun over the nemophila fields. There will also be limited edition gourmet foods available only at Osaka Maishima Seaside Park. The most popular item is the soft-serve ice cream, which is a lovely pale blue color like the nemophila flowers. It is recommended to take a picture of the soft-serve ice cream with the nemophila field in the background. The “Kitchen Car Fest in Maishima” will be held at the same time in the park. About 15 kitchen cars from all over Japan will gather to offer visitors the opportunity to taste a variety of Japanese gourmet foods. There is also an area in the park where visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms and tulips with nemophila, so if you are coming to Japan in spring, be sure to visit Osaka Maishima Seaside Park.   Nemophila Festival: 2025 has been cancelled due to the Osaka-Kansai Expo, and will be held again in 2026. Usual viewing time: early April to early May   A new spot in Kobe, Kobe Agri Park “Nemophila Hill 2025” with approximately one million nemophila flowers in full bloom is now open! Held from April to May, when nemophila are at their best, the harmony of the hills covered in blue nemophila and the clear blue sky is a panorama you will want to capture in your photographs. The park is situated on a small hill, from the top of which you can see the mountains of Kobe. Kobe Agri Park also has restaurants, barbecue facilities, a winery, a ceramics museum, and other facilities, allowing visitors to enjoy “food” and “agriculture” in various ways along with the nemophilas. Nemophila Hill 2025: Saturday, April 12 – Sunday, May 11, 2025 Usual viewing time: late April to early May Poppy is a member of the poppy family that has long been cultivated for ornamental and medicinal purposes. The seeds are also used in cooking. The Expo ’70 Park’s Shizen Bunka-en (Nature Park) and Hana-no-oka (Flower Hill) are decorated with approximately 380,000 poppies. The contrast of colors between the yellow and orange poppies and the fresh blue nemophila can also be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: early April to early May Aomomiji refers to the leaves of maple trees that turn from young leaves in spring to increasingly darker green. You can enjoy the fresh and crisp leaves of ao-momiji until they turn red in the fall. Minoh Park is famous for its autumn leaves, but it is also very beautiful in the fresh green season. Enjoy forest bathing surrounded by the sparkling green maples in the sunlight while listening to the murmuring of a mountain stream and the chirping of wild birds.   Usual viewing time: Late April to late May ▼Check this article▼ 8 recommended gourmet restaurants in Minoh Waterfall! Cafes & Shops to stop by for sightseeing Note on how to get to Minoh Waterfall! Points that international travelers should know before going there Yamabuki is a deciduous shrub in the rose family with beautiful, almost orange-yellow flowers. The flower has been familiar to the Japanese people since ancient times.   Matsuo-taisha Shrine, known as a place of famous water, has about 3,000 yamabuki trees, which turn the shrine grounds yellow. The Yamabuki Festival is held every year when the flowers are at their best.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May It is very familiar in Japan and is often planted as a roadside tree or garden tree. It is loved by many people for its very vivid flowers.   Vivid Kirishima azaleas are in full bloom at Hachijogaike Pond at Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine. The crimson-tinged path surrounded by azalea plantings more than 2 meters high is magnificent.   Usual viewing time: Late April – early May The peony is a plant that symbolizes beauty and has long been used as a design for crafts and paintings. It produces beautiful and large flowers like roses.   There are 2,000 peony plants of about 30 varieties at Otokunidera Temple. Protected by white Japanese umbrellas for sun protection, the bright pink and red buttons bloom in large profusion.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May Water lilies are striking aquatic plants with flowers that seem to float above the water. It is widely distributed in ponds and swamps.   Kyoyoike Pond at Ryoanji Temple, a World Heritage site, is famous for its water lilies. Not only white but also red and pink flowers cover most of the pond. The flowers often open in the morning and close at noon, so the best time to see them is in the morning.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to late August The Japanese Wisteria flowers is a species endemic to Japan and is mentioned in the Manyoshu(Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves, refers to the extensive collection of poems compiled during the Nara period in Japan). The long, hairpin-like flowers hang down in a drooping manner. Purple flowers are common, but white and pink flowers also exist. At Nakayama-dera Temple’s Star Plaza, there is a magnificent wisteria trellis that stretches about 80 meters. The rows of white wisteria flowers look like “clouds floating in a blue sky. The sweet fragrance of the flowers can also be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: Mid-April to late April ▼Check this article▼ 7 Best Spots for Wisteria Flowers in Kansai: The Spring filled with purple flowers Sorakuen garden is Kobe City’s only Japanese garden, covering an expansive area of approximately 20,000 square meters, where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the seasons. In early summer, approximately 4,000 brightly colored white and pink azaleas fill the garden. Every spring, an event called “Tsutsuji Yuusan” is held, during which important cultural properties are opened to the public, musical concerts, tea ceremonies, and other events can be enjoyed.   Usual viewing time: Late April – early May Roses have long been cultivated for perfumery and medicinal purposes.” It is said to be “the flower that symbolizes love,” and is often used in arrangements and bouquets because of its gorgeous appearance and wide variety of types and colors.   At Aramaki Rose Park in Itami, approximately 10,000 roses bloom in a stylish southern European-style garden. The view of the park, with its sloping terrain and colorful colors, is a must-see.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to mid-June Japanese Primrose is the largest member of the primrose family, with flower stalks that can reach 80 cm in length. It grows in clusters in wetlands at the foot of mountains.   At the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, numerous alpine plants bloom from May to June. The 5,000 or so Japanese Primrose that fill the wetlands are especially breathtaking.   Usual viewing time: Mid-May to late May ▼Check this article▼ Mt.Rokko, Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Perfect Panoramic Views and Outdoor Adventure Park! The colorful flowers that bloom in spring are a source of comfort and relaxation for those who see them. Why don’t you take advantage of the warm, sunny weather and visit some of the best places and spots for flowers in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe?

8 Must-Visit Shrines in Kobe: Perfect to Pair with Nearby Attractions

Surrounded by mountains and the sea, Kobe in Hyogo Prefecture has long thrived as an international port city. This rich cultural background is reflected in its unique and diverse shrines. From matchmaking and business prosperity to victory prayers, each shrine offers different blessings. Whether nestled in the mountains or located in the city center, each shrine has its own distinctive atmosphere. Be sure to enjoy not only the spiritual experience but also the natural beauty and history of Kobe as you go shrine-hopping.   Index Top 3 Shrines in Kobe | Power Spot for Love and Marriage: Ikuta Shrine Top 3 Shrines in Kobe | Honoring One of Japan’s Proud Military Heroes: Minatogawa Shrine Top 3 Shrines in Kobe | A Historic Shrine with Cute Stingray Ema: Nagata Shrine A Shrine Above the City with a Spectacular View: Kitano Tenman Shrine Western-Style Elegance in Kobe: Sannomiya Shrine Kobe’s Shrine of Victory Visited by Soccer Players and Fans: Yuzuruha Shrine Take a Short Trip from Kobe! Shrine of Prosperity in Business: Nishinomiya Shrine A Bit Beyond Kobe—Facing the Sea: Uozumi Sumiyoshi Shrine Located in Sannomiya, Kobe’s busiest downtown area, Ikuta Shrine is one of the city’s oldest, with a history spanning over 1,800 years. Alongside Minatogawa Shrine and Nagata Shrine, it is considered one of the “Three Great Shrines of Kobe,” and many locals make it a tradition to visit all three for hatsumode (New Year’s shrine visits). On the north side of the shrine grounds lies the lush “Ikuta Forest,” filled with trees that are hundreds of years old. It’s a serene, refreshing space that feels completely detached from the city’s bustle. Placing your hand on one of the large tree trunks to feel its energy is a recommended experience. The shrine’s main deity, Wakahirume-no-Mikoto, is associated with weaving, and by extension, the weaving together of good relationships. This makes the shrine especially popular for love and matchmaking blessings. Ikuta Shrine offers a variety of charms, but one of the most beloved is the “Water Fortune Slip (Mizu-mikuji).” When dipped into the sacred water of “Kinryūsen” in the forest, hidden words appear on the slip, which is a magical experience said to be highly accurate.  If you’re harboring secret feelings for someone, don’t miss it! You’ll also find adorable heart-shaped ema (wooden votive plaques) for your wishes. Established in 1872, Minatogawa Shrine is one of Kobe’s most iconic shrines, drawing over a million visitors for hatsumode each year. It’s known for a wide range of blessings, including good fortune, family safety, traffic safety, academic success, and protection from misfortune. The shrine enshrines Kusunoki Masashige, a legendary warrior known for his loyalty and sense of justice, affectionately known by locals as “Nanko-san.”   The spacious grounds—over 7,600 tsubo (roughly 25,000 square meters)—are filled with greenery, offering a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. As you pass through the prominent stone lanterns at the front gate and walk down the main path, you’ll come upon the main hall. Look up at the ceiling and you’ll be captivated by the 164 beautifully painted panels donated by renowned artists from across Japan. Among them, the “Great Azure Dragon” by Fukuda Baisen, an artist born in Hyogo Prefecture, is especially breathtaking. Take your time to admire the artistry that captures the essence of Japanese beauty. Also within the shrine grounds is Kusumoto Inari Shrine, said to offer blessings for business prosperity and bountiful harvests. Its row of vibrant red torii gates makes it not only spiritually significant but also a great photo spot! Nagata Shrine, dedicated to the deity Kotoshironushi-no-Okami—the guardian of commerce and industry—boasts a history of over 1,800 years. The shrine is believed to bestow blessings of business prosperity, happiness, good fortune, and protection from misfortune. As Kotoshironushi-no-Okami is said to have the power to foresee the future, the shrine also performs memorial services for old eyeglasses—an unusual yet meaningful tradition.   Within the grounds, you’ll find Kusunomiya Inari Shrine, known for its charming ema (votive plaques) featuring illustrations of fish and red stingrays. According to local legend, after a typhoon caused a nearby river to overflow, a red stingray found its way into the shrine’s grounds. It’s believed that the sacred 800-year-old camphor tree towering behind the shrine is now home to the spirit of that stingray. Offering one of these ema is said to help cure swelling ailments, especially hemorrhoids.   Nagata Shrine is also renowned for its February Setsubun Festival and the traditional Oni-Shinji Ritual. Unlike typical Setsubun festivals where beans are scattered to drive away demons, here the “oni” (demons) are seen as divine messengers and are warmly welcomed. During the event, seven costumed “oni” perform a dance on a stage set within the shrine grounds, purifying the area of misfortune. If your visit coincides with this rare and heartwarming ritual, it’s a chance to meet a “good demon”—an experience not to be missed! Nestled in the charming and exotic Kitano Ijinkan district, Kitano Tenman Shrine was founded in 1180 by enshrining Kyoto’s Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. This historic shrine gave the area its name and is deeply connected to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of scholarship. Students and exam-takers flock here year-round to pray for academic success. The shrine also offers stunning panoramic views. Located at the top of Kitanozaka slope, it overlooks the picturesque Kitano district and, on clear days, even Kobe Port. But it’s not just students who visit—Kitano Tenman Shrine is also known as a romantic power spot. A beloved ritual here is the “Wish-Carp” (Kanai Koi). By pouring water over a statue of a carp at the chozuya (purification fountain) while making a wish, it’s believed your romantic dreams will come true. You can double your luck by writing your wishes on the adorable pink paper-mâché Koi-Koi charms, shaped like little carp, and offering them at the shrine. Other fun and unique experiences include the “Sensu Mikuji”, a mini folding fan containing your fortune, and the quirky “Ishihara Hiroko Love Mikuji”, a collaboration with a contemporary Japanese artist. These creative takes on traditional omikuji (fortune slips) make the shrine a delightful stop whether you’re seeking love, academic success, or simply an unforgettable memory. Sannomiya Shrine, dedicated to the sea goddess Tachibana Hime no Mikoto, has long been revered by the people of Kobe as a guardian of maritime safety and commerce. Located in what is now central Kobe, this shrine has been deeply connected to the city’s identity as a port town since ancient times. One of the most notable historical episodes associated with Sannomiya Shrine is the Kobe Incident of 1868. Shortly after the opening of the port, a conflict broke out between foreign soldiers and samurai from Okayama Prefecture, escalating into a skirmish involving gunfire and naval ships. The incident took place on the grounds of Sannomiya Shrine, and remnants of this moment in history can still be seen today. A cannon from the same era is also on display, offering a rare chance to explore the international tensions and dramatic moments that shaped Kobe’s early modern history. Adding to the shrine’s unique charm is a stained-glass window behind the purification fountain—a rare sight in Shinto architecture. Its elegant, Western-style design is yet another example of Kobe’s fusion of tradition and cosmopolitan flair. Sannomiya Shrine is also part of the Kobe Eight Shrine Pilgrimage, which includes shrines numbered one through eight across the city. While traditionally done on Setsubun Day to ward off evil and bring good fortune, you can embark on this spiritual journey anytime. Be sure to bring a goshuincho (stamp book), as each of the eight shrines offers a special seal to commemorate your visit. It’s a meaningful way to connect with Kobe’s heritage—both spiritually and culturally—while enjoying the city’s diverse landscapes. Yuzuruha Shrine is a historic shrine that enshrines Kumano Okami, a deity associated with protection and victory. Its symbol, the Yatagarasu—a mythical three-legged crow said to lead people to success—makes this shrine especially popular for those seeking to pray for victory or triumph in personal endeavors. Located in Mikage, the birthplace of Japan’s first soccer team, Yuzuruha Shrine has a special connection to the sport. Interestingly, the Japan Football Association also uses the Yatagarasu as its emblem, adding a layer of spiritual significance. Within the shrine grounds, you’ll find a stone soccer ball monument made of Mikage-ishi, the locally sourced granite that gives the area its name. You can also pick up soccer-themed ema (votive plaques) and charms, making this a must-visit for soccer fans. Don’t miss the intriguing “Chikaraishi” (power stones)—massive stones once used in feats of strength from the Edo to Meiji periods. The stones bear inscriptions detailing their weight and the names of those who lifted them. You’ll likely find yourself wondering, “Did someone really lift this?” Another unique feature is the Tamaharai purification ritual. You blow your breath onto a sacred stone called Saitama, transferring your misfortunes to it. Then, you throw it against a harae-ishi (purification stone) to cast away bad luck. This cathartic ritual is said to leave you feeling refreshed and renewed—definitely worth a try during your visit. About 15 minutes from Kobe Sannomiya by Hanshin Railway, you’ll find Nishinomiya Shrine, famous for bringing good fortune in business and wealth. Passing through the gate, you’ll walk along a long 230-meter approach that leads to a vividly vermilion worship hall radiating a solemn atmosphere. Behind it stands the main hall, built in the rare Sangen Kasuga-zukuri architectural style, found only in a few places across Japan. Start by offering your prayers here, then take a leisurely stroll through the grounds, where seasonal flowers and plants bloom throughout the year. Take a relaxing break at Okame Chaya, where you can enjoy a warm cup of amazake (sweet rice drink). You can also try your luck with a unique omikuji that contains a “Daifuku” fortune—considered even luckier than a “Daikichi” (great blessing)!   While Nishinomiya Shrine hosts various festivals throughout the year, the most famous is Tōka Ebisu in January, the largest festival in the Hanshin area for praying for business prosperity. In July, the summer festival Natsu Ebisu takes place over four days, during which the shrine grounds are beautifully lit up at night, offering a completely different atmosphere from the daytime.   The area surrounding Nishinomiya Shrine is also home to top sake-producing districts like Nadagogo and the iconic Hanshin Koshien Stadium. Be sure to explore these local highlights as well.   ▼Check this article▼ Nishinomiya 1 Day Itinerary｜Savor Sake in Nadagogo and Explore Hanshin Koshien Stadium Located in a coastal town in Akashi City, next to Kobe, Uozumi Sumiyoshi Shrine is a historic shrine founded in the year 464 and is known as a guardian of sea routes.   Although it is a bit removed from the center of Kobe, it offers breathtaking scenic views like this. Known as “Meisho Nishikigaura,” the area offers a stunning view—during the day, the calm sea stretches out beyond the torii gate, while at sunset, the combination of the setting sun in the west, pine trees, and stone lanterns creates a scene that looks like a painting.   In late April, the shrine’s sacred wisteria tree blooms, and its flower clusters sway gracefully in the gentle sea breeze. Around June, hydrangeas color the shrine grounds. A visit to a shrine isn’t just about offering prayers—simply spending time in the peaceful grounds can mysteriously fill you with renewed energy. When you go, don’t forget to show gratitude to the deities and be mindful of proper etiquette. May your shrine visits bring you moments of healing and serenity. “Enjoy! OSAKA KYOTO KOBE,” shares sightseeing information for international visitors to Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto. You’ll also find articles packed with must-see spots and gourmet recommendations in Kobe. Be sure to check them out and make the most of your trip!   ▼Check this article▼ First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course 10 BEST Museums and Art Galleries in Kobe 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy the fashionable port city, Kobe [2025] Top 12 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kobe for Parents and Children to Enjoy!

7 Best Spots for Wisteria Flowers in Kansai: The Spring filled with purple flowers

Spring in Japan is the season of flowers! Many people may think of cherry blossoms when they think of spring flowers in Japan, but wisteria flowers is a spring flower that is familiar to Japanese people and has even been written about in waka poems. The best time to see isteria flowers is after the cherry blossoms have fallen. Even after the cherry blossoms are over, there are still some Japanese landscapes that we would like visitors to see!   *Admission and worship fees are required to view some spots. For details, please check the official website of each spot.   -INDEX- [Osaka, Fukushima-ku] Shimofukushima Park, etc. [Osaka, Higashisumiyoshi] Nagai botanical garden [Tamba-shi, Hyogo] Byakugou-ji Temple [Takarazuka-shi, Hyogo] Nakayamadera Temple [Kyoto,Uji] Byodoin Temple [Kyoto, Fushimi] Jounangu [Nara] Kasuga Taisha Shrine Wisteria flowers can be seen even in urban centers. The Fukushima-ku and Noda area, near the Umeda area of Osaka, has been known as a famous place for Fuji trees for about 600 years. This is also where the standard Japanese name for the wisteria flowers(Fuji) is “nodafuji”.   Noda’s wisteria flowers were almost completely wiped out in an air raid during World War II, but have now been restored thanks to the efforts of local residents. The flowers bloom every year at 29 locations in the ward, including parks and public facilities.   In particular, Shimofukushima Park has the largest number of wisteria trellises in the ward and is worth seeing. The plaza in front of Hanshin Noda Station is also picturesque, with its fantastic contrast between the purple hues of the wisteria flowers and the urban landscape.   Usual viewing time: mid-April   The collaboration of blue and light purple flowers at “Nagai Botanical Garden” looks great in photographs. Nemophila, a popular spring flower in Japan in recent years, blooms all over the Life Garden, which covers an area of about 2,000 square meters. Next to it, in mid-April, nodafuji (wisteria flower) blooms with light purple flowers, making this a spot where visitors can see all the popular flowers at once.   The Nagai Botanical Garden is only one subway train ride away from Umeda, Shinsaibashi, and Namba. It is easily accessible from the center of the city, and visitors can encounter a wide variety of plants, trees, and flowers throughout the year. The permanent nighttime outdoor museum “Team Lab Botanical Garden Osaka” is also popular!   ▼For more information, click here.▼ Highlights and things to do at teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka   Usual viewing time: mid-April (Nemophila: mid-April to early May) There is no one who is not moved by the sight of the wisteria at Byakugou-ji Temple! It takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes from Osaka Station to Byakugou-ji Temple by train and cab, but the scenery is so spectacular that it will leave you speechless. The previous chief priest planted this variety of wisteria flowers about 30 years ago, and the flower clusters are over 1 meter long. The volume of the wisteria trellises is overwhelming, as they are set up in an L-shape over a vast area of 120 meters. The wisteria flowers pour down from overhead like a shower. The Byakugo-ji Temple Kyushaku Fuji Matsuri Festival will be held from April 27 (Sun) to May 6 (Tue, Holiday), 2025, from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. The wisteria light-up runs from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM, but the full effect of the illumination becomes visible after 7:00 PM, creating a scene reminiscent of the aurora flowing across the sky.   * The festival period may change depending on the blooming conditions. Please check the official website for updates.   Usual viewing time: early to mid May Nakayama-dera Temple is famous for its fertility and safe delivery. It is located in Takarazuka, where hot springs spring water gushes out. There is an 80-meter-long wisteria trellis in “Hoshi no Hiroba” in the precincts of the temple, and from mid to late April, the wisteria flowers are in full bloom. Purple wisteria are most commonly seen in Japan, but Nakayama-dera Temple is characterized by its white wisteria. If you visit on a sunny day, they look like clouds floating in a blue sky! The sweet fragrance of the wisteria flowers also wafts through the air.   Usual viewing time: mid to late April Byodoin Phoenix Hall, built in 1053, is a famous landmark depicted on the 10-yen coin, and is a must-see spot if you are visiting Kyoto as a tourist. Byodoin Garden, with its seasonal flowers, together with the Phoenix Hall built on the middle of the pond and the view of the mountains on the other side of the pond, is an image of the Paradise that people envisioned when the temple was built. In spring, the pond is filled with blooming wisteria flowers, which harmonize beautifully with the gorgeous Phoenix Hall. This is truly a paradise-like setting with an elegant Japanese flavor that should not be missed.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May Jonangu is a place where visitors can enjoy seasonal flowers. There are five gardens within the precincts of the temple, and every year the hues of wisteria flowers in the “Muromachi no Niwa” garden, a garden with a circular garden with a pond. In spring, there is much to see, as not only the wisteria flowers but also the Yamabuki and azalea trees on the grounds bloom around the same time. In addition, there is a “wisteria miko kagura” performance (free admission) in which a shrine maiden holding a wisteria branch in her hand and crowned with a cluster of wisteria flowers performs a kagura dance, and if you receive a “wisteria flower charm,” the shrine maiden will purify you with a kagura bell (1,000 yen per charm). This is a spot where visitors can not only admire the flowers, but also enjoy the “experience.   Usual viewing time: Late April Wisteria Miko Kagura: twice a day at 10:00 and 15:00 on May 1-6, 10, 11, 17, 18, 24 and 25, 2025 Kasuga-taisha Shrine is one of Nara’s major tourist attractions with its beautiful shrine pavilions painted in bright vermilion, and is designated as a World Heritage Site. The wisteria flowers is an important flower for Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and is even used in the shrine’s crest. The wisteria flowers grow wild throughout the shrine grounds, and the “Wisteria of Sunazuri” at the Main Sanctuary is known as a famous tree. In addition, about 300 varieties of flowers and plants related to Japan’s oldest anthology of poetry, Manyoshu, are planted in the Manyoshu Botanical Garden, where about 200 wisteria flowers of 20 varieties are grown, allowing visitors to learn about the differences in shape, size, and color of the flowers depending on the variety.   Usual viewing time: mid-April to early May Since ancient times, Japanese people have been sensitive to the changing of the seasons. Don’t you think that the graceful and dignified impression of the wisteria flowers is linked to the Japanese image of harmony? Please visit a spot where you can see the Japanese-style scenery of the wisteria flowers.

Japanese-style Inn Arima Kirari: A Stay with Complimentary Tickets to Taiko-no-Yu Hot Spring

Arima Kirari is a Japanese-style inn located in Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s three oldest hot springs. With exceptional hospitality, stylish Japanese-modern interiors, and newly opened guest rooms in 2024, it offers a comfortable stay.   From its atmosphere and guest rooms to its hot springs and restaurant cuisine, here’s a detailed look at what makes Arima Kirari special.   Index Overview of the Arima Onsen Hotel “Arima Kirari” Unlimited Access to “Taiko-no-Yu” for Arima Kirari Guests How to Get to “Arima Kirari” Check-in and Exploring the Hotel Private Onsen Rooms! A Look Inside “Arima Kirari’s” Guest Rooms A Rare Experience! Enjoying Both Kinsen & Ginsen at “Arima Kirari” Dinner at “Arima Kirari’s” Restaurant Prices and Accommodation Plans at “Arima Kirari” Stay at Arima Kirari and Walk around Arima Onsen Town Arima Kirari has been welcoming guests in Arima Onsen for over 50 years. The hotel underwent a renovation in 2019, featuring a stylish and modern interior.   Arima Onsen is known for its two distinct hot springs: the reddish-brown “Kinsen” (gold bath) and the clear “Ginsen” (silver bath).   At Arima Kirari, guests can enjoy both, a rare offering among accommodations in the Arima area. The hotel features 55 guest rooms, including elegantly designed spaces that offer a comfortable and relaxing stay.   In 2024, new rooms with private baths featuring free-flowing “Ginsen” water opened, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons while soaking in a private onsen. These rooms are highly recommended for those seeking a more intimate hot spring experience. One of the most notable features of Arima Kirari is the unlimited free access to the adjacent hot spring theme park, Taiko no Yu.   Spanning 7,000 square meters, Taiko no Yu is the largest hot spring facility in the Arima Onsen area. It boasts six open-air baths, indoor baths, a lava sauna, a cold air bath, a bedrock bath, a steam bath, and other unique bathing experiences. You can enjoy a variety of bathing experiences in one place, including the open-air herb bath, where seasonal scents like yuzu and lavender, combined with atmospheric lighting, create a relaxing ambiance. Other highlights include the golden spring open-air bath with free-flowing hot spring water, a blended bath of golden and silver springs, a high-concentration carbonated spring, and a rustic cold water bath. If you prefer a more relaxing soak rather than a theme park-like hot spring experience, rest assured. Within Arima Kirari, there is an exclusive, stylish, and modern bathing area reserved for hotel guests. From Kobe Electric Railway Arima-Onsen Station and Hankyu Bus Arima-Onsen Station, it’s about a 10-minute walk to Arima Kirari. However, a free shuttle bus runs 2 to 3 times per hour, making access even more convenient.   The shuttle bus is available not only for check-in and check-out but also during sightseeing, allowing for an efficient exploration of the area. It also stops at the Arima-Onsen Station of the Rokko-Arima Ropeway, providing easy access to the Rokko Mountain area, where visitors can enjoy stunning natural scenery and art installations.   ▶Check the Timetable   ▼Check the article▼ If you are going from Osaka, Kyoto or Kobe to Arima, please refer to the article below. How to Get to Arima Onsen from Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe – A Complete Transportation Guide The entrance of the hotel is where the experience begins. From the moment you arrive at the façade, hotel staff fully attend to you, guiding you seamlessly to the lobby. Once inside, you’ll be welcomed by a spacious and open atmosphere. The lobby’s feature wall showcases a massive ink-wash painting of cherry blossoms by renowned artist Mi Tongyin, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms all year round.   Above, the ceiling space is adorned with Noto cypress umbrellas, filling the air with their refreshing fragrance, while a Bang & Olufsen sound system plays seasonal healing music, heightening the sense of anticipation for an extraordinary stay.   Check-in starts at 3:00 PM. You can leave your luggage at the front desk and head out for a stroll through the Arima Onsen town, but first—let’s explore the hotel!   Let’s start with the welcome lounge. Guests can enjoy complimentary drinks at the welcome lounge, including coffee, tea (black and green), and orange juice. There’s also Yakult, but it’s limited to one bottle per person, which is perfect for a refreshing treat after a relaxing bath. The lounge is open from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, so be sure to stop by during those hours.   Next, near the elevators, you’ll find the yukata selection corner. Female guests can choose from five different yukata designs in various sizes. However, keep in mind that these cannot be taken home! The entire hotel features a cohesive modern interior. The lattice shelves in the lobby and the dry landscape garden along the corridor leading to Taiko-no-Yu add a stylish touch! There is also a souvenir shop, so you don’t have to worry if you forget to buy something. I was guided to the newly renovated 5th-floor room, “Tsuzumi,” which opened in 2024. Spanning 57 square meters, this spacious room can accommodate up to six guests, making it a great option for families looking for a hotel or ryokan in Arima Onsen.   The interior design matches the modern and stylish aesthetic of the entrance. While it features tatami flooring, the seating arrangement includes a table with chairs instead of traditional floor seating, ensuring a comfortable experience without straining your legs. The hallway is equipped with a closet and a coffee machine, allowing you to enjoy a fragrant cup of coffee with just the press of a button. Next is the washroom and bathroom area. The bathtub in the bathroom offers a continuous flow of Ginsen hot spring water! Soaking in a private onsen while enjoying a refreshing view of lush greenery is a true luxury. This is highly recommended for those who prefer a private hot spring experience over a large public bath. Additionally, the washroom is designed for two people to use at the same time, making it convenient for families, as it helps avoid congestion during busy times. Let’s take a look at the exclusive bathing area for hotel guests, which I had the special opportunity to photograph.   Inside the bathhouse, you’ll find two types of Arima’s famous hot springs side by side: Kinsen: A cloudy, reddish-brown water rich in iron and salt. Ginsen: A clear and silky hot spring with a smooth texture. The changing area is also well-maintained, offering a clean and comfortable space to relax before and after your soak. If you’re staying overnight in Arima Onsen, it’s highly recommended to soak in the hot springs, change into a yukata, and enjoy a leisurely hotel dinner.   “Arima Kirari” features an exclusive, stylish, modern Japanese dining space for guests called “Dining Kirari Ichigo Ichie.” Guests head to the restaurant at their pre-selected dinner time, chosen during check-in.   The cuisine here is “Shin-Washoku,” a fusion of traditional Japanese cooking techniques and Western culinary styles. The seasonal menu includes appetizers, sashimi, a main course featuring roasted premium Kuroge Wagyu beef, and a dessert, all made with the finest seasonal ingredients. The presentation of each dish, including the carefully selected tableware, enhances the experience, bringing surprise and delight with every course.   Enjoy the full sensory experience of Kirari’s exquisite cuisine. The plan introduced here is the limited-time “New Guest Room Completion Commemorative Premium Stay Plan,” starting at 50,000 yen per person, including dinner. For a more affordable option, standard rooms with two meals included start at 22,000 yen. Prices vary depending on the season and day of the week, so be sure to check the official website for details. Click here for official accommodation plans Heartfelt hospitality, a modern Japanese interior, the rare chance to enjoy both Kinsen and Ginsen hot springs, and exquisite seasonal cuisine—all make “Arima Kirari” a perfect stay, ensuring cleanliness and comfort.   If you’re interested in exploring the area, check out the articles below for information on strolling through Arima Onsen town, its gourmet scene, the nearby Rokko Mountain area accessible by ropeway, and sightseeing spots in Kobe.   Arima Onsen-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy Hot Springs, Gourmet, and Nature! The 10 best food and sweets in Arima Onsen Town Leisure Spot Mt. Rokko First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course

Arima Onsen-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy Hot Springs, Gourmet, and Nature!

Mt.Rokko, Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Perfect Panoramic Views and Outdoor Adventure Park!

Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy the fashionable port city, Kobe♡

Umeda to Takarazuka -1 Day Trip｜Recommended Spots to Enjoy With Kids Even On a Rainy Day!