Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the Shin-Kobe Ropeway for spectacular aerial views of the city, mountains, and Kobe Port.

• Explore the twelve distinct theme gardens to discover seasonal herbs, vibrant flowers, and fragrant botanical displays.

• Indulge in a relaxing tea time at The Veranda Kobe cafe terrace while overlooking the stunning cityscape.

• Create your own custom fragrance or herbal craft at the interactive workshop spaces within the gardens.

Hidden Gems

• The Goddess Garden near the ropeway station features a beautiful fountain and statues that are especially magical during the evening illuminations.

• Look for the hidden footbath near the observation deck where you can soak your feet in warm, herb-infused water while enjoying the breeze.

• The Herb Dining restaurant offers a fantastic lunch buffet that incorporates fresh, edible herbs and flowers directly from the gardens into their dishes.

What Makes it Special

• The seamless integration of a thrilling ropeway ride with a serene, meticulously landscaped botanical sanctuary high above the city.

• Year-round visual and aromatic transformations across twelve unique theme gardens that celebrate the distinct beauty of every season.

• Unobstructed, sweeping panoramic views of Kobe Port, the Seto Inland Sea, and the surrounding Rokko mountain range from multiple elevated vantage points.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to visit is during the spring for the blooming cherry blossoms and tulips, or early summer for the spectacular lavender fields, though the gardens offer vibrant colors year-round. Aim for a weekday morning right after opening to enjoy the ropeway and observation decks with minimal crowds and crisp, clear visibility. Evening visits during special illumination periods are also highly recommended for romantic, glittering views of the Kobe nightscape.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the iconic view of Kobe Port and the city skyline from the large observation deck near the summit station, ideally during the golden hour just before sunset.

• Use a polarizing filter when shooting from inside the ropeway gondola to reduce glare from the glass windows and enhance the vibrant colors of the forest canopy below.

• Focus on macro photography in the theme gardens to capture the intricate details, dew drops, and vibrant hues of the seasonal herbs and flowers.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Japanese gardens are places of tranquility, so it is polite to keep your voice down and avoid picking any flowers or herbs from the displays. When using the public footbath, be sure to wash your feet at the provided showers before entering and use the complimentary towels respectfully. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so simply offer a polite thank you to the staff at the cafes and shops.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• The Kobe Winter Illumination events transform the gardens into a magical nightscape of sparkling lights from late November through December.

• The Lavender Festival in June and July celebrates the blooming of the purple fields with special herb-harvesting workshops and limited-edition lavender treats.

• Spring Flower Festivals in April and May feature vibrant tulip and cherry blossom displays, accompanied by outdoor acoustic music performances on the terrace.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Hold onto the handrails when walking through the gardens, as some pathways can become slippery after rain or during the winter months.

• Stay seated and keep your hands and feet inside the ropeway gondola at all times during the ascent and descent.

• Stay hydrated and use sun protection during the summer months, as the elevated observation decks offer little shade and the sun can be intense.