Route Guide
The great roads of Kobe, made for a Roadster
Kobe and the area around it are dotted with wonderful driving routes where you can enjoy open-air motoring in a Roadster to your heart's content. From tight winding roads to seaside runs looking out over a beautiful coastline. Here we introduce the gems that our club members have driven again and again and recommend with real confidence, together with their honest impressions.
Mt. Rokko DrivewayMt. Rokko Driveway - The Sky-High Winding Road Above Kobe
Mt. Rokko, reachable within minutes of the city of Kobe, is something close to a sacred place for Roadster owners. The classic route is to climb the Omote-Rokko Driveway with its succession of tight corners, then aim for Rokko Garden Terrace in the summit area, or the Higashi-Rokko Observatory where car lovers gather. Nature in all four seasons, and breathtaking views of Kobe by day and by night, are waiting for you.
What makes this route special
- A road worth driving: Technical corners follow one after another, letting you savour the Roadster's "oneness of horse and rider" to the full.
- Sweeping panoramic views: Lookout points are dotted all along the way, taking in everything from the Osaka Plain to the Port of Kobe. You can capture your car and the scenery in a single photograph.
- Stylish cafes: There are plenty of cafes up on the mountain where you can enjoy the view, making them ideal for a break during your drive.
A member's voice
"The climb up Omote-Rokko really is the best! Especially in an NA Roadster, the feeling of running all the way up while wringing out second and third gear is addictive. Talking cars with friends at the cafe at the top is another part of the fun." (T, member)
Route map
Awaji Island Sunset LineAwaji Island Sunset Line - Chasing the Sea Breeze and the Setting Sun
Cross the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and you are already in an island resort. Prefectural Route 31, which runs down the island's west coast and is popularly known as the Awaji Sunset Line, is - exactly as its name suggests - a seaside road whose evening views are beautiful enough to have earned a place among Japan's 100 finest sunsets. With the calm Seto Inland Sea on your left, the roof down, and the sea breeze and your engine note as the soundtrack, the time you spend here becomes a special experience that nothing else can replace.
What makes this route special
- An unbeatable location: The coastline stretching on and on, and the beauty of a sunset that dyes both sky and sea deep crimson, are genuinely moving.
- Food and cafe hopping: The coast road is lined with stylish cafes and restaurants. You can also enjoy dishes made with fresh ingredients from Awaji Island.
- Effortless cruising: With few traffic lights and a steady rhythm of gentle curves, this road feels as though it exists purely for open-top driving.
A member's voice
"I absolutely recommend timing your run for dusk! Driving with the roof down while you feel the colour of the sky change minute by minute is the ultimate luxury. My standard plan is to take a break on the terrace of my favourite cafe, gazing at my car." (M, member)