Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden (official name: Nunobiki Herb Garden) is a highland herb garden located on Mount Nunobiki (the edge of the Rokko Mountain Range), behind Shin-Kobe Station on the Shinkansen line in Kobe's Chuo Ward. A major feature of the garden is that it can be reached by ropeway up the mountainside, allowing visitors to enjoy both mountain nature and ocean and harbor views in a short distance from the city. Hundreds of varieties of herbs and seasonal flowers are arranged in terraced fields, and the garden is equipped with themed gardens (lavender, rose, fragrance garden, etc.), greenhouses, and facilities for herb-related experiences and dining. At night, you can enjoy the Kobe night view, and the garden's different appearances during the day and night are also appealing.
Highlights
– View from the ropeway window: A short aerial stroll offering panoramic views of Kobe city, the harbor, and the green mountains.
- Theme gardens: Lavender, roses, herb fields, and other seasonal flowers and fragrances.
– Observation deck/resting spot: Panoramic views of Kobe city, the Rokko mountain range, and even the Seto Inland Sea.
- Greenhouse (glass house): Exhibits tropical and greenhouse plants and rare aromatic herbs.
– Herbal Tea Restaurant: A cafe/restaurant that serves drinks and light meals made with freshly picked herbs.
- Workshops and hands-on classes: herb crafts, herb-based aromatherapy, handmade classes, etc. (Please check the dates.)
- Seasonal attractions: spring flowers, early summer lavender, summer to autumn herbs and flowers, winter greenhouses and seasonal events (illuminations, etc.).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Shin-Kobe Station (JR, subway, Shinkansen). From Shin-Kobe Station, walk to the ropeway station (approximately 3-5 minutes).
- Ropeway: The Nunobiki Ropeway (gondola) connects Shin-Kobe and the park. The ride to the top of the mountain takes about 10 minutes (approximate). Using the ropeway is the most common option, and a round-trip ticket covers both the up and down routes.
– Walking/Hiking: You can also access the area via a hiking trail from the direction of Nunobiki Falls. The walking trail is well maintained, but there are some steep slopes.
- By car: As there is limited parking within the park, we recommend coming by public transportation. If you are coming by car, please consider using a nearby parking lot or a parking lot in the city.
– Note: Ropeway operating hours, inspection closures, and seasonal schedules may change, so please check the official website or call the facility for the latest information before visiting.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short tour: Ropeway round trip, observation, and photography takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes.
- Relaxed viewing and cafe visit: Approximately 2-3 hours for a stroll around the garden, greenhouse, observation deck, and cafe.
- In-depth experience (including workshop participation and lunch): Approximately half a day (3-5 hours).
The length of stay will vary depending on the season (number of attractions), how busy it is, and whether or not you participate in a workshop.
Nearby spots
– Nunobiki Falls (Nunobiki Falls Park): A scenic spot located at the foot of the park. Popular for its waterfall viewing and hiking trails.
– Shin-Kobe Station/Shinkansen area: A major transportation hub. Direct access from the station area.
– Kitano Ijinkan-gai (Kitanocho): A group of Western-style buildings with an exotic atmosphere. Enjoy strolling and visiting cafes (accessible by taxi or on foot).
– Sannomiya (Kobe, Motomachi, Nankinmachi): Shopping, gourmet food, Nankinmachi (Chinatown), etc. From the park, you can expand your sightseeing into the city.
- Kobe Harborland and Meriken Park: A tourist spot around the port. Also suitable for combining with the night view.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: On weekends, holidays, Golden Week, summer, and during peak lavender and rose seasons, the area can be crowded and you may have to wait for the ropeway. Please allow yourself plenty of time.
- Weather and visibility: Because it is located on the side of a mountain, visibility can be poor when there is fog or low clouds, and the views and photos may not be as good as you would expect. Also, be aware that the ropeway may be suspended or closed on windy days.
- Clothing and shoes: There are many slopes and steps in the park, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and warm clothing (it can get cold on days with strong sea breezes and in the mornings and evenings).
- Handling of plants: The plants in the garden are for display purposes only. Picking or taking them home is prohibited. Photography is permitted, but please be considerate to other visitors.
- Pets: Please follow the rules of the park. There are areas where pets are allowed and areas where they are not, so please check in advance.
- Facilities and opening hours: There may be restrictions due to ropeway and facility inspections, seasonal changes in opening hours, and events. Please check the official website for the latest opening hours, holidays, and ticket information.
- Nighttime use: During the night view viewing and illumination events, crowds are expected, and traffic restrictions and admission limits may be implemented to ensure safety. It is recommended to consider using public transportation for a smoother journey.
lastly
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden is a "highland resort close to the city" that can be enjoyed throughout the year. The combination of an aerial walk on the ropeway, fragrant herbs, and panoramic views is particularly popular. It's a good idea to check the official website and the latest information on transportation before visiting.
