Kikuseidai — Attraction in Kobe

Perched high atop Mount Maya, Kikuseidai offers visitors a breathtaking vantage point from which to admire the twinkling lights of Kobe and the surrounding region, as well as to marvel at the beauty of the night sky. As its name suggests, Kikuseidai, or "Star Viewing Platform," is the perfect spot for stargazing and taking in the majesty of the cosmos.

Accessing Kikuseidai typically involves a journey by cable car or hiking trail, both of which offer their own unique perspectives on the surrounding landscape. Whether ascending through lush forests on foot or gliding smoothly through the air in a cable car, the journey to Kikuseidai is an adventure in itself, promising stunning views and memorable experiences along the way.

Upon reaching the platform, we are greeted by panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see, with the lights of Kobe twinkling below like a sea of stars. The city's bustling streets and illuminated landmarks create a mesmerizing tableau against the backdrop of the darkened sky, while the tranquil beauty of the surrounding mountains adds a sense of serenity and grandeur to the scene.

As night falls and the sky darkens, Kikuseidai truly comes alive, offering an unrivaled opportunity to observe the wonders of the night sky. Away from the glare of city lights, the stars shine brightly overhead, their brilliance illuminating the darkness and inspiring awe and wonder in all who behold them. Visitors can spend hours gazing up at the heavens, picking out constellations, and marveling at the beauty and vastness of the cosmos.

In addition to stargazing, Kikuseidai also offers opportunities for relaxation and reflection, with benches and seating areas where visitors can sit back, unwind, and soak in the tranquil ambiance of the mountain surroundings. Whether alone, with loved ones, or in the company of fellow stargazers, Kikuseidai provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and find moments of serenity and...

Despite it is a little expensive, the view up there is spetacular. Be prepared for the strong and cold wind up there during spring time. Check on weather forecast too before deciding to go up. Now there are 2 busline will stop at maya cable station. One is the usual bus no18 that u can ride from sannomiya station, another one is saka bus which did not pass by sannomiya. For saka bus, we can still go back to osaka with hankyu line at hankyu ojikeon station but only the normal train which stops at all station along the route and slower. If it is not too crowded, i will still suggest to use bus no 18. From sannomiya station, at least you can choose from hanshin line, hankyu...

Fantastic, amazing view of one of the world's great metro areas. Just that alone is worth coming up for. Nice cable car and funicular railway. Kids really enjoyed that.

To top it off was a 5 star barbecue over charcoal. Cooked it at our own outdoor table. You have to order this in advance, however, so they have the meats. Absolutely excellent, 6 star. Cute little cafe indoors, books, decent snacks, ice cream. All food quite reasonably priced. An old Zen monastery right above with trails. There is a lot to do and see up here.

When in Kobe, this is a must visit. Very slow and peaceful on a spring...