Hey there! So, I recently took a spontaneous trip to Kobe, just because I heard the autumn leaves there are absolutely stunning. Let me tell you, I was not disappointed. Picture this: the mountains are painted in shades of red, orange, and yellow, and the air is crisp and refreshing. It’s like stepping into a painting!
First stop was the Kobe Municipal Arboretum in Rokko Mountain. Honestly, I didn’t expect to be so blown away by a botanical garden, but wow! They have this international forest area where you can see different styles of autumn leaves from around the world. It’s like a global autumn wonderland. Plus, they host all kinds of events during peak season, which usually runs from mid-October to late November. Entry is about ¥300 (around $2 USD), so it’s super affordable.
Suma Rikyu Park: A Hidden Gem
Next up, I drove to Suma Rikyu Park. It’s this vast urban park with a European-style fountain garden—talk about a mix of cultures! The real charm, though, is the 600 maple trees that turn the place into a sea of colors. The view over Osaka Bay as the leaves change is something else. You can spend hours just wandering and taking it all in. If you go, try to catch the waterfalls reflecting the autumn hues. Entry here is also around ¥400 (about $3 USD).
A Touch of History at Maya-san Tenjo-ji Temple
For a bit of history with your foliage, check out Maya-san Tenjo-ji Temple. It’s perched on Mount Maya and offers breathtaking views all the way to Awaji Island on a clear day. The temple grounds are covered in brilliant red and yellow leaves, making it a sacred yet vibrant spot. It’s kind of a trek, but that just means fewer crowds! Honestly, I felt like a scene from a historical drama, walking among the maples.
Oh, and if you’re into cable cars, the Rokko-Arima Ropeway is a must! It connects the top of Rokko Mountain with the famous Arima Onsen in just 12 minutes. The views over the valleys are insane, especially when the hills are painted in those fiery autumn colors. The ride costs about ¥1,010 one way (around $7 USD).
Wrapping up my Kobe adventure, I realized this city’s more than just a port town—it’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm. If you’re up for it, give Kobe’s fall foliage a shot. Who knows, you might fall in love with the autumn magic too. And hey, if you do visit, shoot me a message about your experience. I’d love to hear what you think!
