Higashi Yuenchi Park is a tranquil green space located in the heart of Kobe, just south of Sannomiya Station. Often referred to as a “mini-oasis,” the park offers a peaceful retreat amidst the urban landscape. It features open lawns, shaded walkways, and seating areas, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and casual strolls. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, including weekend farmers’ markets and seasonal festivals.
Across the street from the park stands Kobe City Hall, whose 24th-floor observation deck provides panoramic views of the city. This free-access deck offers vistas of Kobe’s skyline, the harbor, and the surrounding mountains. It’s a popular spot for both tourists and locals to appreciate the city’s scenery from above.
Higashi Yuenchi Park is also a site of remembrance, featuring memorials dedicated to the victims of the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. These include the “1.17 Memorial,” which commemorates the time the earthquake struck.
The park continues across Flower Road toward the waterfront, offering even more green space and a few hidden gems. This section of the park is home to the historic former Kobe Club building, a charming Western-style structure that once hosted one of the city’s earliest international social clubs. Today, the area also features a restaurant set in a traditional villa, offering a picturesque spot for lunch or coffee in a relaxed, garden-like setting. Families will appreciate the children’s library, a colourful and inviting facility popular with locals, especially for its striking floral clock—a huge, working timepiece made entirely of seasonal flowers that makes for a memorable photo stop.
Whether you’re seeking a quiet place to unwind or a starting point to explore Kobe’s attractions, Higashi Yuenchi Park offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and accessibility.
Higashi Yuenchi Park is connected to exit C8 of Sannomiya Station while Kobe City Hall is connected exit C7.
