Cherish Nature! 10 Recommended Tourist Spots Around Suma Coast

When you think of Suma, the famous Suma Beach—renowned for its seaside swimming—is the first image that comes to mind. However, the area is also rich with parks, historical sites, and temples where you can enjoy traditional Japanese poetry. In this article, we introduce 10 recommended tourist spots around Suma Coast.

1. Kobe City Suma Kaihin Aquarium

If you visit Suma, the number one must-see attraction is the enormous aquarium where you can learn about the lives of various marine creatures. The aquarium even hosts shows that explain the abilities and behaviors necessary for fish to survive—complete with live demonstrations.

You can enjoy popular dolphin and sea otter shows, and although these interactive experiences are ticketed, you can also get up close with the dolphins and sea otters through touch-and-feeding sessions and even take photos with penguins. The aquarium also features extensive freshwater exhibits, making it well worth spending ample time there.

Every year from December through early February, the aquarium is transformed by an illumination event called “IlluminaJ,” which creates a fantastical, illuminated environment at night. With special dolphin shows enhanced by projection mapping, the venue makes for a wonderfully atmospheric date spot.

2. The Magnificent Temple Uenoyama Fukushōji (Sumadera), Also Considered the 11th of Kobe's 13 Buddhist Sacred Sites

Sumadera, the head temple of the Shingon Suma-dera sect, is a magnificent temple regarded as the 11th of Kobe’s 13 Buddhist sacred sites. Scattered throughout its grounds are haiku and poetry monuments, adding to its profound atmosphere. The temple is also famous for its association with the Genpei War; in the temple’s garden, a statue re-creates the legendary duel between Tadamori Taira and Naomasa Kumagai. With various features designed to engage even children, a thorough tour of the entire site can take about two hours.

The facilities are well-equipped and strongly committed to accessibility, making it easy for seniors and visitors with strollers to navigate. Although the temple is a little distance from the station, a leisurely walk through the green surroundings is both refreshing and calming. The temple is especially enchanting during the autumn foliage season.

3. Sumaura Park – A Renowned Cherry Blossom Viewing Spot

Sumaura Park is not only famous as the historic battleground of the Genpei War, but also as a renowned cherry blossom viewing spot. Since its opening, the park has gradually been landscaped, and today its planted trees form the centerpiece of the park’s scenery. As a result, it becomes extremely crowded during cherry blossom season.

At night, during a limited period, the park features a stunning light-up of the Atsumori cherry blossoms, creating an almost otherworldly atmosphere. In particular, the Hanazuki restaurant and inn, located within the park and surrounded by ancient, majestic trees, offers an especially impressive light display.

Sumaura Park is also part of the Rokko Traverse Course, attracting many hikers. Aside from the cherry blossoms, the pine trees lining the coastline provide another memorable sight, set against lush mountains and the calm sea.

4. Suma Urasanjo Amusement Park – A Perfect Spot for Ride and Attraction Lovers

Perfect for those who love rides and attractions, Suma Urasanjo Amusement Park is an ideal tourist spot. From Sumaura Park Station, you can take a ropeway—a remnant of the original “Car Lifter,” which has been in operation since its early days—to reach a park perched on a hilltop.

This attraction is great for ride enthusiasts, and for those who aren’t as fond of rides, there’s also a hiking course available. At the summit, you can enjoy rides on miniature cars and a monorail, and there’s even a “rotating observatory” where you can have a unique experience.

On the 3rd floor of the rotating observatory, the floor slowly rotates 360° over about 45 minutes while you relax with a cup of tea and a light snack. The first floor offers historical exhibits, and the second floor is dedicated to games—making it a perfect playground for children.

5. Refresh Your Spirit – Kobe City Suma Rikyu Park

Kobe City Suma Rikyu Park is a spacious botanical garden that was once a retreat for the Emperor before World War II. Remnants of that era still remain, with areas featuring traditional Japanese architecture as well as sections displaying beautiful Western-style roses, creating a refreshing atmosphere surrounded by greenery.

It is especially recommended to visit during the rose season, when the variety of roses and creative displays make for breathtaking views. Arched trellises made of climbing roses and benches set among ancient trees provide perfect photo opportunities.

On days when the park stays open late, you can also enjoy views of the illuminated fountains against the backdrop of Kobe’s cityscape, making it ideal for a couple’s date. If restaurant spaces are crowded, you might consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park.

6. Kobe City Suma Sea Fishing Park – A Fishing Destination for Anglers of All Skill Levels

At the fishing platforms jutting out into the sea off Suma Coast, various fish gather, making this a popular spot for anglers of all levels—from beginners to advanced. The facility is designed with safety in mind, offering free life jacket rentals for children and secure fishing platforms with railings. In addition, a store selling fishing gear and bait is available, where you can also receive fishing advice.

For a break, you can enjoy light meals such as katsudon or curry rice at the snack bar. With stunning views and an available telescope (for a fee) that overlooks Osaka Bay, this is a spot that promises excitement—especially when big catches are made. Visiting with a group guarantees a lively experience.

7. Kobe Sogo Undong Park – A Hub for Sports

Kobe Sogo Undong Park is a sports complex known for its “Hotto Motto Field Kobe,” regarded as one of Japan’s best ballparks. The park covers a wide range of sports facilities, including a baseball stadium, an athletics field, and an indoor gymnasium.

Its close proximity from the stands to the playing field ensures a vibrant atmosphere during events.

During the baseball season, the park often hosts a “fireworks night” event, adding to the excitement. In addition to the sports facilities, the park also features areas where seasonal flowers are beautifully displayed, making it a pleasant place for a stroll. There are also various activities for children and opportunities to participate in volunteer events.

8. Tsunashiki Tenmangu Shrine – A Shrine Dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the God of Learning

Tsunashiki Tenmangu Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning, who is revered as Tenman Daijin—the deity of scholarship and academic success. Among the over 10,000 Tenmangu shrines across Japan, this particular shrine is cherished as one of the 25 sacred gardens. As a result, many visitors come here to pray for exam success and academic achievement, and it is also popular during Shichigosan (a traditional festival for children). During the exam season, you’ll find many omikuji (fortune slips) and ema (votive plaques) displayed.

In February, the shrine also attracts visitors as a famous plum viewing spot, with seasonal nighttime illuminations adding to its charm.

Certified in 2016 as a “Welcome Baby” shrine, it offers diaper-changing and nursing rooms, making it a convenient place for families with young children. Souvenirs from Miki House are also available for special occasions such as omiyamairi and Shichigosan.

9. Okusuma Park – A Rare Park Where You Can Interact with Living Creatures

Nestled in a new town environment yet offering immediate access to nature, Kobe Okusuma Park is a rare urban park where you can connect with the natural world and interact with wildlife. Although it is well-maintained, the park retains its rich natural features, including a natural forest, ponds, and meadows, which are home to numerous creatures such as dragonflies, fireflies, and various bird species. Local residents actively participate in preserving the park, and events like the “Dragonfly Festival” are held to celebrate its natural beauty.

Notably, the park features a barbecue area equipped with wooden tables and chairs, as well as designated areas for disposing of charcoal—demonstrating meticulous attention to detail. There is also a playground for children, and a golf center within the same facility is available for additional leisure activities.

10. Suma Beach / Suma Seaside Swimming Area – The Closest Seaside Bathing Spot to Hanshin

Suma Beach is known as the seaside swimming spot nearest to the Hanshin area. During the swimming season, from mid-July to the end of August, many beachgoers visit. To ensure a safe swimming experience, beach huts are set up and lifeguards are on duty. Even outside the designated swimming season, Suma Beach remains accessible, making it a great spot for a refreshing walk.

In the summer of 2016, a project was even carried out where dolphins from the Suma Aquarium were released into the sea at the beach, accompanied by interactive experiences and beachside presentations. Watching the dolphins swim gracefully in the natural surroundings—occasionally leaping to entertain onlookers—is truly a sight to behold.

◎ Summary

The Suma area is filled not only with attractions along Suma Beach but also with numerous parks, temples, and historical sites. As many of these places are modest in size, you might find that visiting just one location leaves you with extra time—so why not plan a tour that combines several spots? Enjoy the rich natural and cultural attractions of Suma and make the most of your visit!

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Cherish Nature! 10 Recommended Tourist Spots Around Suma Coast