Sōraku-en is a traditional Japanese garden near Sannomiya, designed in the early 20th century around a central pond with carefully composed views of stone lanterns, stepping stones, and seasonal plantings. It is one of the finest gardens in the Kobe area, relatively small by the standards of great Japanese gardens but beautifully maintained.
The garden is particularly good in spring for cherry blossom and in autumn for maple colour. The teahouse at one end of the garden serves matcha and wagashi sweets. A short walk brings you to the Motomachi shopping district, making it easy to combine with the Chinatown and waterfront.