Kobe is home to one of Japan’s top three night views, often called the “10 Million Dollar Night View.” From the sparkling lights of downtown Kobe and the shimmering Kobe Port to the vast expanse of Osaka Bay in the distance, the scenery is truly breathtaking. These unforgettable views are especially popular among couples looking for a romantic getaway.

This guide introduces some of the best spots to enjoy Kobe’s legendary nightscape and everything you need to make the most of your visit.

Reaching Mt. Rokko is easy with a combination of train, bus, and the scenic Rokko Cable Car. It takes less than an hour from Osaka, making it a perfect evening trip. Once you reach the base of the mountain, hop on the Rokko Cable Car and you’ll arrive at the top in just 10 minutes. The ride itself is part of the experience—watch as the view opens up dramatically with every passing moment.

From Kobe to Mt. Rokko

Take the Hankyu Kobe Line from Kobe-sannomiya Station and get off at Rokko Station, or take the Hanshin Main Line and get off at Mikage Station. Then transfer to a Kobe City Bus and ride to Rokko Cable Shita Station.

Travel time: Approx. 30–50 minutes

From Osaka to Mt. Rokko

Take the Hankyu Kobe Line from Osaka-Umeda Station and get off at Rokko Station, or take the Hanshin Main Line and get off at Mikage Station. Then transfer to a Kobe City Bus and ride to Rokko Cable Shita Station.

Travel time: Approx. 50 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes

Ride the Rokko Cable Car to the Summit

From Rokko Cable Shita Station, board the Rokko Cable Car and in about 10 minutes, you’ll arrive at Rokko Sanjo Station at the summit. This is the gateway to Mt. Rokko’s top attractions. From there, transfer to the Mt. Rokko Sanjo Bus to reach popular spots like Rokko Garden Terrace and various restaurants and cafés.

The Rokko Cable Car offers a unique experience with its open-window design, which is very uncommon in Japan. Feel the fresh mountain air and enjoy the ever-changing scenery of the four seasons, making the ride itself feel like an outdoor attraction.

Rokko Garden Terrace is one of Mt. Rokko’s most iconic viewpoints, offering sweeping views and a range of things to enjoy—from dining and shopping to art installations. During the day, you can see as far as the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, the Osaka Plain, and even Kansai International Airport. But when night falls, the famous “10 Million Dollar Night View” unfolds beneath you in all its glittering beauty.

The terrace features multiple observation spots scattered throughout the area, allowing you to take in the night scenery from a variety of angles.

〈Access from the Summit〉

Take the Mt. Rokko Sanjo Bus (Route 1) from Rokko Cable Sanjo Station and get off at Rokko Garden Terrace.

Travel time: Approx. 10 minutes

Rokko-Shidare Observatory

Perched at an altitude of around 880 meters, the Rokko-Shidare Observatory is a must-visit landmark on Mt. Rokko, blending nature, art, and panoramic scenery into one unforgettable experience.

This striking cypress wood dome resembles a massive work of art rising from the mountaintop—and it’s just as stunning on the inside.

At night, the view transforms into the dazzling “10 Million Dollar Night View,” with city lights spreading out as far as the eye can see. Inside, you’ll also find interactive art installations like bubbles, slides, and swings—fun for both kids and adults alike.

Miharashi Terrace

Take a seat on the stepped Miharashi Terrace and enjoy a moment of peace while soaking in the scenery. During the day, you’ll find wide-open views stretching across the region, while at night, the city lights create a magical atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the view at your own pace.

Miharashi Tower
Inspired by old European architecture, the 11-meter-tall Miharashi Tower is a charming lookout spot with a spiral staircase leading to the top. Once you reach the summit, a breathtaking 360° panorama unfolds before your eyes. It’s one of the best places on Mt. Rokko to snap that unforgettable night view photo—so don’t forget your camera!

Miharashi Deck

From the Miharashi Deck, you can enjoy sweeping views all the way to Osaka. On clear days, use the telescope to spot Hanshin Koshien Stadium, home of the beloved Hanshin Tigers baseball team.

Don’t miss the chance to try “kawarake-nage,” a traditional Japanese activity where you toss small clay discs while making a wish—often for good luck or protection. Challenge your friends to see who can throw theirs the farthest!

*Kawarake discs can be purchased at the nearby Rokko Souvenir Shop (5 discs for ¥100).

Tenrandai Observatory is one of the most conveniently located night view spots on Mt. Rokko—directly connected to Rokko Cable Sanjo Station. The spacious viewing area invites you to take a leisurely stroll while soaking in the crisp mountain air. Telescopes are available to help you appreciate the view in even greater detail. As you gaze out over the glittering city lights, you’ll find yourself leaving everyday life behind.

〈Access from the Summit〉

Right next to Rokko Cable Sanjo Station.

Located on the western side of Mt. Rokko’s highest peak, Mt. Maya is home to one of the area’s best night view spots—Kikuseidai Observatory. While Rokko Garden Terrace and Tenrandai offer expansive panoramic views, Kikuseidai lets you experience Kobe’s city lights up close, making it especially atmospheric.

You can also reach Kikuseidai from Mt. Rokko summit area by taking the Rokko Sanjo Bus (Route 2), with a travel time of approximately 20 minutes.

Within Rokko Garden Terrace, you’ll find a variety of unique food courts and cafés, each offering its own special charm. Enjoy a luxurious meal while taking in Kobe’s dazzling night view from this exceptional location.

Rokko Genghis Khan Palace

Genghis Khan-style grilled lamb and vegetables—a long-time local specialty of Mt. Rokko—is both healthy and hearty. The restaurant’s warm, wooden interior creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for couples or groups to enjoy a fun, lively meal together.

Recommended: Fresh lamb that’s never been frozen during distribution. It’s tender, juicy, and has minimal gamey flavor—definitely worth trying!

Rokko View Palace

This casual, open-air food court offers stunning views along with a wide menu of dishes like curry and ramen. It’s a great option for families with kids and ideal for relaxed dining. At night, enjoy your meal while gazing at the illuminated cityscape.

Granite Café

Modern yet calm, Granite Café offers a serene setting where you can unwind while taking in the glittering night view through large windows. It’s a perfect spot to share a memorable moment with someone special.

Rokko Souvenir Shop

Conveniently located within Rokko Garden Terrace, this shop is perfect for picking up Kobe- and Hyogo-themed souvenirs. You’ll find original items you can’t get anywhere else, such as “Rokko Natural Mineral Water Cider,” “Rokko Cheesecake,” and “Rokko Mountain Honey” made by local bees. If you’re looking to take home a memorable gift from Mt. Rokko, don’t miss this shop—you’re sure to find something special!

Mt. Rokko is also home to many other attractions worth exploring. At the Rokko Musical Box Museum ＆ Gardens MORINONE, you can relax to the soothing melodies of music boxes while enjoying a peaceful stroll through the adjacent garden.

The Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden offers a chance to admire seasonal alpine plants and immerse yourself in nature.

For those seeking adventure, GREENIA is one of Japan’s largest outdoor athletic parks, where both adults and children can enjoy a full-scale outdoor experience.

▼For more details▼

Enjoy “sound” in the great outdoors Rokko Musical Box Museum & Garden MORINONE

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

Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden

▼Check here for more about Mt Rokko’s charm▼

Leisure Spot Mt. Rokko

While Mt. Rokko is delightful during the day, it truly shines at night—literally. With breathtaking night views that resemble a glittering carpet of lights, the area transforms into a romantic wonderland. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a loved one, a nighttime visit to Mt. Rokko promises unforgettable memories. Be sure to make it part of your Kobe itinerary!