Mount Maya
Majestic Mount Maya: A Natural Wonder in Kobe
Mount Maya: Kobe's Million-Dollar View
Experience Kobe's iconic 'million-dollar night view' from Mount Maya, a blend of natural beauty and cultural history in the Rokko Mountains.
Mount Maya, a 698.6-meter peak in the Rokko mountain range, offers stunning panoramic views of Kobe and Osaka. Accessible by hiking trails or the Maya Viewline cable car and ropeway, it's famous for its 'million-dollar night view' from the Kikuseidai Observatory.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Mount Maya
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Mayasan, Kobe, Mayasan, Nada Ward, Hyogo, JP
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Sannomiya Station, take Kobe City Bus #18 to Maya Cable Shita bus stop (approx. 25 minutes). From JR Nada or Hankyu Oji Park Stations, take the Saka Bus to Maya Cable Shita (approx. 10 minutes). From Maya Cable Shita, transfer to the Maya Viewline, which includes the Maya Cable Car to Niji no Eki Station, then the Maya Ropeway to Hoshi no Eki Station at the summit. Cost: * Kobe City Bus #18: Approximately ¥210-230. * Saka Bus: ¥230. * Maya Viewline (Cable Car & Ropeway): One-way ¥900, Round-trip ¥1560 (Adult). One-way ¥450, Round-trip ¥780 (Child).
Walking
From Shin-Kobe Station, a hiking trail leads directly to Mount Maya, passing Nunobiki Falls. The trail continues through the forest, with an optional detour to the Nunobiki Herb Garden. Reaching Kikuseidai Observation Platform takes approximately 3-5 hours, depending on the chosen route. Be prepared for a steep ascent. Cost: Free, but consider the Maya Viewline for the descent if you prefer not to hike back down. See 'Public Transportation' for Maya Viewline costs.
Local tips
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Check the Maya Viewline schedule in advance, as operating hours vary by season and day of the week.
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Bring a jacket, as the summit can be significantly cooler than the city, especially at night.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the summit area and exploring the trails.
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Arrive early to secure a good spot at the Kikuseidai Observatory for the night view.
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Consider visiting Tenjō-ji Temple for a peaceful retreat and to learn about the mountain's history.
Discover more about Mount Maya
Mount Maya (摩耶山, Maya-san) is one of the most iconic mountains in the Rokko range, offering breathtaking views and a rich history. Named after Maya, the mother of Buddha, the mountain has been a sacred site for centuries. Visitors can explore Tenjō-ji temple, founded in 646, though the current structure was rebuilt after a fire in 1975. The temple enshrines a statue of Maya and is known as the Temple of Haiku, historically linked to the poet Yosa Buson.
The main draw is the Kikuseidai Observatory, famed as one of Japan's top three night views. The vista encompasses Kobe, Osaka Bay, and even as far as Wakayama on clear days. During the day, the lush greenery and natural beauty of the Setonaikai National Park provide a refreshing escape.
Reach the summit by hiking various trails, including the Tengu Trail, or take the scenic Maya Viewline, a combination of cable car and ropeway. At the top, enjoy the Maya View Terrace 702 with its café and BBQ terrace. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace, natural beauty, or a dazzling cityscape, Mount Maya offers a memorable experience.
A brief summary to Mount Maya
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