Kikuseidai Observatory

SPOT

HyogoKobe City

Kikuseidai Observatory

An observation plaza on Mt. Maya counted among Japan's Three Great Night Views. The vast panorama stretching from Kobe to Osaka and even toward Wakayama is so beautiful you could "scoop up the stars with your hands."

ABOUT

About this spot

Kikuseidai, near the summit of Mt. Maya in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, is a scenic spot known nationwide as one of Japan's Three Great Night Views. True to its name, meaning "a night view so beautiful you could scoop up the stars with your hands," a dazzling sea of lights spreads out below like scattered jewels. From the observatory, located about 700 meters above sea level, you can enjoy a dynamic panorama of more than 180 degrees, taking in the city of Kobe, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge to the west, Osaka Bay and Kansai International Airport to the east, and even the Kii Peninsula in the distance. The moment the city lights begin to glow, from the "magic hour" just after sunset into the night, is breathtakingly beautiful. The "Kirakira Komichi" promenade is also laid with luminous material that glows a mystical blue at night, giving the feeling of walking above a starry sky. We recommend reaching it by taking the retro Maya Cable Car and ropeway in succession. The time spent heading to the summit on this aerial journey makes a date or a trip with friends even more special. Why not spend a luxurious moment in this open space surrounded by nature?

Last updated March 27, 2026

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