Futatatabi Park (Hyogo Prefecture) Complete Guide | Access, Highlights, and Seasonal Enjoyment
About Futatatabi Park
Futatatabi Park (再度公園) is a natural and verdant urban park located at the base of Futatatabi Mountain in the Rokko Mountain range, in Kita Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture. Opened in 1937 (Showa 12), this park forms a beautiful landscape where forests and an artificial pond harmonize around Shohokuhara Pond as the centerpiece.
Despite its excellent location—just about 20 minutes by car from Sannomiya, the heart of Kobe—the park is blessed with a rich natural environment and has long been cherished by citizens as a place of respite. For the port city of Kobe, which developed as a narrow stretch of land extending east to west, the Rokko Mountains looming behind are not merely a timber resource, but have been positioned as an important natural environment area that provides rest and recreation functions in urban life.
National Designation as a Scenic Area and Historical Value
Futatatabi Park is designated as a national scenic site as “Futatatabi Park, Futatatabi Mountain Permanent Vegetation Preservation Area, and Kobe Foreign Cemetery,” possessing high value not only in natural landscapes but also in history and culture. Throughout the park, historically fascinating locations are scattered, including the permanent vegetation preservation area, Kobe Foreign Cemetery, and the birthplace of Rokko Mountain afforestation (1902~).
The name “Futatatabi” (literally “again”) derives from a legend that Kobo Daishi (Kukai) visited this place a second time, making it a location with deep ties to faith since ancient times.
Basic Information about Futatatabi Park
Location and Access
Location
4-1 Nakaichirizanshita, Shimotanigami, Yamada-cho, Kita Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture
Access Methods
By Car
- Approximately 20 minutes from Sannomiya Station
- Via Futatatabi Drive Way
- Parking: Free (capacity for approximately 50 vehicles)
By Public Transportation
- Kobe City Bus Route 25 (bound for Forest Botanical Garden) from Sannomiya Bus Terminal
- Operating period: Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays only from late March to November
- Get off at Futatatabi Park stop
- Travel time: Approximately 30 minutes
Usage Information
Opening Hours
Open at all times (excluding some facilities)
Admission Fee
Free
Parking
Free (Early arrival is recommended during busy seasons such as autumn foliage season)
Inquiries
Kobe City Construction Bureau Park Management Division
Highlights of Futatatabi Park
Landscape Centered on Shohokuhara Pond
Shohokuhara Pond, located at the center of Futatatabi Park, is a symbolic landmark of the park. Surrounding the pond extends a Red Pine forest nearly 100 years old, creating beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons. The image of trees reflected in the pond’s water surface brings visitors tranquility and healing.
A walking trail has been developed around the pond, allowing leisurely strolls. Many wooden benches and tables are set up, making the area lively with families enjoying picnics and hikers taking breaks.
Kobe Foreign Cemetery
The Kobe Foreign Cemetery within Futatatabi Park is a historically precious cultural asset. Following the port’s opening in the Meiji era, it is the burial place of foreigners who lived in and died in Kobe, and forms part of the national scenic site designation.
Viewing Information
- General admission: By advance reservation only
- Open dates: Fourth Sunday of each month from April to November annually
- Reservation method: Check the official Kobe City website
Within the cemetery, gravestones of numerous foreigners who contributed to Kobe’s development are lined up, conveying the history of the international city of Kobe to the present day.
Futatatabi Mountain Permanent Vegetation Preservation Area
The Futatatabi Mountain Permanent Vegetation Preservation Area is a zone established to protect the natural vegetation of the Rokko Mountain range. A state close to primeval forest untouched by human hands is maintained, serving as an important role in ecosystem research and environmental education.
Birthplace of Rokko Mountain Afforestation
Within Futatatabi Park lies the birthplace of the Rokko Mountain afforestation project that began in 1902 (Meiji 35). You can learn about the history of the afforestation project that transformed the barren Rokko Mountain into a verdant mountain, and feel the origins of the beautiful forest landscape seen today.
Forest Playground and Grass Lawn
The “Forest Playground,” a natural play area where children can play using their whole bodies, is a popular spot for families. Rather than artificial play equipment, it is a play area utilizing natural terrain and trees, providing an ideal environment for developing children’s creativity and physical abilities.
The grass lawn is also spacious, allowing for various activities such as picnics and ball games.
Futatatabi Park’s Charm Throughout the Four Seasons
Spring (March to May)
Spring at Futatatabi Park is a season of beautiful new greenery. Particularly from late April to May, azaleas planted throughout the park reach their peak bloom, adding vibrant colors to the area around Shohokuhara Pond.
- Azalea peak bloom: Late April to early May
- New green hiking: Ideal hiking season with refreshing weather
- Bird watching: Spring is a season when wild birds are active
Summer (June to August)
Summer at Futatatabi Park sees temperatures lower than in the city center, attracting those seeking coolness. The forest-surrounded environment is ideal for escaping the heat of urban areas.
- As a cool refuge: 3 to 5 degrees Celsius cooler than the city center
- From light green to deep green: Opportunity to enjoy forest bathing
- Summer bus service: Access via public transportation is available
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is the most beautiful season at Futatatabi Park. Known as one of the finest autumn foliage spots in the Rokko Mountains, it attracts many tourists.
- Autumn foliage peak bloom: Early to mid-November
- Types of foliage: Maple, Japanese maple, and ginkgo
- Recommended photography spots: Autumn foliage reflected in Shohokuhara Pond
- Hiking season: Hiking while enjoying autumn foliage is popular
The contrast between the Red Pine forest around Shohokuhara Pond and the autumn foliage of broadleaf trees is spectacular, and the sight of foliage reflected in the pond’s water surface is breathtakingly beautiful.
Winter (December to February)
Winter at Futatatabi Park is enveloped in silence, with a dignified atmosphere. When there is snow accumulation, it presents a different appearance.
- Snow scenery: Fantastical landscape when snow accumulates
- Winter bird watching: A season suitable for birdwatching
- Quiet strolls: Few visitors, allowing for peaceful time
Activities at Futatatabi Park
Hiking and Trekking
Futatatabi Park connects to major hiking courses such as the Rokko Full Mountain Traverse Route and Daishi Trail, making it ideal as a hiking base.
Main Hiking Courses
- Shohokuhara Pond Loop Course (For Beginners)
- Duration: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Distance: Approximately 2km
- Difficulty: Low
- Daishi Trail Course (For Intermediate Level)
- Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours
- A historic path continuing toward Mount Maya
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Rokko Full Mountain Traverse Route (For Advanced)
- A full-fledged traverse route passing through Futatatabi Park
- Difficulty: High
Picnicking and Forest Bathing
Around Shohokuhara Pond and the grass lawn, you can enjoy picnicking. Numerous wooden benches and tables are installed, allowing you to bring a packed lunch and dine while enjoying nature.
Bird Watching
The rich forest environment is ideal as a habitat for wild birds, allowing observation of various species throughout the year. Especially during the spring and autumn migration seasons, there is a chance to encounter rare birds.
Nature Observation and Environmental Learning
There are numerous spots suitable for environmental learning, such as the permanent vegetation preservation area and the birthplace of afforestation. It is also utilized as a place for children’s nature education.
Facilities and Services Around Futatatabi Park
Tea Houses and Cafes
Tea houses and takeout cafes within the park offer light meals and refreshments. They are ideal for hiking breaks or enjoying tea while viewing the scenery.
Log House
A log house in the park can be used as a rest area. It also functions as a shelter in bad weather.
Restrooms and Rest Areas
Multiple restrooms and rest areas are installed throughout the park, providing a comfortable environment.
Recommended Tourist Spots Around Futatatabi Park
Kobe City Arboretum
Located about 5 minutes by car from Futatatabi Park, the Arboretum spans 142.6 hectares with trees from around the world. Also known as a famous autumn foliage spot, it is recommended to visit together with Futatatabi Park.
Mount Maya
Mount Maya, which connects to Futatatabi Park via hiking courses, features Kikuhoshi Terrace, counted among “Japan’s Three Greatest Night Views.” The view from an elevation of 702 meters is spectacular.
Mount Rokko
The central figure of the Rokko Mountains, Mount Rokko, hosts diverse tourist facilities including Rokko Garden Terrace, Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, and Rokko Musical Box Museum.
Arima Hot Spring
Located on the north side of Mount Rokko, Arima Hot Spring is known as one of Japan’s three oldest hot springs. A popular plan is to soothe tired muscles in the hot spring after hiking at Futatatabi Park.
Gourmet Information Around Futatatabi Park
Cafes Along Futatatabi Drive Way
Cafes and restaurants with fine views are scattered along Futatatabi Drive Way. Dining with a view overlooking Kobe city is exceptional.
Gourmet in Kobe City Center
The Sannomiya area has numerous restaurants where you can enjoy Kobe gourmet, including Kobe beef. Access from Futatatabi Park is convenient.
Precautions When Visiting Futatatabi Park
Clothing and Items to Bring
- Clothing: Comfortable clothing, easy-to-walk shoes (sneakers or trekking shoes)
- Season-appropriate preparations: Sun hat and sunscreen in summer, warm clothing in winter
- Items to bring: Drinking water, towel, insect repellent spray (summer), rain gear
Safety Measures
- When using hiking courses, confirm the route in advance
- Avoid solo travel; travel with multiple people is recommended
- If weather worsens, do not hesitate to turn back
- Be aware of the possibility of encountering wild animals (wild boar), requiring caution
Manners
- Always take your trash with you
- Plant collection is prohibited
- Fire use is only in designated areas
- Be mindful of noise and considerate of other visitors
Futatatabi Park’s Congestion and Best Visiting Times
Peak Congestion Periods
- Autumn foliage season (early to mid-November): Most crowded period
- Golden Week: Busy with families
- Weekends and holidays: More crowded than weekdays
Relatively Uncrowded Periods
- Weekdays: Particularly Tuesday through Thursday are less crowded
- Winter season: Fewer visitors, allowing for quiet time
- Early morning: Early morning strolls are recommended with fewer people
Best Timing
For enjoying autumn foliage, early to mid-November on weekday mornings is recommended. You can experience beautiful foliage while avoiding crowds. The new green season (late April to May) is also refreshing and pleasant.
History and Cultural Background of Futatatabi Park
Opening in the Early Showa Period
Futatatabi Park was opened in 1937 (Showa 12). At the time, as Kobe City was developing rapidly, the park was developed to preserve the natural environment as a place of respite for citizens.
Connection to Rokko Mountain Afforestation Project
In the Meiji era, Rokko Mountain was a barren mountain, but through the afforestation project beginning in 1902, it was transformed into the verdant landscape seen today. Futatatabi Park is the birthplace of this afforestation project and an important location conveying the history of environmental conservation.
History of Kobe Foreign Cemetery
Many foreigners resided in the port city of Kobe, and those who died among them are buried in the Kobe Foreign Cemetery. The cemetery houses merchants, missionaries, engineers, and others who contributed to Kobe’s development, telling the story of the international city of Kobe’s history.
Event Information at Futatatabi Park
Kobe Foreign Cemetery General Admission
General admission of the Kobe Foreign Cemetery, held on the fourth Sunday of each month from April to November annually, is a precious opportunity to touch important historical culture. Since advance reservation is required, check the details on the official Kobe City website.
Special Events During Autumn Foliage Season
Various events may be held at surrounding facilities during the autumn foliage season. Details can be confirmed on Kobe City’s tourism information website.
Model Courses Using Futatatabi Park as a Base
Half-Day Course (For Beginners)
Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours
- Depart from Sannomiya Station (20 minutes by car)
- Arrive at Futatatabi Park, use parking
- Stroll around Shohokuhara Pond (1 hour)
- Picnic on grass lawn (1 hour)
- Play at Forest Playground (30 minutes)
- Take a break at cafe (30 minutes)
- Return to Sannomiya Station
Full-Day Course (For Intermediate Level)
Duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours
- Depart from Sannomiya Station (20 minutes by car)
- Arrive at Futatatabi Park
- Stroll around Shohokuhara Pond (1 hour)
- Daishi Trail hiking (2 to 3 hours)
- Lunch at Futatatabi Park (1 hour)
- Visit Kobe City Arboretum (1 to 2 hours)
- Return to Sannomiya Station
Full-Day Course with Hot Spring
Duration: Approximately 8 hours
- Depart from Sannomiya Station
- Hiking at Futatatabi Park (3 to 4 hours)
- Move to Arima Hot Spring (30 minutes by car)
- Bathe in hot spring and have lunch (2 to 3 hours)
- Stroll through Arima Hot Spring town (1 hour)
- Return to Sannomiya Station
Photography Spots at Futatatabi Park
Shohokuhara Pond Water Surface
The water surface of the pond reflecting trees and sky is a spot where beautiful photographs can be taken throughout the four seasons. Particularly recommended are the autumn foliage season and new green season.
Red Pine Forest
The Red Pine forest nearly 100 years old is photogenic with beautiful contrast between the reddish-brown trunks and green leaves.
Kobe Foreign Cemetery
On general admission days, you can photograph the unique atmosphere where historic gravestones and surrounding nature harmonize (be mindful of photography etiquette).
Conclusion
Futatatabi Park is a natural and verdant urban park easily accessible from Kobe city center. It boasts diverse attractions including beautiful scenery centered on Shohokuhara Pond, the historically valuable Kobe Foreign Cemetery and permanent vegetation preservation area, seasonal changes in nature, and well-developed hiking courses.
While particularly famous as an autumn foliage destination, it offers different charms year-round: spring azaleas, summer coolness, and winter serenity. The park’s appeal lies in its versatility for various purposes—family picnics, serious hiking, nature observation, and historical learning.
When visiting Kobe, in addition to city sightseeing, be sure to experience Futatatabi Park to touch the rich nature and history of the Rokko Mountains. You will be able to spend time refreshing both mind and body, away from urban bustle.
