January 1, 2026 at 6:00 am
Event date:
January 1, 2026 at 5:00 am
Event end:

History

In Japan, watching the first sunrise of the year, known as hatsuhinode, is a deeply cherished tradition that symbolizes new beginnings, hope, and renewal. People across the country gather at scenic locations to witness the sunrise on January 1st, reflecting on the past year and making wishes for the year ahead. This practice combines spiritual significance with the beauty of nature, making it one of the most meaningful ways to start the New Year.

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The Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens has become a popular destination for hatsuhinode celebrations. Established as a botanical oasis on the slopes of Mount Rokko, the gardens offer panoramic views of Kobe City and Osaka Bay, providing an ideal setting to experience the sunrise. Over the years, it has attracted thousands of visitors eager to combine a scenic morning with cultural tradition.

The tradition at Kobe Nunobiki also emphasizes community and accessibility. By offering special early-morning ropeway operations and designated viewing terraces, the gardens make it possible for both locals and tourists to enjoy a serene and unforgettable start to the year. This combination of natural beauty, careful planning, and cultural celebration makes the Hatsuhinode event at the gardens a distinctive Japanese experience.

Overview

The Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden Hatsuhinode 2026 will be held in early January 2026, with the ropeway opening at 6:00 AM to allow visitors to ascend to the summit in time for the sunrise. The first and second floor terraces at the garden are recommended as prime spots to enjoy the view, overlooking Kobe City and Osaka Bay. The sun is expected to rise around 7:05 AM, so early arrival is advised for the best experience.

Visitors can enjoy both the beauty of the gardens and the spiritual significance of hatsuhinode. The early opening allows guests to experience the crisp morning air, tranquil surroundings, and spectacular panoramic views before the gardens open fully for regular daytime visitors. It’s a unique way to start the New Year with reflection, inspiration, and connection to nature.

Highlights

Watch the first sunrise of the year from Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens.
Breathtaking views of Kobe City, Mount Rokko, and Osaka Bay.
Special early ropeway operation starting at 6:00 AM.
Combine garden exploration with spiritual New Year traditions.
Perfect for photography, reflection, and family-friendly experiences.

Why Jasumo Recommends?

Offers one of the most scenic and peaceful sunrise experiences in Kobe.
Early access to terraces ensures the best viewing spots.
Special ticket includes both ropeway round-trip and garden admission.
Ideal for travelers seeking cultural and natural experiences.
Easily accessible via Shin-Kobe Ropeway and convenient city connections.

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Schedule

Date: Thursday, January 1st, 2026
Ropeway Operating Time: Starts from 6:00 AM for sunrise viewing
Sunrise: Expected around 7:05 AM

Pricing

Special New Year’s Hatsuhinode Ticket (includes ropeway round-trip + garden admission):

Adult (High School and above): ¥1,500
Child (Elementary & Junior High): ¥750
Preschool Child: Free

Note: The adult price of ¥1,500 is for the special New Year’s event, lower than the regular daytime ticket of ¥2,000.

Location

Venue: Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, 1 Chome-4-3 Kitanocho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0002, Japan

How to Get There:

By Ropeway: Take the Shin-Kobe Ropeway from Shin-Kobe Station directly to the Herb Garden Summit.
By Car: There is no on-site parking; visitors are advised to use nearby parking, such as the ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel or other local lots.

Accommodation Options

Kobe offers a range of accommodations from modern city hotels to boutique ryokans. Staying nearby allows visitors to enjoy early access to the sunrise event and explore the city’s attractions afterward, including Kitano Ijinkan and Harborland.

Average accommodation costs range from ¥8,000 to ¥20,000 per night, depending on the type of hotel or ryokan and amenities offered. Early booking is recommended due to the popularity of the New Year period.

FAQs

What is hatsuhinode at Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens?

It is the first sunrise of the year, celebrated with a special early ropeway ride to the garden terraces for viewing.

When is the event in 2026?

The event takes place on Thursday, January 1st, 2026, with ropeway operations starting at 6:00 AM.

How much does the special ticket cost?

Adult tickets are ¥1,500, children ¥750, and preschoolers are free. The ticket includes ropeway round-trip and garden admission.

Can I see the sunrise if it’s cloudy?

Visibility depends on weather conditions. It’s recommended to check the forecast in advance as the sunrise may not be visible on overcast mornings.

How can I get to Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens?

Take the Shin-Kobe Ropeway from Shin-Kobe Station, or drive and use nearby public parking options like ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel parking.

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