“Kobe Municipal House of Nature” had been loved by Kobe’s locals as an outdoor education-related facility for primary and middle school students since 1973. After five decades of its great history, the facility was proudly reborn as an amusement spot where a wide range of groups from kids to adults can take pleasure in various outdoor activities and experiences!
The concept of this new facility is “A place that stimulates your creativity”. Let’s unleash your creativity, try a variety of fun outdoor activities, and learn about Mt. Maya’s bountiful nature! We will share some of the highlights of the Kobe Nature House with you.
Take Maya Cable Car and head toward Mt. Maya!
En route to Hoshino Eki Station from Maya Cable Station, a spectacular panoramic view of the season will captivate you.
After getting off the cable car at Hoshino Eki Station, Maya Kikuseidai is situated just before your eyes.
There are 3 major ways to get to the Kobe Nature House from here.
1: Trekking
About a 30-minute walk will take you to the Nature House from Maya Kikuseidai. As the path is downhill and relatively gentle, you will be able to feel Mt. Maya’s beautiful nature with fresh air while trekking.
2: Mayachari service (Rental electric-assisted bicycle)
*Closed on Tuesday (Reservation needed)
https://coubic.com/mayasan/552084 (Japanese)
Related article is below↓(URL)
https://kobe-rokko.jp/en/events/485/ (English)
3: Rokko・Maya Sky Shuttle Bus
https://www.rokkosan.com/top/access/?lang=en (English)
It only takes about 5 minutes to reach the destination!
Check the arrival time of Maya Cable Car and the departure time of the bus before you fix your plan!
The gate of Kobe Nature House
At the entrance, the classic signboard of the former facility “Kobe Municipal House of Nature” will welcome your visit.
As Kobe Municipal House of Nature was used for educational purposes by Kobe’s local schools or was used for multiple activities by lifetime education-related organizations, those who learned at Kobe’s local primary school or middle school might recall their sweet memories of when they visited this property a long time ago.
Presently, two types of accommodations are organized in the House.
・Hostel (Maya facility) Maya-to-Maru
・Campsite
https://kobe-sizennoie.com/stay/ (Japanese)
A cabin area is scheduled to open in around October 2024. This unique area would be the area where you can spend time with wonderful artworks.
(Kobe Nature House Facility Map)
■Hostel (Maya facility) Maya-to-Maru■
https://kobe-sizennoie.com/stay/hostel/ (Japanese)
On one hand, the appearance of the former facility Kobe Municipal House of Nature, which had been regarded as a summer camp facility, remains as it was. And on the other hand, the interiors are amazingly renovated to welcome new guests.
This 3-story building is now open for everyone. The big room (as shown in the photos below) with bunk beds is suitable for a large group such as a family or students.
Each floor has its own color concept which is inspired by Mt. Maya’s nature. The first floor is yellow (the concept: soil), the second floor is green (the concept: vegetation), and the third floor is blue (the concept color: sky).
■Campsite■
Pick a campsite from the 4 types (A-D) which best suits your preference.
https://kobe-sizennoie.com/stay/camp/ (Japanese)
This site (as shown in the photos below) is B type (Auto-camping site) “Komorebi-to-Ten-to”
The site, which offers the power outlets, allows guests to park their cars.
As the maximum width of the site is 12 meters, the visitors can indulge in their own style of camping by using their favorite gear in the huge and cozy property.
The reception of the camp and activities is located in the center of the campsites.
■Center House Morino Kokoko■
Shower rooms and restrooms are provided in the Center House. A garbage collection area for campers is well-arranged as well.
Also, the Center House will accept hikers who only visit Lake Hodaka to use the restroom and shower service! Even if you are not campers, that’s no problem at all! Feel free to swing by and freshen up while hiking! Before using the service, please sign in at the reception of the Center House, pay the service fee (300 yen per 5 minutes) and receive the password to unlock the entrance of the House.
https://kobe-sizennoie.com/play/ (Japanese)
Next, we will show you some fun and enjoyable activities which you can experience in various locations surrounded by Mt. Maya’s nature. Open your five senses and boost your excitement!
■Adventure obstacle courses Kids Scheel ■
This authentic obstacle courses make use of Maya’s natural geographical features. (Free of charge)
https://kobe-sizennoie.com/play/athletic/ (Japanese)
Let’s begin your adventure here!
It’s recommended that children play with their guardians.
Please wear athletic or comfortable clothing for mountain climbing since the last part of the course is especially tough!
■SUP/Rowboat■
https://kobe-sizennoie.com/play/sup-boat/ (Japanese)
At Lake Hodaka, exciting activities, which include a mega SUP (capacity: up to 8 people) and a rowboat, are ready to entertain you in this upcoming leisure season.
https://kobe-sizennoie.com/cafe/(Japanese)
Café “Scheel Miele” which is right next to Lake Hodaka, opened in April.
As a new relaxing spot, it’s been gaining visitors’ attention since its grand opening! On top of that, all the menu items can be taken to go! What do you say to taking a detour here, getting something to eat, and unwinding for a while?
Ohagi combo is one of the recommended items!
Ohagi combo (Ohagi & Matcha warabi mochi) 429 yen (tax included)
*Ohagi : Japanese sweet rice ball / *Warabi mochi: bracken-starch dumpling
Hidamari Ramune sodapop 550 yen (tax included)
Iced café latte 605 yen (tax included)
It would also be a good idea to relish their signature coffee or meals while loosening up and appreciating the lake view from your seat inside the comfy café.
The way to enjoy this renovated Kobe Nature House is all up to you!
Why don’t you make plans with your family or friends to visit this delightful spot together?
Facility Information
Kobe Nature House ~ A place that stimulates your creativity ~
https://kobe-sizennoie.com/ (Japanese)
Address: 1-1 Nakaichiriyama Rokkosan-cho Nada-ku Kobe
Tel: 078-891-0001 (Japanese)
