Board the retro cable car. A 10-minute journey through a green tunnel
About this spot
The base station of Rokko Cable, a historic cable car that opened in 1932. Board the retro vehicle here and ascend approximately 490 meters in elevation over about 10 minutes. The two-car train features one open observation car without windows. The breeze brushing your cheeks, green tunnel vistas filling the windows, and the moment of waving at the oncoming car create an irresistible experience for vehicle-loving children. The classically beautiful wooden interior captivates adults as well. Upon arrival at the summit station, the air is refreshingly cool, revealing an entirely different world about 5 degrees cooler than the city below. From the adjacent viewing platform, Tenrankyo (天覧台), you can see the city of Kobe and Osaka Bay, setting an exciting tone for the entire trip.
Tips
Take Kobe City Bus Route 16 from Hankyu Rokko Station, JR Rokko-michi Station, or Hanshin Miokage Station to the terminal 'Rokko Cable Shita' and alight. Cable cars operate at 10- to 20-minute intervals. At the summit, transfer to Rokko Mountain Bus to visit each spot. Discounted combo tickets for cable car and bus are available at the ticket window. Fold strollers for smooth boarding.
Best time to visit
Approximately 30 minutes. Mid-morning around 9 a.m. is ideal—before the peak tourist hours, and observation car seats are easier to choose.
Access & map
Japan, 〒657-0001 Hyogo Prefecture, Kobe City, Nada Ward, Takayu Nishiyama
Model course featuring this spot
Mount Rokko Cable Car and Garden Terrace Scenic Tour
Hyogo
Explore features & model courses
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