kobe-forest-botanical-garden

Kobe Municipal Forest Botanical Garden

Expansive botanical garden utilizing Mt. Rokko's natural landscape. Features trees from around the world and Japanese autumn foliage. Peak autumn colors from early to late November. Annual pass (¥900) grants access to three parks including Suma Rikyu Park and Sorakuen Garden.

Kobe Municipal Forest Botanical Garden

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.

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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.

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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).

Check Official Info

Please check official site for hours, fees, etc.

View Official Info

Kobe Municipal Forest Botanical Garden

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