The Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway is a popular aerial lift in Kobe, Japan, providing scenic views of the city and Mount Rokko. It connects the base of the mountain to the Nunobiki Herb Garden and Observatory.
The ropeway stretches approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) and takes about 10 minutes to travel one way.
Passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the Kobe cityscape, Osaka Bay, and lush greenery of Mount Rokko as they ascend or descend the ropeway.
The ropeway generally operates from around 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours may vary depending on the season or weather conditions. It's advisable to check for specific timings before visiting.
Yes, there is an admission fee for using the ropeway. Visitors can purchase either one-way or round-trip tickets, with discounts often available for children or groups.
Traveler reviews
For gardening enthusiasts traveling to Kobe, Nunobiki Herb Gardens on Rokko Mountain is a noteworthy destination. The garden is accessible via a cable car located next to Shin-Kobe station, which ascends to the mountaintop, offering panoramic views of Kobe and Osaka. Travelers have the option to disembark at the halfway point and follow the path to the garden or remain on the cable car and descend via a walking path. Both routes are straightforward, providing flexibility for visitors. Additionally, a hiking trail is available for those seeking a more rigorous mountain trek.
The Nunobiki Herb Gardens is organized into thematic sections, comprising a rose garden, vegetable garden, hydrangea garden, chamomile garden, wildflower field, and herb and spice garden. Each season showcases its distinct allure. The gardens also encompass a greenhouse, a fragrance and spice museum.
This location has two exceptional highlights: the restaurant's breakfast service, which offers a culinary experience that is both visually appealing and delectable, and the garden's unique landscaping feature, where fragrant mint is cultivated among stone slabs, leaving a pleasant aroma on visitors' shoes and feet after strolling through.
What an amazing, old world, stylish and unique place! There are various gardens, aroma museums, and cafes. It is a beautiful floral masterpiece of an experience. Even though it was busy, I did not get overwhelmed, as the flowers were so calming. The herb garden is free of you hike/walk to the mansion, otherwise it cost money for the funicular to get up to the top of the mountain by the herb mansion. There are greenhouses with really neat and indicate sitting areas.
Wow, this was amazing! One of the highlights of our Japan trip. Would really recommend a trip to Kobe just to do this. Stunning views, really lovely garden centre and we did the hike all the way down. So beautiful. Food was tasty, although a little more expensive than usual but to be expected. Staff were friendly. Gondola on the way up was picturesque. Beautiful and well maintained.
Visiting Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway 神戸布引ハーブ園/ロープウェイ was a great experience. Taking the ropeway up the mountain gives a wonderful view of Kobe city, and as you rise higher you can enjoy both the mountain scenery and the city skyline below.
The gardens themselves are beautifully arranged, with seasonal flowers and herbs creating a relaxing atmosphere. In the evening, the lights and decorations make the whole place feel warm and charming. The way the lights reflect on the red and yellow leaves is especially mesmerising—almost like the trees are softly glowing.
From the top, the night view of Kobe is impressive, and seeing the city lights together with the mountain landscape feels very special. It’s a lovely combination of nature, scenery, and gentle illumination.
Overall, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway offers a peaceful and memorable experience, perfect for enjoying the beauty of Kobe from above. 🌿✨🌃
Visited the Kobe Herb Garden & Ropeway and the views were absolutely beautiful. Taking the cable car up the hill was already an experience on its own with such scenic views all around. Once at the top, there were food spots and restaurants where you could just sit and enjoy the atmosphere. You can actually hike up too! but i was definitely not wearing proper shoes for that so cable car it is 🤣 Still totally worth visiting especially if you love relaxing views and peaceful vibes.