Autumn
Course No.①
Mt. Higashi-Otafuku to Zuihoji Park
A diverse route starting from Ashiya River or Okamoto through which you can also head for Amagatoge.
The roads are mostly paved, making it easy to walk.
Enjoy the Susuki grass, which can only be seen in autumn, along with the panoramic view from the top of Mt. Higashi-Otafuku!
History
Origin and History of Mt. Higashi-Otafuku to Zuihoji Park
Near the summit of Mt. Higashi-Otafuku, famous as the only grassy mountain in Rokko, there is an expanse of Susuki grass. Before the war, over 80 hectares of grassland were maintained to obtain susuki grass, which was used as a material for thatched roofs. After the war, the use of this grass decreased, and human intervention ceased, leading to dominance by nezasa (a plant of the Gramineae family). However, currently, the Semi-Natural Grassland Restoration and Conservation Society of Mt. Higashi-Otafuku manages the conservation of susuki grass.
Zuihoji Park is located in the southeast part of Arima Onsen, and the once prosperous Zuihoji Temple was abandoned in 1873, with only its gate remaining. It is now beloved as a park of Kobe City, and in autumn, around 2,500 maple trees color the landscape. It is said that when Toyotomi Hideyoshi saw this scenery, he remarked, "No matter how many times I see it, I never tire of it," also earning the park the nickname "Garden of the Setting Sun." Typically, the leaves begin to change color in early November and reach their peak in late November.
Spot
Sights and Landmarks
Sights and Landmarks
Near the summit of Mt. Higashi-Otafuku, there is a grassy plain where you can enjoy the autumn scenery.
Efforts are currently being made to regenerate the susuki grassland.
Healing Forest
Heading from Amagatoge to Arima, you'll come across the Healing Forest. Many people stop by the highest peak of Rokko on their way to Arima.
Zuihoji Park
A leading spot for autumn leaves. It offers a stunning view that was admired by Toyotomi Hideyoshi himself.
Zuihoji Temple Gate
Although Zuihoji Temple was abandoned in 1873, its site was converted into Zuihoji Park in 1951.
This gate, located near the entrance of the park, has a charming atmosphere and is best enjoyed alongside the autumn colors of the maple trees.
Please check out detailed information by using mountain maps or web applications
beforehand and enjoy your fun and safe hiking!
The trailhead for Mt. Higashi-Otafuku is conveniently accessible
via the Hankyu Bus bound for "Higashi Otafukuyama Tozanguchi"!
Mt. Higashi-Otafuku Trailhead
