The gardens of Sorakuen were constructed in the main residence of Taijiro Kodera, the predecessor of former Kobe mayor Kenkichi Kodera. Construction began around 1880 and was completed in the early twentieth century. The Japanese-style garden has a strolling pond and fountain crossed by stepping stones and stone bridges – you will feel truly transported into the midst of a deep mountain valley. Other remarkable features include the cycad garden, a large camphor tree aged over 500 years, the azalea blossom in spring, and the splendor of the autumn leaves. There are also several designated important cultural properties, including the former Kodera family stables, with the stately grandeur of their main gate and European-style architecture, an unusual boathouse-shaped building, and the Hassam House. In addition to this, there is a beautiful tearoom that harmonizes with the landscape of the garden.