Top 5 Panoramic Spots in Kobe, A Harbor City Filled With Expression

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

This is the biggest suspension bridge in the world – measuring up to 3,911m – that connects Awaji Island in the Seto Inland Sea with Kobe City. The bridge is 47m above sea water, and comes with an experiential observatory with a total extension of 317m. Called the "Maiko Marine Promenade" (250 JPY and above for adults), you can experience walking on the glass floor, as well as enjoy the view of Osaka Bay and the Seto Inland Sea from the observatory lounge.
You may also join in the "Bridge World" (3,000 JPY for adults, reservation required), where you can climb up the main tower of the bridge (300m above sea water). Here, you can access the pathway that is usually off limits and reach the top with an elevator. You can get a clear view of Kobe City and a panorama of the sea. It is open from April to November (Thu – Sun, Public Holidays).

2. Mt. Rokko Observatory

This observatory is located on top of Mt. Rokko, which has an altitude of 737.5m. This spot is accessible via the Mt. Rokko cable car (1,000 JPY for a round-trip for adults). The wonderful view here has been chosen as one of Japan\'s Most Beautiful Night Views. At night, you can experience illuminations that give off a romantic atmosphere.
However, you may also have a taste of this sight during the daytime. Below you lies the city of Kobe, as well as the sea and a view of Osaka and Wakayama. If the weather permits, you should be able to see a sea of clouds!

3. Kobe Port Tower

Kobe Tower, which serves as the symbol of Kobe, is located at Nakatottei. This tower has a hyperboloid structure similar to that of a tsuzumi (Japanese traditional hand drum) and offers an impressive scene with a red accent. The tower lights up with 7,040 LED lamps at night, giving off a dreamy atmosphere.
The 5th floor (topmost floor) serves as an observatory, where you may view the city of Kobe and the harbor. You will be able to see the glimmering sea and blue sky, the sunset, and the sparkling night sky. There is a unique cafe within the tower that has rotating floors. Have a 360°view while enjoying some drinks and sweets.

Entrance Fee:
Adults: 700 JPY
Children: 300 JPY

4. Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden

This herb garden is accessible via sky-ropeway. Here, you can find around 75,000 flowers and herbs, of which there are 200 different varieties. This garden is the biggest herb garden in Japan.
It has 12 different sub-sections, which all differ in theme. You can enjoy taking a stroll while forest-bathing, as well as having lunch at their restaurant that makes use of freshly-picked herbs. The Garden Terrace – where you may host parties and enjoy homemade sweets – and the Herb Foot Bath, which makes use of seasonal herbs in warm water, are spots from where you can view panoramas such as the Kobe Sea, mountains, and the city.

Garden + Ropeway Round-trip:
Adults: 1,400 JPY
Children: 700 JPY

5. Rokko Garden Terrace

Rokko Garden Terrace offers a beautiful view of the night sky, as well as a huge panorama that spans Akashi Channel, Asahi Plain, and the Kansai International Airport. You may avail of various spots for viewing these sights, such as the Observatory Tower – which was built in an old European architecture style – as well as cafes and restaurants with glass walls that will let you enjoy the view while savoring your meal.
One particular place to visit would be the Rokko Shidare Observatory (300 JPY for adults), which is an observatory deck with a cypress roof, similar to that of an art piece. This observatory spot will let you experience nature by the season, as well as the landscape, while being enveloped by the gentle scent of wood. Here, depending on the season, you may enjoy a different view of the lights at night.

All the locations included in this article are popular among visitors. Please give them a go when you come to Kobe for sightseeing!