Jan 15, 2021
Spring Days Out in Kobe
As the spring season approaches, we are naturally gripped by the urge to get out and make the most of the warming climate. The nights start to draw out, and the trees and plants around us begin to blossom. What could be better than planning a visit to one of Kobe’s many scenic spots? Here are a few suggestions for where to go.
Mount Rokko
Mount Rokko, also known as Rokko-san, is one of Kobe’s biggest attractions. This 931-meter tall natural wonder is a treat for residents and visitors all year round. The great thing about visiting in the spring is that the snow has largely cleared, so you can hike to the summit and sample the spectacular early evening views overlooking Osaka Bay. Mount Rokko features many individual attractions worthy of a day out each. These include a botanical garden, the glorious Nunobiki Falls, an observatory, café facilities, a country house with a BBQ, and even a golf course.
Website: https://www.rokkosan.com/en/
Fruit Flower Park
This beautiful park in the Hyogo district offers the chance to unwind, away from the busy Kobe city life. Popular with families and kids due to the amusement park featuring rides and go-karts, the park is also a prime nature spot. The 35,000 tulips that emerge in springtime make it a great place for a Hanami picnic in the cherry blossom season. It’s also popular for weddings, so you may get to see a bride and groom getting snapped among the beautiful flowers. There is a hotel on-site for those who fancy an overnight stay with a hot spring bath open to visitors.
Address: 2150 Ozochokamiozo, Kita-Ku, Hyogo Prefecture, Kobe
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge
This impressive structure spanning from the western edge of Kobe to Awaji Island is the world’s longest suspension bridge and the biggest bridge of its kind in Japan. It stretches an amazing 4km and is a fantastic spot for a romantic springtime stroll. The bridge is accessed from the Maiko Marine Promenade on the Kobe side. The walkway has a glass floor, allowing walkers the chance to view the strait flowing below. If you have a bit of time and venture out early enough, you can explore the delights of Awaji Island on the other side.
Oji Zoo
One of Kobe’s main zoos, this makes for a fine spring day out if you have children. Oji Zoo has a wide selection of animals, including giant pandas, polar bears, tigers, and koalas. There is also an amusement park attached to the zoo that includes rides suitable for kids of all ages.
Website (in Japanese): http://www.kobe-ojizoo.jp/
Ikuta Shrine
Dating back to around 201AD, the Ikuta Shrine is believed to be one of the oldest shrines in Kobe. Only a 10-minute walk from Sannomiya Station, this wooden shrine is a peaceful spot surrounded by a forest of camphor trees. Ikuta Shrine has a reputation linked to romance as it enshrines a god of love and marriage. Many young couples choose to get married here, and visitors can buy trinkets believed to bestow good luck in love. It’s also possible to see plays performed at the site at certain times.
Website (in Japanese): https://ikutajinja.or.jp/
Justin Hanus editor
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