Why You Should Visit
This traditional event centers on burning New Year decorations to wish for safety and good health in the coming year. The fire is lit using a flame shared from the "1.17 Light of Hope," carrying remembrance for those lost to the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake and other natural disasters. Hands-on woodworking with fresh wood, bamboo usage demonstrations, and a short firewood-splitting workshop are also available.
Essentials
- location
- Kobe Municipal Shinrin Botanical Garden
- period
- January 11, 2026 (Sun)
- Time
- 10:30-11:30
- access
- Free shuttle bus about 10 minutes from Kobe Electric Railway Kita-Suzurandai Station (scheduled service). Or about 40 minutes by bus from Sannomiya. Parking available (paid) for cars.
- REGISTRATION
- Collection of New Year decorations starts at 9:30. Only burnable items such as shimenawa, pine decorations, and calligraphy paper are accepted. Please remove decorative citrus fruits (such as daidai) and any metal parts beforehand.
- NOTE
- Admission and parking are free on the day of the event. The event may be canceled in case of severe weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of New Year decorations can be brought?
Will the event be held in case of rain?
Kobe Municipal Forest Botanical Garden
GALLERY
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WHY VISIT
A botanical garden in Kita Ward, Kobe, utilizing the rich nature of Mt. Rokko. The expansive 142.6-hectare site features approximately 1,200 species of trees from around the world. Particularly famous for autumn foliage, with around 3,000 maple trees and metasequoia-lined paths coloring the fall season. Visitors can enjoy seasonal natural beauty from fresh spring greenery, early summer hydrangeas, to autumn colors. A healing spot where you can refresh while strolling through the forest, away from urban bustle.
Autumn Foliage Spot
Around 3,000 maple trees and metasequoias color the autumn. Peak season from early to late November. Evening illumination events also held.
Trees from Around the World
Approximately 1,200 species from North America, Europe, Asia and more, planted by region. Learn while enjoying forest bathing.
Great Value Annual Pass
¥900 for access to three parks: Forest Botanical Garden, Suma Rikyu, and Sorakuen. Pays for itself in just 3 visits. Credit cards accepted.
PHOTOGRAPHY GUIDE
BEST SHOTS
- — Metasequoia tree-lined path (especially beautiful during autumn)
- — Autumn foliage reflections around Nagatani Pond
- — Forest landscapes in tree zones from around the world
BEST TIMING
- — Best for autumn foliage: Early to late November
- — Best for hydrangeas: Mid-June to mid-July
- — During autumn season, weekday mornings recommended to avoid crowds
Park closes at 5 PM (extended during autumn illumination). Due to expansive grounds, wear comfortable shoes and allow ample time. Peak seasons vary; check official website for latest information.
ESSENTIALS
- Opening Hours
- 9:00-17:00 (Entry until 16:30)
Closed: Wednesdays (or following day if national holiday), Year-end/New Year holidays
*Extended hours during autumn illumination period - cost
- Adults ¥300, Children (Elementary/Junior High) ¥150
Annual Pass 'Shiki Tricolor Card': Adults ¥900, Children ¥450 (Valid for 3 parks: Forest Botanical Garden, Suma Rikyu, Sorakuen. Valid for 1 year from purchase)
Credit cards accepted - Best Time
- Autumn foliage (November) is most popular. Early summer hydrangeas (June-July) and spring greenery (April-May) are also beautiful. Weekdays are relatively less crowded.
- Suggested Duration
- About 2 hours
- Access
- Free shuttle bus about 10 minutes from Kobe Electric Railway Kita-Suzurandai Station (scheduled service). Or about 40 minutes by bus from Sannomiya. Parking available (paid) for cars.
- Accessibility
- Located on Mt. Rokko with many slopes and stairs. Comfortable shoes essential. Free shuttle bus available (from Kita-Suzurandai Station).
