KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2026 beyond ｜Review and Sample Itineraries

Kobe Rokko Meets Art is an annual modern art festival that takes place at the top of Mt. Rokko in Kobe every year from late August to late November. This article will tell you how to enjoy the artworks in an efficient and satisfactory way, including how to get to the top of the mountain, what to wear, and some recommended spots.   -INDEX- 1.  About Mt. Rokko in Kobe – Only an hour away from Osaka 2. What is “KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2026 beyond”? 3. How to visit venues on Mt. Rokko of “KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART  2026 beyond” 4. Recommended Clothing and What to Bring of “KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2026 beyond” 5. Recommended artworks and time required for each area of “KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2026 beyond” (1) Rokko Cable（Rokko Cable Shita Sta.・Sanjyo Sta.） (2) Tenran Observatory (3) Hyogo Prefectural Mt. Rokko Visitor Center (Memorial Monument) (4) Rokkosan Silence Resort (Former Rokkosan Hotel) (5) Banno Sanso (6-1) Museum Area Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE, Shinike Pond (6-2) Museum Area Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden (7) Mr.KAIHATSU’s cabin (8) Rokko Garden Terrace Area (9) Rokko-Shidare Observatory (10) Chapel of the Wind Area 6. Model route of “KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2026 beyond” 7. Recommendations for places to eat of “KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2026 beyond” (1) Sora no Dining (Rokkosan Silence Resort) (2) Mori no Cafe (Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE) (3) Cafe Edelweiss (Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden) (4) Rokko View Palace (Rokko Garden Terrace) (5) Rokkosan Genghis Khan Palace (Rokko Garden Terrace) (6) Granite Café (Rokko Garden Terrace) 8. Souvenirs for KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2026 beyond The area of Mt. Rokko includes large and small mountains spanning the cities of Kobe, Ashiya, Nishinomiya, and Takarazuka in southeastern Hyogo Prefecture.The highest peak in this mountain range is Mt. Rokko which rises 931 meters above sea level. Although located near the urban area, Mt. Rokko is rich in nature.    Click here to know more about Mt. Rokko.   Mt.Rokko is conveniently accessible from Kobe Sannomiya and Osaka Umeda area. Get off at either Hankyu Railway Rokko Station, JR Rokko-michi Station, or Hanshin Electric Railway Mikage Station, and take Kobe City Bus No. 16 or 106 from in front of the station to Rokko Cable Shita Station, the entrance to Mt. It takes only 10 minutes to the top of the mountain by Rokko Cable. Rokko is located near Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s “Three Famous Hot Springs.” We recommend that you incorporate a visit to the hot springs.   Arima Onsen is popular not only for its hot springs but also for strolling through the town and sampling the local cuisine! ▼Click here for more details▼ The 10 best food and sweets in Arima Onsen Town “KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART” is a contemporary art festival where visitors can enjoy artworks exhibited on the Rokko Mountain in Kobe while hiking around the mountain.   Date: August 29, 2026 (Sat) – November 29, 2026 (Sun)   Hours: 10:00-17:00 (varies by venue) *No closing day. Only the Rokkosan Silence Resort will be closed on Nov 24 and Mondays between August and November (except when Monday falls on a national holiday, in which case the museum is closed the following day)   Venue: Rokko Musical Box Museum & Garden MORINONE, Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, Rokko Garden Terrace area, Chapel of the Wind area, etc.   If you’d like to visit “Kobe Rokko Meets Art”, be sure to purchase an Art Viewing Passport. If you purchase an Art Viewing Passport, you’ll get better value than buying tickets at each facility individually. While you can purchase the Art Viewing Passport at Shop 737, the Rokko Mountain Tourist Information Center, located inside Rokko Sanjo Station, we recommend taking advantage of the discounted online pre-purchase option.   ≪Day Pass≫ ●Adult (13 years old and older) 3,300 yen ●Child (4 to 12 years old) 1,300 yen *Free for children 3 years old and under   On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from September 19 to November 29, a light-up event called “Hikari no Mori – Night Art Stroll ” will be held at Rokko Musical Box Museum & Garden MORINONE and Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden. Prices with Night Pass are different. *No service from August 29 through September 18.   ≪Day & Night Pass≫ ●Adult (13 years old and older) 4,300 yen ●Child (4 to 12 years old) 1,800 yen   Besides, East-Rokko Round Trip ticket is recommended, which includes both the Rokko Cable and the Rokko Sanjo Bus. Since you will need to get on and off the bus frequently to visit each facility, buying this ticket will allow you to get on and off the bus many times without the need for coins, and the fare is very economical. The ticket can be purchased only at the Rokko Cable Station, so be careful not to forget to buy it.   ≪East-Rokko Round Trip ticket≫ ●Adult (13 years old and older) 2,300 yen ●Child (6 to 12 years old) 1,500 yen The Rokko Sanjo Bus operates between the various facilities on the mountain. Bus schedules are available at each bus stop and on the MAP distributed at the site. Some areas do not have many buses, so we recommend that you check the bus schedule and decide how long you will stay. If you have trouble figuring out bus times, please refer to the model course to get around the area.   While you may use credit cards for Rokko Sanjo Bus, IC cards are not accepted. If you are not comfortable with this, we recommend you purchase a “Rokko Sanjo Bus 1-DAY Ticket”. The ticket can be purchased at the Rokko Cable Sanjo Station.   ●Adult (13 years old and older) 800 yen ●Child (6 to 12 years old) 400 yen If you purchase the “Rokko Mountain Bus 1-Day Ticket”, you can ride as much as you like on the routes marked ① and ③ in the photo. It’s about 5 degrees cooler on Mount Rokko than at the base. While it’s fine during the hot months of August through early September, it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket starting in mid-September. Since mountain weather can change quickly, we recommend wearing layers that are easy to put on and take off. Also, since you’ll be viewing the exhibits in a natural setting, you may encounter bees and other insects. It’s best to avoid wearing black clothing, as bees are attracted to it.   The trail area follows forest roads, and some parts of the facilities include slopes and uneven paths, so please wear comfortable walking shoes such as sneakers. A backpack or similar bag that leaves both hands free is also recommended.   ≪Clothing≫ ・Clothing that’s easy to put on and take off (a light jacket) ・Sneakers   ≪Items to Bring≫ ・Backpack ・Drinks The following is an introduction to the nine venues of Kobe Rokko Meets Art 2026 beyond, among which (6) Museum Area Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE, Shinike Pond and (10) Chapel of the Wind are highly recommended. Taking over the Rokko Cable Lower and Upper Stations in spectacular fashion is NISHIHARA☆Norio×KITAZONO Group ≪Breakout!! My room≫, a collaborative unit formed by sculptor Nishihara☆Norio and the musical sibling duo KITAZONO Group.   On the platform at Rokko Cable Lower Station, visitors can enjoy watching and listening to the opening video for the art festival produced by KITAZONO Group, while three-dimensional works by Nishihara☆Norio are on display at both Rokko Cable Lower Station and Upper Station.   Approximate viewing time: 15 minutes (Possible to enjoy during waiting for the cable car/bus) Three works are on display at the Tenran Observatory. Since there are more works than usual this year, we recommend setting aside a little extra time to view them.   MIYAZAKI Hiroshi≪CELEBRATION / Vanitas of Borrowed Scenery≫ and Jun Nguyen-Hatsushiba≪ A Conversation Between Two Mountains — At the Funeral — Mt. Rokko and Mt. Bà Vì speaking —≫ offer wonderful views of the Kobe cityscape through the artworks. Since the atmosphere of the works changes depending on the weather and time of day on the day you visit, you’ll want to come back again and again. MIYAZAKI Hiroshi≪CELEBRATION / Vanitas of Borrowed Scenery≫ is an installation that expresses the transience and beauty of the ever-changing city and nature. It’s a work that allows visitors to enjoy watching how it evolves over the course of the exhibition. You’re also welcome to sit in the chair and take photos. The indoor installation at Tenran Observatory, titled ≪Gaaaze! Fooocus! Fairy Watching≫ is a work by INOUE Ryo, who writes lyrics, composes music, sings, and creates animations for famous Japanese TV Shows”Biju Tune!”. It’s a song that will stick in your head after just one listen—be sure to go check it out.   Approximate viewing time: 40 minutes Two artworks are on display in this area. At the Hyogo Prefectural Mt. Rokko Visitor Center, you can learn about the origins, history, and flora of Mt. Rokko—all for free—and it’s also a great place to take a break. Plus, from the observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of downtown Kobe and Kobe Airport.   Approximate viewing time: 15 minutes The artwork is displayed in the restaurant “Sora no Dining” across the street from the main building. It is possible to enter the restaurant only to view the artworks, but since this is a special opportunity, we recommend that you dine in the space where the artworks are located.   Approximate viewing time: 25 minutes Banno Sanso is a historic mountain lodge dating back to before World War II, but after many years, it is currently uninhabited. Although the lodge is not normally open to the public, visitors are welcome to explore it. We will be exhibiting two works at “Banno Sanso” and “Banno Sanso Hanare”, vacation homes that offer a glimpse into the history of Mount Rokko. There is no dedicated parking lot, so visitors arriving by car can walk about 5 to 10 minutes from the Memorial Monument Parking Lot. Visitors using the mountain bus will also need to walk from Memorial Monument to reach the site.   Approximate viewing time: 40 minutes At the entrance to the ROKKO Forest Sound Museum—one of the venues in the museum area—is an artwork by YAMAMOTO Shuji≪Visitor Center in Mt.Rokko≫, which also serves as an actual information desk. Staff will be on duty there throughout the exhibition period, so we recommend stopping by here first to get some information before exploring the rest of the exhibition.   At the Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE, 12 artworks are displayed along a walking path that circles the grounds. In the pond just inside the entrance to “SIKI Garden” a cluster of Daisy Balloon ≪Between≫ balloons floats on the water. In addition, the permanent exhibition featuring NARA Yoshitomo Nara≪Peace Head≫ is also very popular. This work conveys the message that “humans, who tend to be arrogant, are part of nature—a greater force”. As you stand before the artwork amidst the natural beauty of Mount Rokko, take a moment to reflect on the fact that we, too, are part of nature.   In the “Outdoor Art Zone” at the back of SIKI Garden, eight artworks are on long-term display, including FUNAI Misa≪Peeking into the forest, The mountain hole.≫ and  Yayoi Kusama〈Pumpkin〉. *Exhibition date varies on different work   In addition, there are plenty of places—such as the hammock area and treehouses—where you can enjoy the natural beauty of Mount Rokko beyond the art installations.   Approximate viewing time: 90 minutes Single ticket: Adult (13 and over) 1,500 yen, Child (4~12 years old) 750 yen Just before entering the ROKKO Forest Sound Museum, at the New Pond next to the parking lot, Shohei Takasaki≪Untitled (August 24, 2026 / A Circle)≫ is on display.   The work features 365 figures depicted on a panel measuring 150 meters in total length. When viewed from above, this large-scale piece takes the shape of the infinity symbol (∞), and viewing it from various angles reveals new discoveries. “Since so many different people are depicted, I hope you’ll come back again and again to make new discoveries”, said Mr.Takahashi. Be sure to pay attention to the reflections on the pond as well. *Shinike Pond is one of the venues in Museum Area.   The Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden will serve as another venue in the Museum Area.   As you walk down from the East Entrance and turn left, you’ll find MATSUI Shota≪Stone of “Saidan”≫ on display. Mr.Matsui is an artist who creates three-dimensional works using unprocessed stones collected from mountains and rivers; his pieces—featuring stones suspended in space or floating on water—have a mysterious quality that invites viewers to take a closer look. Don’t miss the works ABE Ayaka≪The Mountain Looks Back Through a Boar’s Crystalline Lens≫ and NORIMATSU Karin≪FLORA OF MIAKNVA≫ on display at Shop Alpicola; they’re well worth seeing.   You may also enjoy the seasonal flowers and plants in the Alpine Botanical Garden as you stroll around the garden.   Approximate viewing time: 50 minutes Single ticket: Adult (13 and over) 900 yen, Child (4~12 years old) 450 yen This is a small hut where artist KAIHATSU Yoshiaki exhibits his work. It is located in front of the GREENIA Adventure Park and is about a 5-minute walk from the Garden Terrace.   Approximate viewing time: 15 minutes The Rokko Garden Terrace area has three restaurants, making it a convenient base for lunch and souvenir shopping.    On the observation terrace—which offers a stunning view stretching not only over Kobe but all the way to Osaka—SHIKATA Kenichi≪Excavated Scenery≫ is on display. Against the backdrop of the panoramic view of Mount Rokkō, one large piece is featured, while a group of smaller works is scattered throughout the area.   Approximate viewing time: 40 minutes You can now use the Passport to enter the Rokko-Shidare Observatory, also known as the “Shidare Museum”. This is the highest-altitude spot on Mount Rokko and was designed by SAMBUICHI Hiroshi. As soon as you enter, you’ll be greeted by KIMURA Takahito≪Wind and Migratory Birds≫. Two works are on display inside. DAITO Masaya≪Whereabouts of the soul≫, created by melting bottles, incorporates Ramune bottles from Kobe and stones from Mount Rokko.     ●Adult (13 years old and older) 1,000 yen ●Child (4 to 12 years old) 500 yen   Approximate viewing time: 15 minutes One of the works you should not miss is TANADA Koji≪Crossing the Bridge Beyond Reach≫ at Tadao Ando’s “Chapel of the Wind”. The Chapel of the Wind is one of a trilogy of chapeles designed by architect Tadao Ando, along with the Chapel of Water and the Chapel of Light. The approach to the building is beautiful. He said he created it not to rival Mr. Ando’s architecture, but so that architecture and sculpture would blend together. There are four artworks on display along the way to the church. Some of them are placed in spots where you have to peer in to see them, so be sure not to miss them. In addition, you can view 10 artworks at the former Rokko Sky Villa nearby.   Inside the church, you will find Takahiro Iwasaki’s Floating Lanterns. Within the solemn atmosphere of the church architecture, he has created delicate structures that look as if they might float lightly into the air.   Approximate viewing time: 90 minutes Finally, for those who have trouble figuring out bus connections, or would like to go but access is a bottleneck, here is a model route on the mountain.   Recommended for first-time visitors to Rokko Meets Art! A tour focusing on “free” artworks <START> 11:40 Departure: Rokko Cable Car Sanjyo Sta. (Rokko Sanjo Bus Route 1) ↓ 11:43 Arrival: Hyogo Prefectural Mt.Rokko Visitor Center（Memorial Monument） ・From the observation terrace, you can enjoy a panoramic view of downtown Kobe and Kobe Airport. ↓ 5-minute walk 11:50  Arrival: Rokko Mountain Silence Resort (formerly Rokko Mountain Hotel) ↓ 5-minute walk 12:43 Departure: Hyogo Prefectural Mt.Rokko Visitor Center（Memorial Monument）(Rokko Mountain Bus Route 1) ↓ 12:49 Arrival: Rokko Garden Terrace ・There are three restaurants here, so we recommend having lunch here. ↓ 14:17 Departure: Rokko Garden Terrace (Rokko Mountain Bus Route 1) ↓ 14:24 Arrival: Rokko Cable Car Sanjyo Sta.   A One-Day Itinerary to Enjoy the Highlights Using Your Passport <START> 11:40 Departure: Rokko Cable Car Sanjyo Sta. (Rokko Mountain Bus Route 1) ↓ 11:49 Arrival: Rokko Garden Terrace ・There are three restaurants here, so we recommend having lunch here. ・Be sure to experience the Rokko-Shidare Observatory! ↓ 13:17  Departure: Rokko Garden Terrace (Rokko Mountain Bus, Route 1) ↓ 13:20 Arrival: Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONEt ・Combined, Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE and the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden take about 2.5 hours. Since this will be a somewhat rushed tour, we recommend visiting the Church of the Wind on a separate day if you’d like to take your time. ・Don’t miss the Shinike near the parking lot or Yayoi Kusama. ↓ Walk: About 5 minutes ↓ Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden ・Enjoy the artworks as you walk from the West Entrance toward the East Entrance. The bus stop for the Church of the Wind is right by the East Entrance. 16:03 Departure: Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden (Rokko Mountain Bus Route 3) ↓ 16:06 Arrival: Church of the Wind From September 19 to November 29, on weekends and holidays, the night event is held. We recommend taking the bus from the Church of the Wind (departing at 16:29) back to the Alpine Botanical Garden to enjoy the evening event starting at 17:00. ↓ 16:46 Departure: Church of the Wind (Rokko Mountain Bus Route 3)   Take the Rokko Cable down to the bottom station, and then transfer to a Kobe City Bus to Hankyu Railway Rokko Station. It only takes about 10 minutes to Kobe Sannomiya Station and about 30 minutes to Osaka Umeda Station.   ▼Check this article▼ 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals 7 Osaka Umeda Night Activities. Enjoy the night in the city with bars, cafes and night views! During the art festival, restaurants and cafés within the venue will offer special limited-time menus. Visitors can savor dishes made with ingredients unique to Mount Rokko. This dining room overlooks Osaka and Kobe. Lunch is mainly courses, and is recommended for those who can take their time. It is also open until 8:00 p.m. (last entry at 7:00 p.m.), so it can be used as a dinner after sightseeing. Located inside the Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE, this café offers semi-self-service one-plate lunches and café menu items. There is also seating outside, so it is pleasant to eat on the terrace when the weather is nice.   Kobe Beef Hamburger Steak with Melting Cheese Gratin (Served with Rice, Salad, and Pumpkin Soup) 2,000 yen (tax included) A juicy Kobe beef hamburger steak topped with white sauce and cheese and baked to perfection. This delightful dish combines the rich flavor of the cheese with the savory umami of Kobe beef. Other plans include a reservation plan with lunch for a private use of the park’s 360-degree transparent “SIKI Dome,” which is recommended for those who want to spend a relaxing time at the Rokko Musical Box Museum & Gardens MORINONE.   More details about reservation of SIKI Dome please click here There are two entrances to the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, and Café Edelweiss is located near the east entrance. We recommend the terrace seats overlooking the trees of the botanical garden. This semi-self-service restaurant offers a casual Western menu of curry rice, hamburgers, stews, and other dishes. Seats by the window overlook the cityscape of Kobe. Many Japanese people probably associate Mt. Rokko with Genghis Khan. It has been a specialty of Mt. Rokko since ancient times. Enjoy the view from the mountain while eating Genghis Khan. This café offers chef’s special dishes and sweets made with seasonal ingredients. You can enjoy curry and hamburgers made with “Yamamitsu,” honey from Mt. Rokko.     Original Kobe Rokko Meets Art merchandise is available at five shops within the venue: ・Rokko Yusan Guidebook Shop 737 ・Museum Shop Tokine ・Shop Alpicora ・Official Art Shop Holti ・Rokko Souvenir Shop   A recommended stop is the Official Art Shop Horti, located in the Rokko Garden Terrace area. Inside the spacious two-story shop, you’ll find everything from original event merchandise to a wide variety of Rokko Mountain goods.   This is an event exclusive to autumn where you can enjoy art along with the beautiful natural scenery of Mount Rokko. We hope you’ll make it a point to visit every fall.

11 Best Autumn Flowers Japan｜Rose, Dalia, Cosmos And Kochia

From the end of the hot summer to the beginning of the fall foliage, pretty flowers bloom beautifully under the fresh blue sky. There are many colorful and beautiful sights unique to this season. In addition to introducing typical autumn flowers and plants, we will also introduce autumn flower spots in the Kansai region. The best time to see the flowers is only a guide, so please check the web before you go.   【Cosmos】Best time to visit: early October to early November （NARA）HANNYAJI （HYOGO・AMAGASAKI）Mukogawa Hige no watashi cosmos garden （OSAKA）Toyono Cosmos-no-sato （OSAKA）Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park 【Kochia】Best time to visit: Early October to late October （OSAKA）Expo ’70 Commemorative Park （HYOGO）Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden （SHIGA）Biwako Hakodateyama 【Dahlia】Best time to visit: early October to early November （HYOGO・TAKARAZUKA）Takarazuka Dahlia Garden 【Rose】Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November （HYOGO・ITAMI）Aramaki Rose Park （HYOGO・SUMA）Kobe Suma Rikyu Park （OSAKA）Nakanoshima Rose Garden The cosmos is a typical Japanese autumnal flower. Blooming in the autumn sky, swaying gently in the wind, cosmos make a magnificent sight when planted in clusters. They come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, white, and yellow. Hannya-ji Temple is known as a temple where flowers bloom from season to season. It is especially famous for its cosmos in autumn and is nicknamed “Cosmos Temple”. About 150,000 cosmos trees of 30 different varieties are planted, and when they are in full bloom, the cosmos flowers look as if they are enveloping the old hall and stone Buddha, creating a charming atmosphere.   Glittering glass cubes of cosmos are placed here and there in the precincts of the temple. These glass squares are decorated with cosmos flowers floating in water, looking like jewels. The Mukogawa Hige no watashi cosmos garden was established in 2003. The riverbed, which was once in disrepair, has been transformed into a magnificent cosmos garden through the efforts of local residents. It has now become a well-known cosmos garden, attracting many visitors every year.   From mid-October to mid-November, when the cosmos are in full bloom, a carpet of approximately 5.5 million brightly colored cosmos will spread over the riverbed. The cosmos garden was started by flower enthusiasts about 30 years ago, and is a popular cosmos viewing spot that attracts many tourists and photographers from within and outside of the prefecture. The handmade, warm space and atmosphere are also attractive.   About one million cosmos bloom all over the approximately 1 hectare park. Visitors can take pictures of themselves completely enveloped by the tall cosmos, which are about the height of an adult. At the Windmill Hill in Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park, there are about 10,000 cosmos flowers in bloom. In addition, there are various types of plants such as roses and metasequoia trees, and families and couples can relax and enjoy themselves.   Within the park, there are cafes such as Komeda Coffee and Starbucks, and you can also bring your own lunch and eat it on the benches in the park. To the northwest of Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park, there is “Children’s Forest” and “Tsurumikko Park,” which feature composite play equipment for children aged 3 to 12. Additionally, just outside Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park Station, there is the natural hot spring “Tsurumi Ryokuchi Park Onsen Suisyun,” making it a great place to enjoy a full day with your family. Kochia is a unique and lovely plant with a fluffy appearance that multiplies very well. At first it is green, but in autumn its leaves turn red, a very vivid and beautiful red. The kochia at the National Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture is a popular sightseeing spot in autumn. The kochia trees growing in clusters over a large area are a spectacular sight. Since 2022, about 4,000 kochia plants have been planted in Osaka’s Expo ’70 Commemorative Park on the hill of flowers, and as of the end of September, they are gradually changing color. This fall, the “Cosmos Kochia Festa” will be held from October 4 through November 3, where visitors can enjoy autumn flowers.   We are looking forward to seeing the kochia that have grown so well over the summer turn bright red when autumn arrives.   ▼Click here for more information about the park▼ Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is a great place to visit in Osaka! Highlights Explained! Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden is located just a short distance from downtown Kobe and Kitano Foreigner’s House. Take the ropeway for a 10-minute ride while enjoying the view of Kobe’s cityscape below. The garden welcomes visitors with approximately 200 varieties and 75,000 plants of herbs and flowers throughout the four seasons.   The fluffy kochia  and the view of Kobe’s cityscape can only be enjoyed at the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden. Biwako Hakodateyama in Shiga can be enjoyed as a ski resort in winter. In summer and fall, numerous seasonal flowers delight visitors. Hakodateyama Kochia Park has 6,000 kochia trees planted along its slopes.   Not only kochia but also colorful flowers are in full bloom and the park is filled with flowers.   Hakodateyama is reached by gondola with a view of Lake Biwa. From the terrace with chairs on the observation deck, where a large panorama spreads out, you can see Lake Biwa and the flower garden below. Dahlias have great presence and power! Their large, bright flowers make their surroundings pop with color. They are popular not only for bouquets and arrangements, but also for gardening. The flowers come in a great variety of blooming styles, colors, and shapes. At Takarazuka Dahlia Garden, about 20,000 dahlias of 50 varieties are grown, and visitors can appreciate the colorful red, yellow, pink, and other flowers. The northern part of Takarazuka City is one of the largest dahlia bulb-producing areas in Japan, and the dahlia has been recognized as Takarazuka’s city flower.   Dahlias bloom twice a year, in summer and fall. Takarazuka Dahlia Garden will be open for a limited time from mid-July to early August in summer and from early October to early November in fall.   Opening dates: October 1 – November 3, 2026 The number of rose varieties is very large, ranging from 30,000 to 100,000 and even more. These flowers bloom twice a year, in spring and fall, and delight us with their many varieties and colors, including white, red, pink, yellow, and blue. About 250 varieties of roses from around the world, 10,000 of them, bloom and fragrance the entire 1.7 hectare area of the garden. The “Amatsu Otome” and “Madame Viollet,” both born in Itami, are world-famous.   The antique brick masonry plantings, columns, and white walls give the building a Southern European atmosphere and enhance the beauty of the roses. Kobe Suma Rikyu Park is a park overlooking the city of Kobe and Osaka Bay. The rose garden, said to be one of the best in the Kansai region, has about 300 varieties and 4,000 rose bushes in bloom, allowing visitors to enjoy colorful flowers and rich fragrances. The best time to see autumn roses is usually from mid-October to mid-November.   In addition to roses, Kobe Suma Rikyu Park features a field athletics area, a rest house, and an eastern plant garden zone with an observation greenhouse, flower gardens, Japanese-style rooms, and Japanese-style gardens, making it an ideal spot to spend the day with family or friends. Located between the Dojima River and the Tosabori River, this is one of the best places in Osaka for roses. The “Rose Path” along the river and the rose garden are filled with 3,700 roses of about 310 varieties, including modern roses and English roses.   Located one stop from Osaka Umeda Station, the park is surrounded by buildings and colorful roses. You can buy a box lunch and eat it in the park, or there is a café with terrace seating on the opposite side of the rose garden where you can overlook the entire rose garden.   ▼Click here for details on Nakanoshima Park▼ Nakanoshima Park and Recommended Nearby Attractions How was it? Autumn in Japan is the season of colored leaves, but there are many other places where you can enjoy autumn flowers and plants. Autumn is the perfect season to go out. Enjoy the beautiful autumn scenery that can only be seen at this time of year!

Kobe Oji Park Area Complete Guide | A Perfect One-Day Itinerary with Oji Zoo, Retro Shopping Street & Hot Spring

When you think of Kobe, you may picture its beautiful harbor, elegant historic streets, and chic Western-style atmosphere. But if you’d like to experience local Japan away from the typical tourist attractions, the Oji Park area is the perfect place to visit.   In this guide, we’ll introduce a one-day itinerary where you can experience the best of everyday local life and culture—from meeting adorable animals at the zoo and exploring a nostalgic shopping street frequented by local residents to relaxing in a natural hot spring and soothing your travel-weary body.   Index 1. What Is the Oji Park Area Like? 2. Spend the Morning for Adorable Animals at Oji Zoo 3. Explore the Local Suido-suji Shopping Street in the Afternoon 4. [Retro Cafe] Café Donie for Lunch 5. For Drinks Lovers: Enjoy a Drink Along the Shopping Street ① [Japanese Sake] Standing Bar Wa-in ② [Craft Beer] Brasserie a Route 6. End Your Day with a Relaxing Soak in Natural Hot Springs at Nada Onsen Suido-suji 7. A Bonus Spot If You Have Time: Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art Located just about 5 minutes by train from Sannomiya, Kobe’s central district, the area around Oji Park is a peaceful, leafy residential neighborhood set against the backdrop of Mount Rokko.   It’s an ideal area for travelers who want to escape the crowds of major tourist attractions, mingle with locals, enjoy delicious food, and experience authentic everyday Japanese life and culture.   Access: Just steps from Oji-koen Station on the Hankyu Kobe Line. Start your day at Kobe Oji Zoo, located just a short walk from the station. Spread across a spacious site, this popular zoo is home to a wide variety of animals. At Oji Zoo, you can meet around 120 species, including Asian elephants, giraffes, polar bears, and penguins. There is also a petting area where you can interact with adorable animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs, as well as an educational museum where you can learn about animal behavior and how they are cared for, making it a great place to spend a few hours. One of the biggest highlights at Oji Zoo is the koala. A baby koala was born in December 2025 and is growing healthy under the watchful eyes of its family and keepers. If you’re visiting the koala area, aim for the feeding time from 1:00 p.m. You may even get the chance to see a koala making a rare jump!   The zoo is also home to some unusual animals, including the bobcat, a member of the lynx family that can only be seen at Oji Zoo in Japan, as well as the Tibetan brown bear, a relatively small species of bear. Another fun feature is the retro amusement park within the zoo grounds, which makes a great backdrop for nostalgic photos. If you’re visiting in spring (late March to early April), don’t miss the approximately 480 cherry trees blooming throughout the zoo. Evening illumination events are also held during the cherry blossom season, offering a magical way to experience the beauty of spring in Japan. After exploring the zoo, head to Suido-suji Shopping Street, just a few minutes away on foot.   With a history spanning more than 100 years since the Taisho era (1912–1926), this lively shopping street retains the nostalgic atmosphere of old Japan. It was named “Suido-suji” because a water supply pipe runs beneath the shopping street.   Stretching for about 500 meters, the covered arcade is lined with around 120 independent shops, including greengrocers, fishmongers, daily goods stores, and delicatessens that cater to the everyday needs of local residents. From the cheerful calls of shopkeepers to locals chatting as they shop with bags in hand, you’ll get a glimpse of authentic everyday life in Japan that you won’t find in a typical guidebook. As you explore the shopping street, it’s time to stop for lunch. Here, we’ll introduce a popular Japanese cafe on Suido-suji Shopping Street. Unlike chain coffee shops, kissaten are traditional Japanese cafés that have developed their own unique style and culture over the years. Located along Suido-suji Shopping Street, Café Donie is a charming kissaten with a long history, having first opened in 1945. Step inside, and you’ll feel as though you’ve traveled back to nostalgic Japan. Beautiful vintage-style interiors and a warm, wood-accented atmosphere create a wonderfully relaxing space.   Savoring a cup of siphon-brewed coffee, carefully prepared one cup at a time, is a special experience in this dreamy setting. Be sure to try some classic dishes and desserts that are uniquely associated with Japanese kissaten, such as Napolitan spaghetti, a Japanese-style pasta dish, and purin à la mode, an artistic dessert featuring pudding beautifully arranged with fruit and whipped cream. As the sun begins to set, head to one of the unique bars along Suido-suji Shopping Street for a drink in a relaxed, local atmosphere. Japan has a unique bar culture called tachinomi, where people enjoy drinks while standing at a counter rather than sitting at a table.   Embracing this traditional style, Wa-in is a stylish standing bar where you can casually enjoy a wide selection of Japanese sake paired with authentic Japanese tapas. The owner’s passion for sake can be felt throughout the bar, from tables made from sake barrels to the tradition of opening a new sake bottle on the first day of every month.   One of the best things about the standing-bar style is the opportunity to casually chat with people nearby while enjoying a glass of sake. It’s a wonderful way to experience the kind of spontaneous, friendly interaction with local residents that you can only find in a neighborhood bar. At Brasserie a Route, you can enjoy a variety of craft beers brewed with spring water from Mount Maya in Kobe. The bar’s original beers are brewed in an on-site brewery built inside what was once a clothing store, giving the space a unique local character.   One of the best things about Brasserie a Route is its relaxed approach to food: you’re welcome to bring in food purchased from independent shops along Suido-suji Shopping Street and enjoy it with your beer.   Pick up some deli dishes from a local fishmonger or a freshly fried croquette from a butcher, then pair them with a craft beer you can only enjoy here. It’s a wonderfully authentic way to experience the community spirit of the shopping street, one drink and one local bite at a time. Finally, wrap up your day at Nada Onsen Suido-suji, a beloved hot spring known as one of Kobe’s local hidden gems and cherished by hot spring enthusiasts across Japan. Here, you can soak in a natural hot spring featuring carbonated mineral-rich water that rises from underground. The hot spring at Nada Onsen is popular as a “beauty bath” that warms you from the inside out and leaves your skin feeling smooth and refreshed. It’s also a favorite among locals, with visitors often lining up every day. The spacious far-infrared sauna and cold-water bath fed by underground water from the foothills of the Rokko Mountains are also popular features. The owner of Nada Onsen is also actively working to make the facility more welcoming to international visitors, including providing an English-language brochure explaining the facilities and how to enjoy the bath. With a warm welcome for overseas travelers who want to experience Japan’s traditional sento (public bath) culture, the facility is also family-friendly and welcomes guests with children. Why not end your day with a relaxing soak and experience a peaceful moment of local Japanese life?   Please note that the English brochures are available in limited quantities. If you’re interested in art, be sure to stop by the Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art, located just a short walk from Oji-koen Station.   The museum showcases the bold and psychedelic works of Tadanori Yokoo, one of Japan’s most internationally renowned graphic designers and contemporary artists. Its creative atmosphere pairs perfectly with the artistic inspiration found throughout the zoo, making it a hidden gem that’s particularly popular among art lovers from overseas.   ▼Also check here▼ 10 BEST Museums and Art Galleries in Kobe The Oji Park area of Kobe offers something you simply can’t experience by visiting tourist attractions alone: a chance to connect with the warmth of local communities and get a genuine feel for everyday life in Japan. Take your time strolling through the neighborhood, soak up the atmosphere of authentic Japan, and discover some special memories of your own.

First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course

Where is the best place to visit in Kobe? What to eat? The following is a list of major sightseeing spots and attractions recommended for first-time visitors to Kobe!   -INDEX- Sightseeing Spots in Kobe １．Ikuta Shrine ２．Kitano Ijinkan Gai ３．Kitano Tenma Shrine ４．Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway ５．Sorakuen garden ６．Nankinmachi ７．The Former Foreign Settlement Of Kobe ８．Meriken Park (BE KOBE Monument) ９．Kobe Port Tower １０．Kobe Harborland umie １１．Kobe Bay Cruise １２．AQUARIUM×ART átoa １３．Kobe Animal Kingdom １４．Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art １５．Nada Gogo １６．Mt. Rokko area １７．Arima Onsen Gourmet Spots in Kobe １８．Specialties of Kobe・Kobe Beef １９．Specialties of Kobe・Sweets ２０．Specialties of Kobe・Bread ２１．A specialty of Kobe: Roushouki pork buns ■Recommended Train Tickets for Exploring Kobe ■Sightseeing in Kobe by bus is also recommended ■Kobe Sightseeing 1 Day Model Course The shrine is said to have been founded in 201. Within the shrine grounds, there are various regent and subordinate shrines with various benefits, as well as power spots. The “mizu-mikuji” love fortune-telling, in which characters emerge when the fortune paper is dipped in water, is popular! The artistic paper-cutting goshuin also attracts attention.   ▼Check out this article▼ 8 Must-Visit Shrines in Kobe: Perfect to Pair with Nearby Attractions Kitano Ijinkan Gai is one of Kobe’s most popular tourist spots! The town flourished as a settlement for the increasing number of foreigners who came to Japan after the opening of the Port of Kobe in 1868, and is dotted with more than 30 classical Western-style buildings, about half of which are open to the public.     Kitano Tenma Shrine is located uptown in the Kitano Ijinkan Gai. It is a spot with a spectacular view of the Port of Kobe, the cityscape of Kobe, and the modern Western-style buildings of the Kitano Ijinkan-gai, and is also famous for its plum blossoms, which bloom from February to March.   ▼Check out this article▼ February and March trip is plum blossom viewing! Best spots in Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe A 10-minute ropeway ride from the foot of the mountain takes you to one of the largest herb gardens in Japan, with 75,000 flowers and herbs of about 200 species. Inside the park, there are restaurants and cafes overlooking the city of Kobe, providing a resort-like atmosphere on the mountain. This is the only Japanese garden in a city park in Kobe City, and visitors can admire the garden while circling around the pond. In the modern port city of Kobe, this is a rare spot where visitors can experience a Japanese atmosphere! The scenery of azaleas in spring and autumn leaves in fall is especially worth seeing.   ▼Check out this article▼ Best 15 Places to See Autumn Leaves in Japan!   Nankinmachi, a Chinatown in Kobe’s Motomachi district, is one of the three major Chinatowns in Japan along with Yokohama and Nagasaki. Eating and walking is popular! There are also many events such as “Chinese New Year Festival,” “Mid-Autumn Festival,” and “Lantern Fair.” After the opening of the Port of Kobe, the Former Foreign Settlement Of Kobe was built following modern European urban planning. Today, boutiques and restaurants are housed in modern buildings, and the area is recognized as a fashionable area with an exotic atmosphere. A waterfront park facing the Port of Kobe. Dotted around the park are photogenic landmarks of Kobe, the city of the sea. One must not forget to take a photo in front of the monument “BE KOBE” when sightseeing! Why not take a walk around the area while feeling the sea breeze?   The Starbucks right by the ocean is also recommended. Starbucks Coffee Kobe Meriken Park: A Store with a Stunning View of the Kobe Sea     Kobe Port Tower, marked by the red lattice that symbolizes Kobe, reopened on April 26, 2024 (Friday)! In addition to the open-air rooftop deck and the Museum of Reflections of Light, a café and bar with a floor that slowly rotates 360 degrees will appear on the third floor of the observation deck. Visitors can enjoy a light meal while viewing the city of Kobe. Kobe Port Tower is located in Meriken Park. “Kobe Harborland umie” is a commercial facility facing the Port of Kobe, where visitors can enjoy local gourmet food and shopping. The landmark Giant Ferris Wheel is colorfully illuminated at night with approximately 120,000 LED lights. Animated images of Kobe, such as a weathercock and a yacht, are also projected. The view of Kobe from the sea is also spectacular! “Kobe Bay Cruise,” which has a boarding station at Meriken Park, operates a sightseeing boat that takes 45 minutes to travel around Kobe Port. The dusk, which turns into a madder shade of red, is a romantic sight. Aquarium and art fuse together! This is a new type of theater-type aquarium that stimulates the senses by adding digital art, lighting, sound effects and scents to the aquarium where sea creatures live. It is recommended to visit in the late afternoon when there are fewer visitors. A symbiotic park on Port Island where visitors can interact with flowers, animals, and people. There are indoor and outdoor areas where you can meet cute animals, mainly birds, and rare flowers. Recommended for sightseeing with children! It takes about 20 minutes from Kobe Sannomiya Station by Port Liner.   ▼Check this article for more information▼ 4 Recommended Zoos to Visit in Kobe The museum was designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando. Visitors can experience the calculated architectural beauty of a huge labyrinth, such as the “Circular Terrace”, a beautiful spiral of cast concrete, and the glass-walled corridors surrounding the exhibition rooms.   ▼Check out this article▼ Tadao Ando Buildings You Should Visit in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe 10 BEST Museums and Art Galleries in Kobe Nada Gogo is the name of one of Japan’s most famous sake brewing areas, consisting of Nishi-go, Mikage-go, and Uozaki-go, located in Kobe City, and Nishinomiya-go and Imazu-go, located in Nishinomiya City. Visitors can tour the museum, taste and purchase valuable sake, making it a popular destination for visitors to Japan.   ▼Check out this article▼ Gourmet trip to enjoy sake by Hanshin Railway   ▼Check here for access to each sake brewery! Rokko, close to the city center, is a sightseeing and experience area with a “ten million dollar night view,” an observatory where you can take photogenic photos, and adventure athletic facilities. In particular, the “Kobe Rokko Meets Art” held every year from September to November is a must-see. This popular event blends nature and contemporary art in harmony.   ▼Check out this article▼ Rokko Tourist Guide Arima Onsen, one of the three best hot springs in Japan, is a must-visit tourist spot! You can stay at a ryokan of your dreams or enjoy it as a day trip from Kobe Sannomiya. Enjoy the elegant streets of the hot spring resort, the gold and silver spring with their characteristic spring water qualities, and the gourmet food in the hot spring resort. It is also possible to take a ropeway from the top of Mt. Express buses are convenient from Osaka.   ▼Check out this article▼ Arima Onsen-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy Hot Springs, Gourmet, and Nature! The 10 best food and sweets in Arima Onsen Town How to Get to Arima Onsen from Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe – A Complete Transportation Guide   ▼Check out discounted tickets▼ “Arima Onsen Taiko no Yu” Day Trip Bathing Plan Kobe beef is one of the most popular gourmet foods in Kobe! Many people want to enjoy its fine grain, sweetness, and aroma. “kisshokichi-honten” specializes in Kobe beef that has passed a strict screening process. Web reservations in English and Chinese are also available. Kobe was one of the first cities in Kansai to adopt Western culture, and has a thriving confectionery culture, including cakes, chocolates, baked goods, and gaufres. Afternoon tea can be enjoyed at the popular PATISSERIE TOOTH TOOTH main store cafe. Sweets in unique packages are recommended as souvenirs. Like sweets, Kobe also has a well-established bread culture. The long-established Isuzu Bakery was established in 1946 and offers 180-190 varieties of bread every day.   ▼Check this article for more information▼ 6 Must-Try Breads in Japan & Kansai “Roushouki” is a long-established Chinese restaurant located in front of the Nanjing Town Square and has been a favorite for over 100 years. The line outside the restaurant is made up of people who want to try the famous “pork buns”. The freshly made pork buns are the perfect accompaniment to your meal. There are also many other gourmet foods loved in Kobe, such as Western cuisine, gyoza, and bokkake yakisoba. For more information, check out the article below! 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals The Hanshin 24-Hour Pass is our top recommendation for exploring Kobe.   ▼Please check this article for more details▼ Kobe Airport Access Guide: 2-Day, 1-Night Itinerary with Hanshin 24-Hour Pass Kobe’s major tourist attractions are compactly located, but the city has many hills due to its location between the mountains and the sea. If you are worried about getting around on foot or are tired on the way, we recommend using the City Loop Bus.   ▶Click here for the official website. We have prepared a recommended model course for those who wish to enjoy the attractions of Kobe in one day. Please see the article below. Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy the fashionable port city, Kobe   Kobe has developed a different culture from Osaka and Kyoto, even in the same Kansai region. Please enjoy the scenery of this high-carat port town.

Curious George × HANKYU Collaboration: Ride the Special Train, Shop Exclusive Goods, and Enjoy Limited-Edition Food

To celebrate the 85th anniversary of Curious George in 2026, the beloved little monkey is teaming up with HANKYU for a special collaboration!   From a Curious George-themed wrapped train to exclusive merchandise and limited-edition food and drinks, there’s plenty to enjoy throughout the campaign. If you’re visiting Osaka, Kyoto, or Kobe during the event period, don’t miss this adorable collaboration!   Index 1. Ride the Curious George Train through Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe 2. Exclusive merchandise featuring George in HANKYU’s signature maroon railway uniform 3. Cute and delicious! Curious George × HANKYU collaboration food & drinks 4. George pops up at Hankyu Sanbangai, NU Chayamachi, and more, plus a joint stamp rally The Curious George × HANKYU collaboration runs from July 31, 2026 (Fri.) to February 17, 2027 (Wed.).   The highlight of the campaign is undoubtedly the Curious George Train. One train on each of HANKYU’s three main lines—the Kobe Line (Osaka-umeda ↔ Kobe-sannomiya), Kyoto Line (Osaka-umeda ↔ Kyoto-kawaramachi), and Takarazuka Line (Osaka-umeda ↔ Takarazuka)—has been completely transformed with Curious George-themed decorations. Each train features an exclusive exterior design inspired by landmarks along its route. You may spot familiar sights such as Kobe Port Tower and the zoo on the Kobe Line, the Takarazuka Grand Theater and Minoh Falls on the Takarazuka Line, or torii gates and matcha motifs on the Kyoto Line. The Curious George Train also carries a special commemorative headmark, while a Curious George plush dressed in HANKYU’s signature maroon railway uniform accompanies the train from the crew’s cabin. Inside the train, every corner is filled with the world of Curious George. Be sure to look for the themed stickers on the doors and windows—each railway line has its own exclusive designs. Even the hand straps and hanging advertisements have been transformed into Curious George decorations! A wide range of exclusive collaboration merchandise is also available, including plush toys, lunch tote bags, acrylic cups, pin badges, and more, all featuring George dressed in HANKYU’s iconic maroon railway uniform. The collection includes 24 charming items you’ll want to use every day.   ■Release Date: From August 26 (release dates vary by retailer)   Available at: Selected Lawson stores along the Hankyu Hanshin railway network, Color Field cosmetic and lifestyle stores (all locations), Cleduple, selected Kiddy Land stores, and other participating retailers. *Please note that all merchandise is available while supplies last.   The Curious George × HANKYU collection, along with other official HANKYU railway merchandise, is also available through the HANKYU DENSHA SHOP　online store. Looking for a unique souvenir? From August 4 to November 9, 2026, limited-edition collaboration food items will be available at shops located inside and around HANKYU stations. *Please note that sales periods vary by store. At Freds Cafe (located at Osaka-umeda Station, Nishinomiya-kitaguchi Station, and other locations), you’ll find two specially packaged flavored teas: Tropical Fruit and Chocolate Banana. At A la Campagne, available at stations including Nishinomiya-kitaguchi, the collaboration features a banana-flavored madeleine created especially for the event. Meanwhile, Tully’s Coffee stores at Osaka-umeda Station, Nishinomiya-kitaguchi Station, and other locations are serving fluffy baked cakes printed with an adorable image of George. They’re topped with banana jam—George’s favorite—and whipped cream drizzled with chocolate sauce. You’ll also find Curious George × HANKYU original-label bottled drinks in vending machines at Osaka-umeda Station, Nishinomiya-Kitaguchi Station, and other stations. The labels can be carefully peeled off and used as stickers, making them a fun keepsake. There are 13 different label designs, so you’ll never know which one you’ll get!   ▶ Click here　for collaboration food sales shops and periods. Starting August 18, 2026, participating commercial facilities—including Hankyu Sanbangai, NU Chayamachi, NU Chayamachi Plus, Grand Front Osaka Shops & Restaurants, and Hankyu Nishinomiya Gardens—will host a series of special events under the theme “Let’s Go! George’s Exciting Adventure Team.” *Event dates vary by venue.   At Hankyu Sanbangai, visitors can enjoy themed photo spots. In addition, customers who spend ¥1,000 (tax included) or more at participating UMEDA FOOD HALL restaurants will receive either an original coaster or an original placemat, depending on the campaign period.   ▶ For details of commercial facilities check here Visitors can also join a joint stamp rally by collecting stamps at all six stamp locations across Hankyu Sanbangai, NU Chayamachi, and NU Chayamachi Plus. Complete the rally to receive an exclusive original clear file.   ▶ For details of the Hankyu Sanbangai × NU Chayamachi Joint Stamp Rally check here   Step into the delightful world of Curious George through themed trains, exclusive food, special events, and unique shopping experiences.   © & ® UCS LLC and HC LLC ©Hankyu Corp.

Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Tour of Kobe Shrines along the Hankyu Railway

Mt.Rokko, Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy the panoramic view and nature-filled Rokko Mountain to the fullest!

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

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!