Combining the meticulous design of a traditional Japanese garden with the appeal of Western architecture, Sorakuen Garden offers residents and visitors a tranquil spot to escape the busy streets of Kobe. Plan to spend a few hours of relaxation or meditation during your visit to Sorakuen Garden.
This space was first established as a splendid private garden for Taijiro Kodera, a wealthy businessman whose son later became mayor of Kobe.
The site was opened to the public in 1941, but sadly many of its original structures were destroyed by air raids on Kobe during World War II. Notice a two-story brick stable of German design created by architect Kozo Kawai it is the one remaining Western building that somehow survived Allied bombing attacks on Kobe in 1945.
Wander around to see other structures: a funayakata houseboat, the Kanshintei teahouse and the Hassam House, a majestic home of a foreign merchant relocated to the garden in 1963.
Carefully selected and arranged plants add color to the garden, especially from spring through fall. Azaleas create a blanket of varied shades of pink along the paths in April and May. Look for greens, oranges and reds in autumn when asymmetric evergreens, maples and other trees of varied sizes and shapes give the impression of a masterful painting. A light dusting of snow in winter creates a pretty picture that showcases the textural design of the garden.
Enjoy other features of this traditional Japanese garden. Stepping stones lead to a stone bridge over the peaceful pond filled with golden koi. Nearby is a camphor tree that is more than 500 years old. Another section is devoted to cycads, with feather-like leaves. Stone lanterns and planters filled with annuals are artistically arranged throughout the park-like setting.
Walk to Sorakuen Garden in about 10 minutes from the Motomachi railway station or 5 minutes from the Kencho-mae subway station.
The garden is open from morning through late afternoon from Fridays to Wednesdays. There is an entrance fee, which is discounted for young children. The garden offers a 5-acre (2-hectare) oasis in a busy part of Kobe.
