VISIT KOBE

Discover the unique charms and famous spots of Kobe in Spring.

From mid-February to early March come deep pink plum-blossom flowers, best viewed at Okamoto Bairin, famed since Edo times (1600-1868) for its plum groves. Also needing no introduction are the cherry blossoms, viewable in all their splendor from numerous easily accessible spots in Kobe.

These include the so-called “sakura tunnel”, a hill sloping down from Maya Cable Station on the Maya View Line, with cherry blossom trees on both sides forming an arch. Another great option is Sumaura Park, about 20 minutes by train from Sannomiya, with over 3,000 cherry blossom trees, spectacular sea views and the Sumaura Mountaintop Amusement Park sure to be a hit with the kids. Finally, for night blossoms, check out the yozakura illuminated trees at Kobe Oji Zoo, next to Oji Koen station on the Hankyu line.

The Kobe Infiorata festival, held during Japan’s “Golden Week” holiday in early May, sees the Kitanozaka hill transformed into a sea of flower petal paintings. From late April onward, operating hours for the Maya View Line and Rokko-Arima Ropeway are extended so visitors can take in all the sights. Then, in around mid-May, comes the famous Kobe festival, which runs city-wide and climaxes in the main parade, with seventy groups totalling up to 200 people displaying elaborate costumes and floats. The most eye-catching sight is the samba dancers, celebrating Kobe’s sister city links with Rio de Janeiro.