Background

Zuihoji Park: A Historical Retreat in Arima Onsen

Discover vibrant autumn foliage, historical landmarks, and serene walking trails in Kobe's Zuihoji Park, a favorite retreat of samurai Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

4.1
A question is required

Zuihoji Park, nestled in the Arima Onsen area of Kobe, offers a serene escape with stunning seasonal beauty. Once the site of Zuihoji Temple, the park is now famous for its vibrant autumn foliage, historical connections to samurai Toyotomi Hideyoshi, and tranquil atmosphere.

A brief summary to Zuihoji Park

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the autumn months (November) for the most vibrant display of maple tree colors.
  • If you can't make it in autumn, the park is also beautiful in spring during the cherry blossom season.
  • Check out the annual tea ceremony held on November 2nd and 3rd for a cultural experience.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the well-maintained walking trails for a peaceful escape.
  • History buffs should look for the stone go board, said to be a favorite of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Arima Onsen Station, Zuihoji Park is approximately a 15-minute walk. Head east from the station, following signs for the park. The route involves a slight uphill climb.

  • Public Transport

    From Kobe, take the Shintetsu Arima Line to Arima Onsen Station. From the station, it's a 15-minute walk to Zuihoji Park. Alternatively, take the JR Express Bus from Sannomiya Station to Arima Onsen. From the Arima Onsen bus stop, the park is a short walk away. Bus fare is approximately ¥1400.

  • Taxi

    From Arima Onsen Station, a taxi ride to Zuihoji Park takes about 5 minutes. Taxi fare is approximately ¥800 - ¥1000. Taxis are readily available at the station.

  • Driving

    If driving, Zuihoji Park is about 5 minutes from the Nishinomiya Yamaguchi Minami IC on the Hanshin Expressway, or 15 minutes from the Nishinomiya Kita IC on the Chugoku Expressway. Paid parking is available at the park. Weekday parking costs ¥600, while weekend parking costs ¥1000.

Unlock the Best of Zuihoji Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

q

Discover more about Zuihoji Park

Zuihoji Park, located in the Arima Onsen area of Kobe, is a celebrated destination that blends natural beauty with historical significance. The park resides on the grounds of the former Zuihoji Temple, which was abandoned in the early Meiji Period. Today, it is renowned as one of Hyogo Prefecture's prime locations for viewing autumn foliage, boasting approximately 2,500 maple trees that create a vibrant tapestry of color. History buffs will appreciate the park's connection to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a prominent samurai and feudal lord of the late Sengoku period, who favored the spot for its scenic views. He is said to have enjoyed the area so much that he named it the 'garden of leisure', expressing that he could spend eternity there without growing tired of the view. A stone go board, believed to be one of Hideyoshi's favorite game sets, is preserved within the park. Aside from its autumn splendor, Zuihoji Park is also a popular destination in spring when the cherry trees are in bloom, earning it recognition as one of Kobe City's top 50 places to enjoy the sakura season. The park features a gate that was once part of Kyoto's Fushimi Castle, as well as a thirteen-storied stone pagoda and a tea house where an annual tea ceremony is held on November 2nd and 3rd. This ceremony often coincides with the peak of the autumn colors. Whether you're drawn by the vibrant foliage, the historical ambiance, or the peaceful walking trails, Zuihoji Park provides a tranquil retreat from the urban bustle.

Popular Experiences near Zuihoji Park

Popular Hotels near Zuihoji Park

Select Currency