The Best Spots to See Cherry Blossoms in Kobe

Kobe Municipal Arboretum is a fantastic place to experience cherry blossoms in a natural setting. In April, over 10 types of cherry blossoms, including Yamazakura and Somei Yoshino, bloom and create a picturesque spring scene. Visitors can explore walking trails, picnic areas and scenic viewpoints, making it a perfect hanami destination.

• Closest station: Kita-Suzurandai station (Kobe Electric Railway)
• Closest Bus stop: There is a Free Shuttle Bus from Kita-Suzurandai station to the Park Entrance.
• Admission Fee: ¥300 (Adults), ¥150 (Children)
• Opening Hours: 9 A.M. – 5 P.M. (last entry 4:30 P.M.)

Shiawase-no-Mura, or the “Village of Happiness” is a spacious recreation facility home to lush nature, open lawns and various outdoor activities. Inside, the Japanese garden offers a peaceful setting to admire cherry blossoms in full bloom. The garden features a serene pond, traditional stone pathways and wooden bridges, all beautifully framed by delicate sakura (cherry) trees. Beyond the garden, guests can also explore campsites, sports facilities, accommodations and even a hot spring. It is the perfect destination for a cherry blossom viewing day.

• Closest station: Suzurandai station (Kobe Electric Railway)
• Best time: Late March to early April

Located near the iconic Ikuta Shrine, Ikutagawa Park is a beloved cherry blossom viewing spot that stretches along the Ikuta River. During spring, rows of cherry trees transform the riverbanks into a picturesque pink-lined walkway. Despite its urban setting, the cherry blossoms create a charming escape in the heart of Kobe city, blending nature and city convenience. It’s a favorite spot for locals and perfect for visitors looking to experience Kobe’s sakura season without venturing far.

• Closest station: Shin-Kobe station (Shinkansen, Kobe Municipal Subway)
• Best time: Late March to early April

Kobe Sogoundokoen Park is a spacious and family-friendly park with seasonal flower displays and plenty of cherry blossom trees. One of the park’s highlights is the Shade Garden-Sakura Road, a breathtaking 310-meter cherry blossom tunnel on the west side of the park, where visitors can walk under an archway of pink petals. On the east side, 50,000 bright yellow rape blossoms will bloom in spring. If you visit during early April, you may be lucky enough to see both the sakura and the rape blossoms blooming together.

• Closest station: Sogoundokoen station (Kobe Municipal Subway)
• Best time: Late March to early April

Stretching through Sanda City, the Mukogawa Sakura Zutsumi Corridor offers a breathtaking cherry blossom experience along the Muko River. With 5,000 cherry trees lining the riverbanks for 25 kilometers, this scenic route forms an impressive sakura tunnel, making it perfect for a stroll or a relaxing cycling trip during spring. This lesser-known hanami spot is a great alternative to Kobe’s more crowded locations, allowing visitors to enjoy the blossoms in a peaceful and serene setting. One of the highlights of this area is the 500-meter stretch near Go-no-Oto Hall, where the cherry trees are illuminated at night by traditional paper lanterns.

• Closest station: Mita station (JR Takarazuka Line or Kobe Electric Railway)
• Best Time to Visit: Late March to Early April
• Night Illuminations: Typically from sunset until late evening

Leading up to Mount Maya Cable station, Takaodori is a breathtaking cherry blossom-lined road that welcomes visitors with a stunning sakura tunnel each spring. The delicate pink petals contrast beautifully against the surrounding greenery, creating a picturesque entrance to one of Kobe’s most famous mountain viewpoints.

Just a short distance away, in a quiet residential area, you’ll also find Sakurazaka (Sakura Hill), another hidden gem where both sides of the street burst into bloom. This well-kept local secret offers a peaceful hanami experience away from the crowds. After enjoying the cherry blossoms, take the Maya Cable Car up Mount Maya for some of the best panoramic views of Kobe.

• Closest station: Maya Cable station
• Best time: Late March to early April

Nestled on a hillside overlooking Osaka Bay, Sumaura Park is a stunning spot to view cherry blossoms in Kobe. Despite being one of Kobe’s Top 50 Flower Spots, it is still considered a hidden gem amongst international visitors. The park comes alive during cherry blossom season and is open 24 hours a day, with free entry. Visitors can also hike to the park’s observation points for breathtaking views of cherry blossoms set against the backdrop of the sea.

• Closest station: Sumaura-Koen station
• Best time: Late March to early April

Japan’s famous hot spring town, Arima Onsen, transforms into a cherry blossom paradise every spring. Sakura trees line the banks of the Arima River that flows through the city. Each spring, the annual Arima Onsen Cherry Blossom Festival is held at the waterfront plaza, offering a delightful way to experience the season’s festivities while enjoying one of Kobe’s top cherry blossom viewing spots. After the festival, take some time to relax in one of the town’s renowned onsens. You can also ride the ropeway to the top of Mount Rokko, where you’ll be treated to spectacular views of cherry blossoms nestled among the mountains.

• Closest station: Arima-Onsen station
• Best time: Late March to early April

Although technically located in neighboring Nishinomiya, Shukugawa Park is a must-visit cherry blossom destination for anyone in the Kobe area. The cherry-lined Shukugawa River forms a breathtaking tunnel of pink petals, making it one of Hyogo Prefecture’s most scenic hanami spots. Stretching for four kilometers, the riverbank is beautifully lined with a mix of cherry blossoms and pine trees, offering a stunning contrast of delicate pink flowers against vibrant greenery.

• Closest station: Shukugawa station
• Best time: Late March to early April

Kobe City Oji Zoo is where visitors can enjoy the unique experience of seeing cherry blossoms alongside adorable animals. The zoo is famous for its approximately 480 Somei Yoshino cherry trees, making it a picturesque spot for hanami. For three days every year, during the cherry blossom season, the zoo hosts the Night Cherry Blossom Passage event, featuring stunning nighttime illuminations (free admission), though animals are not visible during this time.

• Closest station: Nada station/ Oji-koen station
• Best time: Late March to early April