Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens

With the pleasant temperatures and bright days of spring, plants are at their finest this time of year. Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden, the largest facility of its kind in Japan, is exhibiting a beautiful succession of blooms at its Garden Fest until July 15. Stroll through 12 themed gardens that are teeming with blooming herbs and flowers like nemophila, pot marigolds, a variety of English roses, chamomiles, pansies and violas. A photo contest is also running till July 5, encouraging you to submit photos of your visit. While you’re there, enjoy a variety of flavours at the Garden’s restaurants, from German sausages and lamb brochettes at the Herb Marche to strawberry sweets and desserts at The Veranda Kobe, or opt for a curated picnic experience with wine, picnic blankets and baked goods. Admission to the park includes a round-trip or one-way ride on a cable car that takes you to the top of the park; tickets can be purchased at the door or online. Prices start at ¥2,000 for adults and ¥1,200 for children of elementary and junior high school age.