What to know
Sorakuen (相楽園, Sōrakuen) is a traditional Japanese landscape garden located in the heart of Kobe. Completed in the early 20th century, it was originally part of the residence of Kodera Kenkichi, a former mayor of Kobe. The garden opened to the public in 1941 and showcases classic Japanese garden elements alongside unique structures that reflect Kobe's cosmopolitan past.
Most of the original buildings in the garden were destroyed during World War II, but one survived: an ornate European-style stable that stands as a testament to Western influence on Meiji Era Japanese architecture. Additionally, the Hassam House, a stately home built in 1902 for a foreign trader, was relocated to Sorakuen from the Kitano district in 1963.
Sorakuen is a ten-minute walk north of Motomachi Station (JR and Hanshin Railways) and a five-minute walk north of Kencho-mae Station (Kobe Subway).
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
- Closed
- Thursdays (or following day if Thursday is a national holiday)
- Admission
- 300 yen (~$1.92)
- English name
- Sorakuen
- Original name
- Sorakuen Garden
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.