Spring in 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.
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Okamoto Bairin Park
Just a 10-minute walk from Okamoto station, this famous plum blossom viewing spot features over 200 trees, great city views and a rich history dating back to the Edo Period (1600-1868).
Sakura Tunnel
The stunning “sakura tunnel”, a stone’s throw from Maya Cable Car station runs southward for around 400 metres and boasts around seventy Somei Yoshino cherry blossom trees that form a beautifully arching tunnel of cherry blossoms.
Sumaura Sanjo Yuen amusement park
A short hop up from Sumaura Park, this mountaintop amusement park is sure to keep the kids happy with a cable car and chairlift-style ride, revolving mountaintop observatory and great views overlooking western Kobe and the sea.
Kobe Festival
Held city-wide over two days in mid-May, this festival features stage performances, markets, musical bands and food stalls galore. The highlight is the samba dance show, inspired by Kobe’s sister city Rio de Janeiro!
