Zuihoji Park

A great destination for autumn color in Hyogo

Japan Travel Staff

There are numerous places across Japan to enjoy the beauty of the autumn season, and one of Hyogo Prefecture's top spots is Zuihoji Park. Located in the Arima Onsen area which is known as one of the country's top hot springs destinations, the park is home to approximately 2500 maple trees that ensure some ultra vibrant color. History buffs also have a reason to stop by the park ― it was a favorite of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a samurai and daimyo (feudal lord) of the late Sengoku period.

Along with the spectacular natural beauty to enjoy, the park grounds are home to a gate which was once located at Kyoto's Fushimi Castle, a thirteen-storied stone pagoda, and a tea house which hosts an annual tea ceremony on November 2nd and 3rd. The tea ceremony typically coincides with the leaves being at their best, so be sure to stop by if you're in the area.

Outside the teahouse during autumn (Photo: 663highland / CC BY 2.0)

If you can't visit the area during the autumn months, the park is also a popular destination during spring when the cherry trees are in bloom ― in fact, it has been designated by Kobe City as one of the top 50 places to enjoy sakura season in the region.

Admission to the park is free of charge.

Zuihoji Park is located around 15 minutes on foot (or a 5 minute cab ride) from Arima Onsen Station, which is served by the Shintetsu Arima Line.

For those who opt to drive, the park is around 5 minutes from the Nishinomiya Yamaguchi Minami IC on the Hanshin Expressway, or around 15 minutes from the Chugoku Expressway's Nishinomiya Kita IC. Paid on-site parking is available, but do note that there is a price difference for parking on weekdays and weekends. On weekdays the parking fee is ¥ 600, but on weekends the fee increases to ¥ 1000.