Zuihoji Park Autumn Foliage Report (November 2025)｜Peak Colors & Food Walk in Arima Onsen
On November 14th, I visited Zuihoji Park, one of Arima Onsen’s most popular autumn foliage spots. The colors were at their absolute peak, and the brilliant reds and oranges across the entire park—especially at the entrance gate—were breathtaking.
The moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by a world painted in autumn hues. It’s astonishing that admission is completely free—a truly must-visit place in Arima during fall.
Access: A Relaxing Mountain-Route Trip via Kobe Electric Railway
The most common way to reach Arima Onsen is by taking the Kobe Electric Railway. The local line runs through the mountains, letting you enjoy a slow and scenic ride.
🚃 Access by Train: From Sannomiya to Arima Onsen
Total travel time: approx. 40 min
Traveling from the center of Kobe—Sannomiya—is easy, thanks to the seamless transfer between the subway and Kobe Electric Railway.
Route
- From Sannomiya Station, take the Kobe Municipal Subway to Tanigami Station
- Transfer to the Kobe Electric Railway at Tanigami (same platform)
- At Arimaguchi Station, transfer to the Arima Line
- Arrive at Arima Onsen Station
Highlights
- The route is essentially one simple transfer, ideal for visitors
- About 15 minutes on foot from Arima Onsen Station to Zuihoji Park
🚌 Access by Bus: Convenient Direct Routes
If you have luggage or simply want a no-transfer option, Shinki Bus offers direct services to Arima Onsen.
Main boarding points
- Kobe Airport (T1 & T2)
- Sannomiya Bus Terminal
- Hotel Okura Kobe
- Shin-Kobe Station
- Arima Onsen (Taiko Bridge) ← closest stop to Zuihoji Park
- Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets
Fares (major sections)
| Section | Fare |
|---|---|
| Kobe Airport → Arima Onsen | ¥810 |
| Sannomiya Bus Terminal → Arima Onsen | ¥600 |
| Shin-Kobe Station → Arima Onsen | ¥600 |
| Arima Onsen → Sanda Premium Outlets | ¥610 |
Notes
- All major IC cards accepted (Suica / ICOCA / PiTaPa)
- No reservations required (cannot board if seats are full)
Highlights of Zuihoji Park: Stunning Foliage at the Entrance Gate
The symbol of Zuihoji Park is its tunnel of red maple leaves near the entrance. It looks exactly like the photos—a scene that makes you stop and stare.
Autumn foliage conditions (Mid-November 2025)
- Peak colors across the entire grounds
- Beautiful gradients of red, orange, and yellow
- Perfect timing for photography from any angle
If you’re in Arima during fall, skipping this spot would be unthinkable.
Enjoy a Food Walk Through Arima Onsen Town
After soaking in the autumn scenery, it’s time for a stroll through the charming hot spring town. The area is compact and walkable, making food walking a highlight of the trip.
Food walk highlights
- Freshly fried croquettes
- Juicy menchi-katsu (minced meat cutlet)
- Refreshing Arima soda
- Traditional sake-steamed buns
Eating as you stroll gives the town a fun, festival-like atmosphere.
Recommended Stops in Arima
Arima Brewery
A perfect spot to rest during the walk. A light, aromatic craft beer makes for a refreshing break.
NERO COFFEE ROASTERS (Arima Coffee Roastery)
A calm, cozy café ideal for winding down at the end of your walk. The name “NERO” comes from the Italian word for “black,” said to be connected to Arima’s local crow mythology, adding a layer of charm to the spot.
Tips for Visiting
Start in the morning
- Arriving around 10:30 is ideal
- Fewer crowds → easier photo-taking
- Smooth flow: foliage → food walk → café
Autumn is the perfect season for exploring on foot
- Comfortable temperatures for walking
- Many food spots make the stroll enjoyable
- Plenty of photo-friendly locations
Dining tips
- Popular restaurants may have lunchtime lines
- Plan with extra time or reserve in advance
Suggested Model Course (Based on Actual Trip)
Arrive at Arima Onsen Station
Zuihoji Park (foliage viewing)
- Enjoy photos and the iconic entrance foliage
Town stroll & food walk
- Croquettes, menchi-katsu, Arima soda, sake buns
- Break at Arima Brewery
Coffee time at Arima Coffee Roastery
- Relax in a peaceful café
Head back from Arima Onsen Station
A perfect “golden route” for a satisfying day trip.
Summary: Mid-November is the Best Season for Zuihoji Park
During mid-November 2025, Zuihoji Park reached its true peak foliage. The vibrant colors covering the entire park are truly spectacular—and it’s hard to believe admission is free.
With foliage, food walking, café time, and a relaxing train ride, Arima Onsen is one of the best destinations for an autumn day trip.
Zuihoji Park – Basic Information
- Address: 1749 Arima-cho, Kita-ku, Kobe
- Hours: Open at all times
- Admission: Free
- Access: 15-minute walk from Arima Onsen Station (Kobe Electric Railway)
- Best foliage season: Mid to late November
Recommended Spots in Arima Onsen
Advance reservations recommended for popular restaurants, especially during busy seasons.
