20 AMAZING Things to Do in Kobe, Japan (2024 Guide)

Planning a trip to the beef capital of the country? Don’t miss all the great things to do in Kobe, Japan.

Beef, beef, beef – is that all there is to Kobe? Absolutely not. Kobe has an awesome selection of nature and city activities to satisfy anyone looking for a good time.

In Japan’s southern side of the main island of Honshu is Kobe, its sixth-largest city. Only 30km west of Osaka, Kobe has developed a name for itself among foodies around the world thanks to the infamous Kobe beef.

And while tourists may flock here chasing a taste of a juicy steak, there are a lot of other things to do in Kobe if beef isn’t your thing.

While most people only visit Kobe on a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto, spending a couple of days in this port city will give you time to explore the mountains, the coast and the city in between.

READ MORE: Here’s the ultimate list of best places to visit in Japan !

Things To Do In Kobe Japan

Table of Contents

1) Eat Kobe Beef

2) cross akashi kaikyo bridge, 3) visit the takenaka carpentry tools museum, 4) mount rokko, 5) hike to nunobiki falls, 7) tour a sake brewery, 8) visit the kobe earthquake memorial park and museum, 9) kobe port tower, 10) explore fruit flower park, 11) visit ikuta shrine, 12) visit nankinmachi (chinatown), 13) watch a baseball game, 14) have a night out with some jazz, 15) or check out the jazz festival, 16) visit hyogo museum of art, 17) check out rokko island, 18) attend kobe luminarie, 19) catch a rugby match, 20) explore kobe harborland, the best hostel in kobe – yume nomad, the best budget accommodation for couples – hotel meet me kobe motomachi, best mid-range hotel – seaside hotel maiko villa kobe, best luxury hotel in kobe – hotel la suite kobe harborland, best restaurants in kobe, top things to do in kobe, japan.

Since the city is sandwiched between the coast and the mountains and is overall a vibrant and exciting city to visit, there are plenty of awesome things to do for city or nature lovers.

From the views at the top of the iconic Kobe Port Tower, to the Ikuta Shrine, to the world famous Kobe beef, to all the museums and day trips into nature, there is something in this port city for everyone.

As if it weren’t already blatantly obvious, the biggest of all Kobe attractions is Kobe beed. This is considered some of the most delicious steaks in the world due to its flavour, tenderness, and fatty, well-marbled texture.

For foodies out there who are passionate about their beef, the first thing to know about Kobe beef is that it’s actually a brand name – not a breed or type of beef.

The brand is maintained by the Kobe Beef Marketing & Distribution Promotion Association and was formed to protect the integrity of the brand.

Kobe beef is a wagyu beef from the Tajima strain of Japanese Black cattle born, raised and fed in Japan’s Hyogo prefecture. The Association sets out a specific set of rules for raising cattle and for beef to qualify as Kobe beef, there are many different criteria including:

  • the BMS level must be 6 or higher on  Japan’s 12-point scale
  • the meat quality score must be a 4 or 5 (out of 5)
  • the gross weight of beef from the animal must be 470 kg or less.

There’s also a bit of a myth around the Kobe beef cattle getting massages while being raised. While some ranchers may practice this, it’s more likely that there’s been a mistranslation of the practice of brushing Kuroge Washu to remove dirt in order to reduce stress.

You cannot miss out on Kobe beef, the most delicious part of your Kobe sightseeing adventure!

Definitely plan a night to visit this awesome restaurant (featured on Klook!) that has friendly staff and real Kobe beef!

Kobe Beef

At a length of almost four kilometres, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is the world’s longest suspension bridge and the tallest of its kind in Japan.

Located in the west of Kobe, stands at a height of 283 metres and straddles the Akashi Strait.

While you can’t exactly cross the bridge itself, the Maiko Marine Promenade has observatory hallways under the bridge’s platform. You can access the platform via an elevator from the base of the bridge on the Kobe side.

The walkaway is nearly 50 metres above ground and spans some 320 metres.

The floors are made of glass to give a stunning and panoramic view over the straight so those afraid of heights should beware of getting some serious triggers.

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

For lovers of the ancient world wondering what to do in Kobe, this museum is for you!

Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum showcases a range of ancient tools and relics including axes fashioned from stone that would have existed in the Jomon Period.

You will also find more modern artifacts on display and can browse through some of the interactive exhibits here that will take you back in time.

It is located right next to Shin Kobe Station so it’s easy to reach by public transport.

READ MORE: Check out our complete travel to Japan guide .

The highest peak in the Rokko mountain range, Mount Rokko is 931 metres high and provides the serene and beautiful green backdrop to the city.

Nature lovers keen to get out of the hustle to explore what to see in Kobe outside of four walls should hike up in the late afternoon to enjoy a spectacular sunset or at night. It’s truly one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kobe.

For those not so keen on hiking, there’s a cable car that takes 10 minutes to get to the top for 590 yen one way or 1,000 yen for a round trip ticket.

Kobe Night View

It’s crazy to think that you can find a blissful piece of nature amongst the wild city. Near Shin-Jobe station is a few waterfalls that are relatively easy to get to.

Ontaki Falls is the largest and to get there, there is a pleasant hike along a well-made path. From there, you can continue hiking up to a viewpoint of Kobe before reaching a reservoir. The viewpoint is worth the hike, it should be on top of your list of things to see in Kobe.

The entire area is also connected by the Shin Kobe Ropeway, a cable car that links a few of the points around Mount Rokko.

Riding the Shin Jobe Ropeway is a great way to see some of the surrounding scenery.

6) Visit Arima Onsen Hot Spring And Give Your Body Rest

If you’re already in the area visiting Mount Rokko and have just enjoyed a stunning sunset, finish off your evening and soak your feet at one of the onsens in Arima Onsen.

Arima Onsen is a popular hot spring town on the opposite side of Mount Rokko. With a thousand-year-old history, Arima Onsen town is considered one of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts.

In Arima Onsen, you’ll find two types of hot spring waters: Kinsen (gold water) which is a brown coloured water with iron deposits and is said to be good for skin ailments and muscle pain; and Ginsen (silver water) which is clear water that contains radium and carbonate and is said to cure various muscle and joint ailments.

There are two public bathhouses or several ryokan that have onsens for visitors to use as a hot spring. We recommend visiting the public bathhouses in Arima Onsen (they’re cheaper) unless you plan on staying in a ryokan.

Kin no Yu is the larger of the public bathhouses in Arima Onsen and features two indoor kinsen water baths of varying temperatures for each gender. Outside the bathhouse are a free foot onsen and a drinking fountain fed by thermal waters.

Gin no Yu is located further back in the Arima Onsen town and only has one large indoor bath for each gender with ginsen water.

READ MORE: Check out all these amazing things to do in Japan !

Besides its beef, Kobe is also famous for sake , a Japanese rice wine made with water from the mountains nearby.

Be sure to visit the main tourist information office along your Kobe travels to pick up a map showing you the locations of the different breweries offering tours.

Some of. the popular breweries are Sawa-no-Tsuru Museum, Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum and Kiku-Masamune Sake Brewery Company .

The breweries usually offer a guided tour explaining the history of sake and usually have some samples for you to try too!

  • Sawanotsuru Sake Museum
  • Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
  • Kiku-Masamune Sake Museum

Sake Museum Things To Do In Kobe

Kobe was hit by the Great Hanshin Awaji Earthquake on 17 January 1995 resulting in the death of more than 5,000 people and the destruction of tens of thousands of homes.

The Museum was opened in 2002 to commemorate the tragic event and to provide resources and education about earthquakes and disaster prevention.

The museum has a theatre that shows a documentary about the recovery process after earthquakes as well as images of the destructiveness of them.

Kids can also enjoy the museum via interactive games aimed at teaching about disaster prevention.

There is also a Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park located downtown near Harborland and the Kobe Maritime Museum.

Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park is a small green space that commemorates the people who died during the earthquake.

Considered the national symbol of the city, Kobe Port Tower is definitely a must-visit Kobe attraction.

The Kobe Port Tower dates back to 1962 and was the first of its kind in Japan built using a complex series of pipes.

At a height of 108 metres, there are several observatories here that offer more scenic views over central Kobe. A Kobe must see!

Kobe Port Tower

One of the charming Kobe, Japan points of interest is this Fruit Flower Park that has all different species of flowers all around.

Fruit Flower Park is a popular spot for Japanese weddings. Head here on the weekend to spot some dressed up couples taking their wedding photos.

If you’re visiting Kobe in spring, be sure to come by Fruit Flower Park and witness the 10,000 tulips that blossom annually as well as the infamous cherry blossoms.

Thought to be dated back to around 201 AD and one of the oldest in Japan, Ikuta Shrine is a wooden shrine closely linked to the sake producing industry.

Be sure to catch the two Noh plays regularly performed at the Ikuta Shrine for insight on culture and arts in Japan.

If you’re lucky, you might also witness some wedding ceremonies taking place at Ikuta Shrine.

This is a great lunch stop if you want to take a little break from Japanese cuisine and feast on some other Asian favourites.

Kobe’s Chinatown is one main street filled with plenty of restaurants, souvenir shops and supermarkets.

Be Kobe

Kobe is home to two baseball teams – Orix Buffaloes and Hanshin Tiers. The Tigers is the more famous team of the two and is also the oldest and one of the most popular teams in the country.

Since 1936, the Tigers have been playing at Koshien Stadium in Nishinomiya and are a very supported team. Here, you’ll find Japanese baseball fans to be loud and vocal with songs and chants throughout the entire game – completely different to how Japanese are typically in their daily lives.

You don’t have to be a baseball fan to enjoy yourself here – the experience is for old and young alike and is definitely one of the most fun things to do in Kobe. Book your tickets here !

Baseball Kobe

Kobe has a claim to being the home of jazz in Japan and Sone Jazz Bar is one of the best live music venues in the city where you’ll find some awesome Jazz musicians.

If you’ve never experienced a jazz bar before, this is the perfect place to begin your initiation. The building itself also some historical significance as the owner’s grandmother originally opened a ryokan here in 1960.

Today, visitors can enjoy nightly sets in a spacious room elegantly decorated with period furniture and an ornate bar with stained glass fittings. The restaurant offers a set course as well as an a la carte menu and a full range of drinks.

Check the website to see which performances are on.

Jazz Music What To Do In Kobe

The annual Kobe Jazz Street Festival was started in 1981 and is held every autumn in October.

Historically, Kobe was a routine stop for ships and ocean liners so the city was the perfect place for jazz to flourish. Duke Ellinton and Louis Armstrong even visited during the post-war jazz boom!

The festival commences with a parade down Kitanozaka Dori with non-stop events and fun held over two days.

Don’t miss the beautiful Hyogo Museum of Art if you are a fan of modern art. Located on the waterfront, the museum was built as part of the Earthquake recovery and is the largest of its kind in Western Japan.

Throughout the year, you can find various exhibitions of prints, paintings, sculptures and other artwork by Japanese and international artists.

Kobe City Museum is another great option where you can see art, history, and archaeology all mixed together.

Located in the Port of Kobe, Rokko Island is a major artificial island with hotels, markets, an amusement park, schools, the Kobe Fashion Museum among other things that makes it one of the best Kobe, Japan points of interest.

The island is only 3.4 km by 2 km but was one of the hardest-hit areas during the Great Hanshin Earthquake and is certainly worth a visit.

One of the main festivals held in the city is held annually in early December and is pretty much a huge celebration of spectacular and colourful lights.

The festival pays tribute to the Hanshin Earthquake victims as the lights are said to represent the life of someone who died.

If you’re visiting Kobe during this time, don’t miss out!

Rugby is a popular spot in Japan, and one of the best things to do in Kobe is attend a match.

Kobe Misaki Stadium is where you can see all the games, and this is where the 2019 Rugby World Cup was hosted.

That was the first time that the Rugby World Cup has been held in an Asian country, so it was an exciting time for locals in Kobe.

Even though the Rugby World Cup is over, the Kobelco Kobe Steelers, sometimes just called “Kobe Steel”, is the local rugby team. Head over to Kobe Misaki Stadium to watch an exciting game!

Visit the Kobe Steel website to book tickets .

Rugby World Cup

This is the main entertainment district of Kobe City, so it’s a fun place to stop for some drinks, food, games, and shopping.

There is a South Mall and a North Mall for all your shopping needs. There is also lovely waterfront views where you can see Kobe Port Tower.

Also consdier riding the giant Ferris wheel or visiting the Kobe Maritime Museum.

Kobe Maritime Museum is one of the best museums in the city. It highlights the history and culture of Kobe city as it became a prominent port of Japan.

Kobe Harborland is one of the most visited areas of the city center, so chances are you’ll pass through here while sightseeing anyway!

Kobe Travel Guide

We’ve put together this short and sweet Kobe travel guide to help you make the most of your time in this city complete with where to stay in Kobe and some great restaurant recommendations.

Best Accommodation – Where To Stay In Kobe

Whether you’re a budget backpacker, a mid-range traveller or someone with some serious cash to spend, accommodation in Kobe city is plentiful and there’s something to suit every budget.

We’ve picked some awesome places to stay that are close to some of the main stations as well as other convenient and sightseeing spots around Kobe.

Yume Nomad is a quirky guesthouse that took a 50-year-old building and renovated it in the most stylish and artistic fashion.

The hostel offers a selection of private rooms or a mixed dorm room. Dorm rooms here are affordable and among the cheapest in Japan.

Bathrooms are quite small to just keep in this mind if you’re someone who prefers a larger bathing space.

With a lounge room and kitchen for guests to use, it’s a bit more social than other hostels you’ll come across in Japan. The accommodation is basic and simple so if you’re a no-frills traveller who just needs a bed to sleep in, there’s no doubt that you’ll have fun staying here!

This hotel is a great and affordable little gem with all the basics for couples looking for budget accommodation.

The rooms and bathroom are spacious by Japanese standards, beds are clean and you even get a big-screen TV. Expect uncomplicated, basic and satisfactory amenities.

The hotel is in a great location right near Kobe Port and a 10-minute walk to the Motomachi JR Station. The area is fairly quiet and peaceful with a big Family Mart nearby. You will also find plenty of restaurants and shops within walking distance.

Breakfast isn’t typically included in the price of the room and is a mix of Western and Japanese cuisines. We recommend saving yourself and heading out to feast elsewhere throughout your stay in Kobe.  

The hotel is definitely good value for money given a private room between two is almost the same as two beds in many of the dorm rooms around Kobe.

For a room with a view, it doesn’t get much better than this stunning Seaside Hotel. Only a short walk from JR Maiko Station, the hotel is situated on a hill but has an elevator that brings you up from the road to save your tired legs.

Rooms are large, clean, offer all the basics that you will need and more. Beds are pretty firm here (though still comfortable) so if you’re someone looking for super soft beds to sleep in, this might not be the place for you.

The hotel offers buffet breakfast and dinner but we recommend eating out at the many restaurants in Kobe instead. The hotel also has access to an onsen with a good rate for guests from hotel so be sure to check that out at the end of a long day of Kobe sightseeing.  

Tip: Make sure you ask for a room with a sea view to get some of the best seats in the house.  

For those with a budget to spoil themselves a little, look no further. This hotel is the epitome of luxury with its grand and stunning design and is on par with some of the most luxurious hotels in the world. The hotel

The rooms are ridiculously spacious, especially for Japan, and have been tastefully decorated to be stylish and modern without being too over the top. If you get yourself a room with a view, you can enjoy a stunning and expansive view of the harbour.

Rooms are equipped with large comfortable beds, a sofa and other seats as well as a massive flat-screen TV and a minibar for those wanting to spend a little more time in than out. The bathroom is also large and features your own private hot tub!

Hotel La Suite features a couple of swimming pools, an on-site restaurant, room service and concierge. It’s in a great location and close to some popular landmarks such as The Former Foreign Settlement of Kobe and Tor Road.

As you already know, this city is famous for its Kobe beef so we’re not surprised that you’re searching for some of the best places to try it.

If all you care about is having the best of the best and budget isn’t a factor, visit Kobe Steak Restaurant Royal Mouriya – the number one restaurant in Kobe for good reason. The dishes here are French-inspired and the selection of food is fairly limited so be sure to check out the menu before heading there and definitely make a reservation.

Tired of Kobe beef and want to return back to some good ol’ ramen? For under 1000 yen, you can dig into a delicious bowl of ramen. Ramen Taro serves ramen with a mild and tasty kimchi topping as well as your other familiar toppings in a yummy thick broth.

Since we’re suckers for Vietnamese food, we can’t help but shout out to Thang Cafe for offering some non-Japanese Asian cuisine that is tasty, filling and fresh.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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About the Author - Amanda Tran

I'm Amanda Tran, a young Aussie travel writer exploring the world one adventure at a time. I run Explore Wider and am a huge lover of nature, landscapes, food and adrenalin. I share my experiences through photos, videos and fun stories with the aim of inspiring adventurous, affordable and sustainable travel. Having lived in Japan, I am the NOMADasaurus expert guide on travelling this beautiful country, along with Australian road trips (I've done them all), Asia trips and plenty more. Follow me on Instagram .

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japan travel guide kobe

Things to do & Places to visit in KOBE

In this article, we introduce things to do in Kobe which make your Japan trip more enjoyable. This definitely be useful for your next trip to Japan, so don’t forget to bookmark!

Basic information about Kobe

Access / Geography / History

4 experiences you can’t miss in Kobe

Kobe Beef / Nada Sake / Arima Onsen / Night Views

  • 8 recommended areas to visit in Kobe

Meriken Park and Harborland / Kitano / Shin-Kobe / Kyu-Kyoryuchi / Sannomiya / Nankinmachi / Rokkosan / Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

Access to Kobe is really simple and convenient. It is within an hour from Kyoto and Osaka, as well as the major regional airport, Kansai International Airport (KIX), and transport options include trains, buses, and also the Shinkansen (bullet train).

We recommend you to stay and take enough time to enjoy everything in Kobe, but transport access is so convenient that you can make a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto.

Learn more about Aceess to Kobe

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Downtown of Kobe is surrounded by the sea and mountains to the south and north, literally it is sandwiched between mountain and sea.

Kobe is such a small city, which allows you to explore the downtown, sea side and mountains in one day. Most of the main attractions are within walking distance, but if you would like to roam around efficiently, public transportation is also available.

If you have limited time in Kobe, we recommend you to take the ” City Loop Bus” which is the most tourist friendly bus service, and you can get discount at over 30 attractions along or near the route by showing the pass.The ropeway and cable car are available in the mountain area, if you are not fond of hiking.

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Learning about history of Kobe will make your trip more enjoyable. Since the late 19th century, the Port of Kobe has developed as one of Japan’s leading international trade ports. People, goods, and cultures from all over the world had been gathered to Kobe. These cultures from all over the world and Japanese culture mixed together in Kobe and created a unique culture.

World famous Kobe Beef is one example. Japan didn’t have a meat eating culture originally. But after 19th century, English people visiting Kobe ate cows used for farming, they found out that it was extremely delicious.

The cityscape of Kobe also reflects a strong influence of foreign countries. Kobe’s leading sightseeing spots such as “Kitano” and “Kyu-kyoryuchi(The Former Foreign Settlement of Kobe)” are good example. In these areas, there are many western-style buildings built by merchants and diplomats who came from Europe and the United states. Furthermore “Nankinmachi (Kobe China Town)” in Kobe downtown is one of the 3 biggest Chinatowns in Japan.

1. Try authentic “Kobe Beef”

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Kobe is known as the home of world famous Kobe Beef. These days, there are many restaurants around the world serving Kobe Beef. But here in Kobe, you can enjoy Kobe Beef with freshness only available at the place of production, served by expert chefs.

Kobe Beef has a lot of fat, which breaks down over time when shipped long-distance, reducing the quality, so it is best to eat it where close to the place of production. The meat is also very tender, so it takes expert techniques to cook it properly. There are many Kobe Beef restaurants in Kobe, and chefs try hard every day to improve their skills.

Kobe Beef is served in many kinds of ways, from Yakiniku and Shabu-Shabu to Sushi and even Ramen, but our recommended serving style is “Teppanyaki (Cooking on a hot steel plate)”! The chefs grill a beautifully marbled Kobe Beef steak in your presence, so you can enjoy Kobe beef not only with your taste, but also with your eyes.

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Kobe Beef has a very strict certification system for both the meat and restaurants to maintain the quality and brand. Restaurants certified by the Kobe Beef Association display a bronze statue, and real Kobe Beef is stamped with a chrysanthemum mark. Please check these out when you consider choosing a restaurant for Kobe Beef.

Learn more about Kobe beef

Kobe Beef / Official Travel Guide of KOBE

Kobe Beef Marketing & Distribution Promotion Association – You can find certified Kobe beef restaurants in this page.

Recommended Kobe Beef Restaurants

Kobe Beef Gallery – There is a gallery where you can learn about the history and production background of Kobe Beef. In the restaurant, you can actually taste Kobe Beef at reasonable prices.

Misono -A high class teppanyaki restaurant, which is recommended for those who want to eat the finest Kobe Beef.

Ishida – This restaurant offers a good balance of price and quality, so you can enjoy your fill of authentic Kobe Beef.

STEAKLAND KOBE – This restaurant is popular among tourists, and you can enjoy Kobe Beef teppanyaki at very reasonable prices.

2. Enjoy “Nada Sake” in Japan’s No.1 Sake production area

nadasake.jpg

Along with Kobe Beef, Japanese Sake is also famous in Kobe. There are lots of Sake breweries in the area called “Nada-gogo (five brewing areas in Nada)” ,and it is one of Japan’s leading areas for sake brewing.

Nada-gogo has the perfect water, rice, and climate for sake brewing, and sake brewing has been popular for a long time, and many breweries produce Sake there in traditional way even today. Some breweries offer tours about the history and culture & process of sake brewing, plus some even offer tastings of freshly-brewed sake.

hakutsuru.jpg

Sake made in Nada-gogo is typically spicy and dry, and very tasty. Recently, the popularity of sake is growing worldwide. If you’re interested in sake, we definitely recommend visiting the breweries in Nada-gogo, Kobe.

Learn more about Nada-gogo sake

Nadagogo Sake / Official Travel Guide of KOBE

Recommended Sake Breweries in Nada-gogo

Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum – At the Museum, there is multilingual audio guidance to make it easy to understand process of making Sake, and also free tasting is offered.

Kiku-Masamune Sake Burewery Museum – This museum is renovated in a traditional sake brewery with a nice atmosphere. You can experience the history and traditions of sake brewig. Free tasting is offered.

Kobe Shushinkan – They make sake which is served at receptions for the Nobel Prize. There is sake exclusive to this store, and it is recommended for souvenirs to Sake-lovers.

3. Soak in historical “Arima Onsen” to improve your health

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Arima Onsen in Kobe is one of the most famous hot springs in Japan, and it takes only about 30 min from downtown of Kobe. We can say that it is the closest hot spring town from the big cities such as Kobe and Osaka.

This onsen is so old that its name appears in Japan’s oldest history book, and it was a favorite of many famous historical figures. Arima Onsen hot springs have mainly two types of onsen, one is the “Kinsen (Golden onsen)” and the other is “Ginsen (Silver onsen)”.

Kinsen is the signature hot spring of Arima Onsen. The hot spring water has high iron content, giving it a reddish brown color, and the salt content is even higher than sea water. In Japan, there are 9 hot spring ingredients specified for their therapeutic effects, and this spring has 7 of them, so in addition to the warming and hydrating effects, it’s also great for beautifying skin and promoting health.

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The streets of Arima Onsen district have a good old-fashioned Japanese atmosphere. It is nice for buying traditional crafts like bamboo crafts, or enjoying street food like Manju (Japanese sweet bun) and croquettes after warming up in the hot spring.

Learn more about Arima Onsen

Arima Onsen / Official Travel Guide of KOBE

Recommended Onsen at Arima Onsen

Kin no yu – One of the leading public baths in Arima Onsen. Tattoos are allowed to enter the bathroom!

Taikou no yu – An onsen theme park at Arima Onsen. There are many types of bathtubs, and you can also enjoy meals and relax inside.

4. Admire the most beautiful “Night View” in your life

tenrandai.jpg

You can not miss the beautiful night view of Kobe. Especially the night view from the mountains is called “Million dollar night view” which is one of the most 3 beautiful night views in Japan.

There are two mountains north of downtown Kobe, “Rokkosan (Mt.Rokko)” and “Mayasan (Mt.Maya)”. It takes about an hour to reach the top of the mountain from downtown Kobe by train, bus, ropeway or cable car. From the observatory, you can admire the dynamic night view of Kobe, as well as the city lights of Osaka, Kyoto, and Wakayama in the distance.

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You do not have to climb to the top of the mountain to enjoy the beautiful night view. In Meriken Park and Harborland, the waterfront near downtown, which has lots of landmarks such as Kobe Port Tower and MOSAIC, and they have beautiful lighted up at night. You can make unforgettable memories with romantic night view of Kobe while taking a night cruise.

Recommended Night View Spots

Kikusei Dai (observation deck) at Mt.Maya – The steep mountain slopes let you enjoy Kobe’s most dynamic night view.

Rokko Garden Terrace at Mt.Rokko – You can spend all day at this place since there are shops and restaurants, and the observation deck.

Meriken Park and Harborland – Perfect spot for night viewing when you are in downtown.

8 Recommended Areas to visit in Kobe

Kobe has many areas with different aspects, such as sea and mountains, urban and natural environments, and Eastern and Western styles. Here are some of the best places to visit in these varied areas of Kobe.

Meriken Park and Harborland

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Meriken Park and Harborland in Kobe waterfront are Kobe’s leading sightseeing spots, with many photogenic buildings that are symbols of Kobe, making it the perfect area for taking memorable photos.

There are also some cruise ships departing from Port of Kobe, so it is good idea to feel the sea breeze on the deck.

Recommended Spots in Meriken Park and Harborland

BE KOBE monument – The No.1 photo spot in Kobe.

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Kobe Port Tower – The charming red silhouette is a symbol of Kobe. * Currently closed until spring 2024 for renovation.

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Kobe Harborland umie / MOSAIC – A shopping mall on the waterfront with a good atmosphere.

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Kotano is multicultural area north of Sannomiya downtown where many people having foreign roots are living. The streets are lined with European-style homes built in the early 20th century, creating an atmosphere that might make you forget you’re in Japan.

There are many Western-style buildings around the area that have been renovated and turned into cool cafes and restaurants, so it’s a good idea to take a walk and visit the buildings and shops that interest you.

Recommended Spots in Kitano

The weathercock house (former Thomas residence) – This western-style home is a symbol of Kitano famous for the weathercock on the roof. * Currently closed until spring 2025 for renovation. During the period, visitors are not allowed to enter the building, but can view the exterior.

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Uroko House & Observation Gallery – This photogenic western-style building has a distinctive facade that looks like fish scales.

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Kitano Meister Garden -This is a facility that reused a closed elementary school, and inside the building there is a souvenir store and handmade experience facilities.

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In Kobe, the Shinkansen stops at “Shin-Kobe” Station. There are mountains next to the station, and beautiful waterfalls and gardens are just a short walk away. Taking a stroll or riding the ropeway to the hill to enjoy the natural beauty and view is recommended.

Recommended Spots in Shin-Kobe

Nunobikii Falls – Beautiful waterfalls just 15 min from the station on foot. There are well-maintained trails around the area, so you can enjoy hiking casually.

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Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway – A beautiful garden with seasonal flowers and plants. There is also a fantastic sweeping view of downtown Kobe.

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Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum – The only museum in Japan to specialize in Japanese traditional carpentry tools.

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Kyu-Kyoryuchi (The Former Foreign Settlement of Kobe)

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The Kyu-Kyoryuchi area is lined with many brick buildings built as foreign trading houses and consulates since the late 19th century, making it a European atmosphere. The area has a department store and shops for high-end brands, so it’s Kobe’s premier shopping area with sophisticated tastes.

Recommended Spots in Kyu-Kyoryuchi

Kobe City Museum – There are free exhibits where you can learn about Kobe’s history and culture.

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Daimaru Kobe – A longstanding department with a gorgeous façade, good place to buy souvenirs of Kobe.

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Sannomiya, the center of Kobe, is crowded with restaurants and shopping centers. It is recommended area for eating Kobe Beef and buying souvenirs. Sannomiya Station is also a transport hub for trains and buses. Staying at a hotel in this area is very convenient for sightseeing in Kobe, as well as in Osaka, Kyoto, and Himeji.

Recommended Spots in Sannomiya

Ikuta Shrine – One of Kobe’s foremost shrines. Even though it is located in the middle of the downtown area, it is surrounded by greenery, creating an oasis in the city.

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Kobe Sannomiya Center Gai Shopping Street – A huge shopping street. They have it all, from fashion and accessories to cosmetics.

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Nankinmachi (Kobe China Town) / Motomachi

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Nankinmachi with Chinese restaurants lining the streets, many people have roots in China and Taiwan live there, making it one of Japan’s biggest Chinatowns. There are food stalls everywhere, so you can enjoy a snack like meat buns or dumplings while you walk around.

Recommended Spots in Nankinmachi / Motomachi

Nankinmachi Hiroba – The square in the center of Nankinmachi. This is a photogenic spot with Chinese-style architecture and monuments.

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Sorakuen – A large Japanese style garden which is located in the middle of the city, and unchanged for over a century.

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Rokkosan (Mt.Rokko)

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Mt.Rokko, a 900-meter-high mountain neighboring the north side of Kobe, is full of nature and a great spot for those who love the outdoors. You can access the top of the mountain from downtown Kobe in about an hour by train, bus, and ropeway or cable car. From the observatory, you can enjoy the dynamic view of Kobe and Osaka. The view after dark is especially gorgeous.

There are many sightseeing spots such as botanical gardens, museums, cafes restaurants, and observatories, so you can spend the whole day there.

Recommended Spots in Rokkosan

Rokko Cable Car – The cable car connects the sea side of Kobe to the top of Mt. It climbs 500m high in about 10 minutes.

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Rokko Garden Terrace – The observatory on the top of Mt.Rokko. It also has shops and restaurants.

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Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge

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The seaside district stretches along the west side of Kobe, featuring beautiful beaches like Suma Beach and a spacious outlet mall. The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge connecting Awaji Island with Kobe, the world’s second longest suspension bridge, is a must-see. The sheer size of it will blow you away!

Recommended Spots near Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge – The world’s second longest suspension bridge. There is a facility that allows visitors to see the inner structures, and there are also tours that take you up to the top of the pillars.

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Suma Beach – The seacoast features beautiful beaches and rows of pine trees. There are also cafes and restaurants along the coast.

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We hope that this article will inspire you to visit Kobe choose it as your next travel destination in Japan!

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Kobe Port

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Perched on a hillside sloping down to the sea, Kōbe (神戸) is one of Japan's most attractive and cosmopolitan cities. It was a maritime gateway from the earliest days of trade with China and home to one of the first foreign settlements after Japan reopened to the world in the mid-19th century. Kōbe is compact, designed for walking, and easily visited as a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto, or as a stopover en route to points west. Stay overnight to immerse yourself in the city's distinct atmosphere and dining options.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kitano-chō

For generations of Japanese tourists, this pleasant, hilly neighbourhood is Kōbe, thanks to the dozen or so well-preserved homes of (mostly) Western…

Nunobiki Falls

Nunobiki Falls

You'd never guess that such a beautiful natural sanctuary could sit so close to the city. This revered waterfall in four sections (the longest is 43m tall…

Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum

Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum

Hakutsuru is a major sake brewer in Kōbe's Nada-gogō district, a major sake-brewing centre. The self-guided tour through the old wooden brewery (the…

Port of Kōbe Earthquake Memorial Park

Port of Kōbe Earthquake Memorial Park

At 5.46am on 17 January 1995 the Great Hanshin Earthquake struck this region. It was Japan's strongest since the Great Kantō Quake of 1923 devastated…

Ikuta-jinja

Ikuta-jinja

Kōbe's signature shrine is said to date from 201, though it's been rebuilt many a time – a symbol of resilience for the city. It's right in the middle of…

Kōbe City Museum

Kōbe City Museum

Kōbe's local-history museum, in a Greek-revival-style building dating from 1935, is undergoing major renovations and scheduled to reopen in November 2019.

Maikō Marine Promenade

Maikō Marine Promenade

Completed in 1998, Akashi Kaikyō, west of central Kōbe, can still claim the title of world's longest suspension bridge (based on its main span, which…

Nankin-machi

Nankin-machi

Kōbe's Chinatown – Nankin comes from Nanjing; machi just means town – dates to the early days of the city opening its port to foreign traders. It was…

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The heart of Kobe, Japan is its port

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Kobe

ITINERARIES Kobe in 1 Day Discover architecture, history, and unforgettable waterfront views

One of japan's most culturally eclectic cities, kobe is easily accessible from osaka and kyoto by train, how to get there, from tokyo: 2 hours 45 minutes.

Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Kobe Station.

From Osaka: 25 minutes

Take the JR Kobe Line from Osaka Station to Sannomiya Station.

japan travel guide kobe

Photo: ©Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway

Begin your adventure through Kobe by taking the Kobe Nunobiki ropeway up to the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, home to a variety of herbs and flowers spanning 200 species. Take in sweeping views of the city from the top of the mountain.

japan travel guide kobe

A short walk from the base of the ropeway on foot is Kitano, a historic district once home to many of the city’s foreign merchants.

Foreign trade boomed around the 19th century, and several of the homes in the Kitano area remain relatively untouched. Many of these former mansions, known as Ijinkan, have been repurposed into museums and are today open to the public.

japan travel guide kobe

Photo: ©KOBE TOURISM BUREAU

Running down towards the port is Kobe Tor Road, one of the city's most culturally defining streets.

Just to the east of Tor Road are the towering torii gates of Ikuta-jinja Shrine. Founded in the year 201 A.D. this shrine has deep ties to Kobe. The surrounding area is the core of Kobe's modern downtown, and the shrine hosts many major festivals throughout the year.

japan travel guide kobe

Consider a visit to the Kobe Animal Kingdom, a flower and animal park situated on Port Island. Perfect for children but with plenty of attractions for adults too, the park features a hands-on petting zoo and a giant greenhouse, great for exploring when the weather is less than ideal.

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Shin-Kobe Ropeway

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Things to do in Kobe, Japan: a first-timer's guide

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written by Keith Drew

updated 27.02.2020

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Often overshadowed by nearby Kyoto and Osaka, Kobe gets the chance to shine this autumn when it plays host to three of the Home Nations at the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Here’s everything you need to know about this cosmopolitan city and the top things to do in Kobe, Japan .

The Rugby World Cup in Kobe

Things to do in kobe, what to see outside the city, where to stay in kobe, what to eat and drink in kobe, tailor-made travel itineraries for japan, created by local experts.

Small Group Tour: Splendours of Japan

13 days  / from 3535 USD

Small Group Tour: Splendours of Japan

Discover the allure of Japan on our small group tour (max 16 guests). Unveil Tokyo, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Osaka, and Okayama through guided explorations. Immerse in tea ceremonies and relish in the captivating beauty of these iconic destinations. Regular departures ensure an unforgettable journey.

Small Group Tour: Secrets of Japan

14 days  / from 4070 USD

Small Group Tour: Secrets of Japan

Embark on an exceptional small-group tour, available monthly, unveiling Tokyo, Hakone, Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto, and beyond. Uncover Japan's hidden gems, from serene shrines to bustling cities, and immerse in enchanting forests.

Small Group Tour: Highlights of Japan

10 days  / from 2795 USD

Small Group Tour: Highlights of Japan

Exciting small-group tour with monthly departures. Immerse in Japanese culture, challenge a pro in a sumo suit, wander Arashiyama's bamboo groves in Kyoto, and relish a kaiseki feast with Maiko entertainment - all included in this fascinating small group tour.

Japan highlights: Tokyo to Osaka

7 days  / from 4000 USD

Japan highlights: Tokyo to Osaka

From Tokyo to Osaka, this Japan trip features fantastic experiences. View a sumo session, visit ancient temples, and climb the Tokyo Skytree tower. Explore the resort town of Hakone in Mt Fuji’s shadow, savor a tea ceremony in Kyoto, and see cherry blossoms, in season, to complete a wonderful trip.

Self-Guided Adventure Tour in Japan

10 days  / from 3000 USD

Self-Guided Adventure Tour in Japan

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty, history, enchanting culture and warmhearted people of Japan, with our self-guided tour of Japan. Walk-through a bamboo forest, see how sake is made, join Samurai lesson, go bar-hopping in Tokyo and Osaka and extend your journey to Hiroshima

Culinary tour across Japan

10 days  / from 6000 USD

Culinary tour across Japan

This trip takes you from Tokyo to Kyoto, where you will experience authentic Japanese foods, visit morning markets in the local cities, learn how to make Japanese food and enjoy a unique stay at a monastery. A once in a lifetime experience.

Hiking the Japanese Alps

13 days  / from 3706 USD

Hiking the Japanese Alps

Traverse Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, hike Kamikochi's ancient forest, and marvel at Yake volcano. Explore Tokyo's palaces, Kyoto's temples, and Mt. Fuji's beauty. Relax in tranquil hot springs and discover Kanazawa's Kenroku-en Garden, along with Shirakawago's charming villages.

Japan Winter Tour with Monkey Onsen

12 days  / from 3415 USD

Japan Winter Tour with Monkey Onsen

Zip through snowy landscapes on a bullet train, exploring Tokyo, Kyoto, and Kanazawa's iconic attractions. Encounter snow monkeys in Nagano, wander through Shirakawa-go's picturesque village, and unwind in a traditional onsen ryokan. Experience Japan's winter charm at its finest!

Family Adventures in Japan

15 days  / from 5155 USD

Family Adventures in Japan

Discover Tokyo's shrines, Hakone's Mt. Fuji views, and Nagoya's Toyota Museums. Traverse Nakasendo's historic trails, experience Kyoto's Fushimi Inari Shrine and Nijo Castle, and savor a traditional tea ceremony. End in Osaka with a cooking class and a visit to Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway.

Japan Essentials

9 days  / from 2495 USD

Japan Essentials

Experience Japan's essence! From Tokyo's modernity to serene Hakone, historic Kyoto, and bustling Osaka. Marvel at Mt. Fuji, cruise Lake Kawaguchiko, stroll Fushimi Inari-Taisha's torii gates, and savor Kansai's cuisine in Dotonbori. This journey captures Japan's diverse beauty and culture.

The air-conditioned Kobe Misaki Stadium will host four pool matches at the 2019 Rugby World Cup: England v USA (26th September); Scotland v Samoa (30th September); Ireland v Russia (3rd October); and South Africa v Canada (8th October). The stadium is just five minutes’ walk from Misakikoen Station, a 10-minute subway ride on the Kaigan Line from Sannomiya Station in central Kobe.

kobe-japan-waterfront-harborland-shutterstock_775824757

Harborland on Kobe's waterfront © Sean Pavone/Shutterstock

Set between the mountains and the sea, Kobe has been shaped by its location on the northern shore of Osaka Bay. The busy waterfront is now home to Harborland , an entertainment and shopping district with a big Ferris wheel that’s lit up at night, and Meriken Park, where you can whizz up to the top of the landmark Kobe Port Tower for great views across the harbour. Part of the port has been left as it was following the earthquake that devastated the city in January 1995 and is now preserved as the Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park. You can gain an even better insight into the terrible events that day, and the lessons learned, at the thought-provoking Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution, 3km east along the waterfront.

Kobe climbs up the foothills of Mount Rokko, and you can hike up the mountain or take a funicular train to a lookout point that enjoys fantastic views down over the city as far as Osaka, particularly at night, when this vast urbanized strip sparkles in the dark. From the summit, a cable car runs down the other side of Mount Rokko to Arima Onsen, a historic hot-springs town famous for its restorative waters.

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Kobe city view from the funicular on Mount Rokko © SmileKorn/Shutterstock

A 15-minute ride on the Shinkansen (bullet train) west of Kobe, striking Himeji-jō is the best-preserved castle in Japan. This UNESCO World Heritage site of stout towers and fortified passageways dates back over 400 years and is peppered with secret hideaways and defensive tricks. While you’re here, it’s also worth visiting Himeji Kōko-en, a series of tranquil Japanese gardens just across the castle’s moat. Even closer to Kobe, in the other direction, Osaka is known as Japan’s Kitchen, and for good reason – take your pick from the weird and wonderful seafood at Kuromon Ichiba Market before grazing on assorted street-food snacks under the neon lights of the Dotonbori district.

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Himeji-jo castle is one of the top things to do in Kobe © SUTTANON JANTAPATSAKUN/Shutterstock

Staying around Sannomiya means quick and easy access to the Kobe Misaki Stadium; modern Hotel Villa Fontaine has a range of smart dark-wood doubles just a few minutes from the station. For bigger budgets, the spacious rooms at luxurious Hotel La Suite Kobe Harborland come with ocean views, and there’s a plush rooftop terrace overlooking Osaka Bay. For a more traditional Japanese experience, treat yourself to a night in a ryokan in Arima Onsen; with tatami-mat floors, sliding paper doors and outdoor hot springs, Toson Goshobo ticks all the boxes. Given its proximity to Kobe, Himeji can also be a good place to base yourself. Hotel Monterey Himeji has comfy Japanese-style rooms and a revitalising little onsen, and is located just a couple of minutes’ walk from Himeji Station.

Related articles from the blog

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You can hardly come to Kobe and not try its signature style of wagyu beef, a marbled butter-soft steak that’s synonymous with the city. Settle in to a counter seat at Misono , near Sannomiya Station, choose your cut and then watch the chef cook it to perfection on a teppanyaki grill in front of you – you normally wear a paper apron to avoid any unsightly splashes. Wash your beef down with Nada-no Sake. The Nada district of Kobe is part of the Nada-Gogō, the most renowned sake-producing region in Japan, and you can sample some sakes straight from the barrel at breweries such as Kiku-Masamune and Kobe Shu-Shin-Kan , both a 10-minute ride on the Hanshin Line from Sannomiya.

The JNTO is the official tourism organisation of Japan. For more information on visiting Kobe, see the Kobe Tourism Bureau website ; for more details on the Rugby World Cup 2019, including how to get tickets to matches at the Kobe Misaki Stadium, see rugbyworldcup.com .

Top image: Himeji-jo castle in Japan © SUTTANON JANTAPATSAKUN/Shutterstock

Keith Drew

A former Rough Guides Managing Editor, Keith Drew has written or updated over a dozen Rough Guides, including Costa Rica, Japan and Morocco. As well as writing for The Telegraph, The Guardian and BRITAIN Magazine, among others, he also runs family-travel website Lijoma.com. Follow him @keithdrewtravel on Twitter and @BigTrips4LittleTravellers on Instagram.

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The Wandering Quinn Travel Blog

Ultimate Kobe Travel Guide! Things To Do In Kobe, Japan!

Categories Asia , Japan

Kobe in Japan is definitely less visited by tourists than the popular Cities of Japan like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima and doesn’t seem to make many travellers Japan Itinerary .  

However, with Kobe’s location on the Shinkansen Line just a few minutes away from Osaka on route to the famous Himeji Castle and Hiroshima, and only 20 minutes from Kyoto on a fast train it really should be a place you visit in Japan. If anything just to get away from the crowds and see somewhere a little different!

I really enjoyed visiting Kobe, so in this Kobe travel guide and Japan travel blog, let me tell you things to do in Kobe , places to visit in Kobe and where to stay in Kobe .

Kobe Travel Guide

Things to do in Kobe

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Things To Do in Kobe

Kobe offers enough things to do to keep visitors happy for a good few days and thanks to Kobe being sandwiched between the Ocean and Mountains you can really see a lot of things to do in Kobe and a lot of different sides of the City very easily.

Kobe Harbour

For the most popular Kobe attractions , head to Kobe Harbour to see the iconic Kobe Port Tower , the BE KOBE sign and the colourful Ferris Wheel .

You can go up the Kobe Port Tower for views over the City and Harbour. Get really cheap tickets for Kobe Port Tower here!

japan travel guide kobe

Nunobiki Waterfalls

From Shin Kobe, Train Station walk 10 minutes to Nunobiki Waterfalls to be totally in Nature.

japan travel guide kobe

Kobe Chinatown

Walk around Kobe’s Chinatown and eat as many street foods as you can manage for some more Kobe sightseeing.

japan travel guide kobe

  • For more posts on Japan see:
  • Japan’s JR Pass. All You Need To Know Before & During Your Trip!
  • How to take a Day Trip from Osaka to Kyoto!
  • Free Things To Do in Japan’s Most Popular Cities To Visit!
  • ALL MY JAPAN POSTS.

Kobe Museums

When thinking about  what to do in Kobe Japan , museums may not be high on your list but there are many museums in Kobe.

Visit the Earthquake Memorial from the terrible Earthquake in 1995.

Visit the Kobe National Maritime Museum .

Visit the Sake Museum in Nada.

Go on a Walking Shopping Street Tour with Guesthouse Maya around Nada if you stay there.

japan travel guide kobe

JAPAN SIM CARD

Stay connected in Japan by ordering a sim card in advance and picking it up at the airport you land in. There a huge range of sim card options in Japan which you can see and buy here !

If you prefer eSIM’s these days, here’s a great option for an eSIM Mobile Data Plan in Japan so you’re connected as soon as you land without the hassle of swapping sims and waiting for connection.

JAPAN RAIL PASS

I’m sure you know, or have heard, that the Japan Rail Pass is the best value for getting around Japan!

There are many providers for the JR Pass but this is the official provider and the one I used.

You need to get your JR Pass ordered BEFORE your trip and sent to your home address, so look into buying one here !

Not sure how the JR Pass works and wondering if it will save you money?

Read my JR Pass guide here!

Mount Maya & Mount Rokko

Head up Mount Maya or Mount Rokko  which are top Kobe Japan points of interest, for views of the city and area of Kansai. Once up there you can go for a walk and enjoy nature.

japan travel guide kobe

Take a tranquil break with a private day trip to Kobe’s mountains and enjoy stunning Mount Rokko views, explore the lush Kobe Botanical Gardens, and unwind at the soothing Arima Onsen.

More Things To Do in Kobe

Take a Sunset Cruise to see the sunset over the City on a fancy cruise, or go on a nighttime cruise ! Book your cruise tickets in advance here .

Warm-up in an Onsen . I went to a local one in Nada recommended by Guesthouse Maya however Arima Onsen is a popular Onsen in Kobe too.

This an Onsen experience you can book online at Tarumi Onsen . I would recommend booking something online as once you are in Kobe, with the language, it can be hard to work out which onsens are for tourists to visit and which ones are not!

For things to do with Children in Kobe go to the Anpanman Children’s Museum in Harbourland (next to the Ferris Wheel).

japan travel guide kobe

Enjoy a Coffee which is celebrated in Kobe as Kobe was the first place to have Coffee in Japan!

Not only did Kobe get Coffee but it also got Jazz and a good thing to do in Kobe at night is to find a little bar playing Jazz and have a Beer or Sake alongside it.

Day Trips From Kobe

Kobe is well connected by train to the rest of Japan so you could easily use Kobe as your base to explore the area of Kansai with your JR Pass .

*Remember you need to get a JR Pass BEFORE arriving in Japan, if you don’t have one yet, you can buy one here on the official Japan Rail Site , and if you’re not sure if you need one, read my JR Pass post here on what the JR Pass is all about!*

japan travel guide kobe

Osaka, Kyoto, Himeji Castle

Day trips from Kobe you could do are Osaka, Kyoto and Himeji Castle . All 3 take between 20 minutes to 1 hour to reach (depending on if you end up on a local JR Train that stops a lot or get the fast Shinkansen Bullet Train) which makes Kobe a great base in Japan to do day trips to these popular Cities from.

Experience the wonder of Japan’s former capital cities, Kyoto and Nara, on a trip departing from Osaka or Kyoto.

Another good Day Trip from Kobe is to Nara to visit Nara Park and see the Deer, this will take you a little longer on the train- about 90 minutes and is easier to do from Osaka or Kyoto but if you’re not going there you can go on a day trip to Nara from Kobe too.

japan travel guide kobe

Where to Eat in Kobe ?

Let’s start with- What to Eat in Kobe?

And if you are a meat eater you’ll probably already have Kobe Beef on the top of your list and it seems that most people know Kobe for its Beef!

I didn’t try it as I’m a veggie however I have heard that it melts in your mouth and is a must-eat in Kobe.

There are restaurants all over the city promoting Kobe Beef so you will definitely not miss out on it.

If you want to try the best Wagyu Beef in Kobe at a BBQ , you can book this Kone Beef BBQ experience online in advance !

In terms of the best places to Eat in Kobe , like the rest of Japan, there are restaurants everywhere. A good place to eat in Kobe is Chinatown , not only are its streets filled with street food during the day but there are plenty of restaurants open all day there too.

I found an Udon restaurant randomly which was brilliant, and it was so local there were not even any seats, just a bar to eat around and slurp my Udon from!

japan travel guide kobe

Another good place to eat in Kobe is in Mosaic which is in the Harbourland area of the Harbour (next to the Ferris Wheel), there are many shops and restaurants in Mosaic offering cuisine from all around the world including Japan. I ended up in a Hawaiian Place called Eggs and Things offering huge pancakes and Maccha House took my fancy for all things Matcha although I was too cold for Matcha Ice Cream at the time!

Maccha House Kobe

For a local Japanese experience head to the neighbourhood of Nada which is where I stayed . Nada is full of little Japanese restaurants that will give you a fully local experience .

How to Get to Kobe ?

Kobe does have an airport which is on an island just off of the City however if you are flying into Japan and heading straight to Kobe the cheapest and best option in terms of having more flight options will be to fly into Kansai Airport which is also the Airport for Osaka.

Kansai Airport to Kobe

Kansai Airport is also located on its own island and from Kansai Airport to Kobe you have 3 options:

Ferry – The high-speed ferry goes between Kansai Airport and Kobe Airport very quickly and then you’ll need to get a train into the Centre of Kobe afterwards. Note that this option is weather dependent.

Bus – Although Trains are generally the best way to travel around Japan , in this case, a bus from Kansai Airport to Kobe is better as there is a direct bus service taking about an hour.

Train – For a train from Kansai Airport to Kobe you will probably have to change in Osaka station. 

Kansai Airport is fully set up for tourists and has lots of information points to help you so once you have your baggage, follow the signs to the public transport and you’ll see lots of ways you can get to Kobe and tickets to buy.

Kobe Subway Train getting from the airport

Shinkansen to Shin Kobe

If you aren’t coming from the Airport then the train is the best way to get to and from Kobe. Shin Kobe is the main train station however there are many JR (Japan Rail) stations lining the City too.

Do you still need to get your JR Pass? Remember you need it BEFORE you get to Japan. Japan Rail Pass offers quick & free delivery so you can get it here:

japan travel guide kobe

Shin Kobe is the station for the Shinkansen train. I got the Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Kobe with a stop at  Himeji Castle   on the way.

I left Kobe by local train to Osaka which was then heading onto Kyoto. The Shinkansen also goes from Tokyo to Kobe in a few hours.

Basically, Kobe is very well connected by train and you’ll be able to get there easily and leave easily.

Where to Stay in Kobe ?

There is a good selection of Hotels in Kobe along with Hostels and Guesthouses in Kobe however it is not a city that is overrun with accommodation, therefore, you are best to book accommodation in Kobe in advance.

Hostels and Guesthouses in Kobe

I stayed at Guesthouse Maya Kobe which I really recommend! It’s in the Nada neighbourhood which is just a short JR train away from the very centre of the City (and this line is included in your JR pass if you have one). The Guesthouse is really homely and cosy with great staff. They have dorm rooms perfect for backpackers on a budget in Japan but also nice private rooms for a great price.

I really enjoyed seeing the neighbourhood of Nada too, it gave me that ‘local’ feeling and partnered with the fact that Guesthouse Maya in Kobe offers a walking shopping street tour to meet the locals and taste their foods, I had a great experience feeling like I lived in Kobe for 2 days!

Check Rates and Availability for Guesthouse Maya here .

Guesthouse Maya Kobe Hostel

Hotels in Kobe

For Hotels in Kobe in a good central location with good reviews I recommend:

Hotel La Suite Kobe Harbourland

Oriental Hotel

Kobe Minato Onsen Ren

For more Hotels in Kobe have a look  Booking.com here . I always use Booking.com as it’s a great way to compare hotels and get the best deal.

Hotels at Arima Onsen

Not far from Kobe is Arima Onsen which is a popular Onsen in Japan offering you the chance to fully relax and experience the Onsen and Ryokan Culture in Japan.

For hotels in Arima Onsen which is easily accessible from Kobe have a look at:

Arima Onsen Gekkoen Korokan

Spa Terrace Shisui

Arima Onsen Taketoritei Maruyama

JAPAN ON A BUDGET

Japan isn’t the cheapest country to travel but you can save money in Japan, here are my budget tips for Japan:

How to Save Money in Japan!

Free Things To Do in Japan!

Save Money with the JR Pass!

JAPAN ITINERARY

Here’s my 2 week Japan itinerary for first time visitors which will help you plan yours and you can adapt it whether you’re in Japan or longer or less time.

How to Get Around Kobe ?

Kobe is very well connected however I won’t lie, I got a little bit confused and got on a few wrong subways!

To get around Kobe you can use the JR Train Lines, the Subway and the Bus.

JR Train Lines

Remember that if you have a JR Pass as you’re travelling around Japan, you can use any of the JR Train lines free of charge (well, they’re included in your pass). You don’t need to purchase tickets, you just show your JR pass to the inspectors at the barrier and they let you through.. easy!

Kobe Subway

To use the metro/subway in Kobe it’s best to get an Icoca Card. These are purchased for 2000Yen which included 500Y for the card and 1500Y credit to get around and then you can tap in and tap out on the subway.

The ICOCA card is also worth getting if you are travelling elsewhere in Japan as they are valid in all of Kansai aka Osaka, Kyoto and Hiroshima which means you do not need to worry about buying individual subway tickets in any of these Cities including Kobe.

If you’d rather get an Icoca Card in advance for the same price to save the stress when you arrive, buy an Icoca Card here .

Kobe Public Bus

Kobe is also well connected by bus . I didn’t use the buses in Kobe to get around Kobe however there are lots of regular stops and I’ve seen the Kobe City Loop online which is a bus with 17 stops around the City included. A bit like a hop-on, hop-off bus I believe which would be a great way to explore Kobe.

Kobe Ropeways

To get up the mountains like Mount Maya and Mount Rokko there are Cable Cars and Ropeways to the top!

The Subway and JR lines are quite confusing with lots of lines and signs pointing in all directions however my biggest tip for getting around Kobe as a foreigner is to seek help from the information counters and ticket counters and ask them where to go as everyone in Kobe and Japan, is very happy to help.

getting around Kobe Subway

I hope this helps you plan your trip to Kobe, Japan! It really is a great city, I’d go as far as saying it was my favourite place to visit in Japan!

To SEE my time in Kobe, have a watch of my YouTube video here .

  • 16 Money-Saving Tips When Visiting & Travelling Around Japan!
  • Tokyo 2 Day Itinerary to See Best Places in Tokyo – DETAILED Guide

I stayed at Maya Guesthouse complimentary but I had a great experience and fully recommend it to you. 

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Monday 26th of August 2019

Hi there, loved your post! For your day trips, would it be easier to take it from Osaka (osaka based for more of the trip) or kyoto (based longer in Kyoto)? :)

TheWanderingQuinn

Tuesday 27th of August 2019

Hello, to be honest, both will be fine. Direct trains go from each place, Osaka may take a little longer but with the trains as fast as they are I doubt it will be long at all! :)

Friday 10th of May 2019

I missed out both Chinatown and Little India in Kobe, will definitely go back just for those two ?

I missed out on Little India, I didn’t realise that was there!

japan travel guide kobe

Wanderlust Chloe

18 Things To Do In Kobe, Japan – The Ultimate Kobe Travel Guide

From taking in the views from kobe’s port tower and the ferris wheel, to exploring the old district of kitano or getting lost in colourful streets of chinatown, these are the top things to do in kobe, japan..

After my first trip to Japan last year, I was SO excited to be invited back to explore some more of the country. This time I was off to Kobe, a city around twenty minutes west of the metropolis of Osaka.

So why go to Kobe, Japan? What is Kobe famous for? First up, the food. Kobe beef is reckoned to be some of the best beef in the world (more on that coming up).

What else? Well this year is a particularly big year for the city. The Rugby World Cup 2019 has just taken place, and Kobe was one of 12 host cities. In fact, England’s second match against the USA took place at Kobe Misaki Stadium. The atmosphere in the city was incredible!

So if you’re planning a visit for your next holiday, it’s time to show you the best things to do in Kobe, Japan!

Watch the video, then scroll down to find out about what I got up to in Kobe!

Top Things To Do In Kobe – The Ultimate Kobe Travel Guide

Cruise around kobe at sunset  .

One of the highlights of my trip to Kobe was the Luminous 2 sunset cruise. Setting off late afternoon, we were treated to one of the most stunning sunsets I’ve seen in a long time.

It was a great way to get a different perspective of Kobe and see how far the city stretches. Plus, it offered great views of Akashi Kaikyo Bridge – the longest suspension bridge in the world. But not just that, as the sun went down, the city’s twinkly lights switched on – the most magical view of all!  

Sunset views in Kobe

Enjoy Kobe Beef

People travel to the city just to try the delicious Kobe beef, and before my trip, it was one of the only things I knew about the city!

So why is Kobe beef so good? Well, Kobe beef is a type of wagyu beef known for its high level of fat marbling. It’s a soft kind of fat, with a low melting point, so it cooks quickly, stays very soft and tender and has a rich, indulgent flavour. It basically melts in your mouth.

Kobe beef at Kobe Plaisir Restaurant

I enjoyed it at Kobe Plaisir , a restaurant I’d 100% recommend. They cook the beef right in front of you, which is very entertaining to watch. For ‎¥‎7,500 you can enjoy a large set menu including soup, salad, amuse bouche, rice and 100g Kobe beef steak. Trying beef here is one of my top things to do in Kobe.

Kobe beef at Kobe Plaisir Restaurant

Discover Nature, Moments From The City At Nunobiki Falls

One minute you’re at Shin-Kobe station, one of the city’s major train stations, the next you’re standing in front of a stunning waterfall. Our hike to Nunobiki Falls was another highlight of my time in Kobe.

I always think it’s so lovely to discover beautiful nature spots SO close to the city centre. It’s the best thing to do near Shin-Kobe station, so even if you’re passing through and have some time free, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the waterfalls.

The hike to Nunobiki Falls, Kobe

There are a few waterfalls to see, with Ontaki Falls being the largest. There’s a great hike along well-made paths to get there, plus you can keep hiking up to a spectacular viewpoint of Kobe, then to a reservoir. If you don’t fancy the hike up or down, you could catch the Shin Kobe ropeway – a cable car that links a few of the points around Mount Rokko.

Nunobiki Falls, Kobe

Take A Wander Through Merikan Park

Merikan Park gets its name from when the Americans docked in Kobe and set up the US consulate moments away from this spot. It’s a big open space, with lots of places to wander around.

If you like modern architecture, you’ll love Kobe Maritime Museum, with its interesting sail-like architecture, and the iconic Kobe Port Tower.

Merikan Park, Kobe

There’s also the ‘Be Kobe’ sign, which gets busy at weekends, with people queuing up to snap a photo there! It’s also where Kobe’s fan zone for the Rugby World Cup 2019 will be set up.

'Be Kobe' sign in Merikan Park, Kobe

Enjoy Lunch In Chinatown

I really enjoyed exploring Chinatown in Kobe, known to locals as Nankinmachi. There’s one main street, with big gates at each end, plus a square with a Chinese temple and strings of traditional red lanterns. 

Chinatown (Nankinmachi), Kobe

If you like food, then there’s SO much to take in! From dumplings in the shape of pandas, to steamed rice parcels and sugarcoated strawberries, it’s a fun place to grab lunch. We stopped off for a tasty meal at Minsei restaurant in Chinatown – somewhere recommended by a few of the locals.

Chinatown delicacies, Kobe

Enjoy A Special Evening At Sone Jazz bar

What to do in Kobe at night? Head to Sone! One of the best live music venues in Kobe, Sone Jazz Bar and Restaurant is THE place to see the very best jazz musicians in the city. There are nightly sets, in a relaxed restaurant/bar setting. We enjoyed a three-course meal, metres from the talented musicians. It was a really lovely experience!

Sone Jazz Bar, Kobe

Get Your Ramen Fix In Kobe

As a self-confessed ramen addict, I couldn’t wait to devour a bowl of ramen within hours of arriving in Kobe! One of the locals recommended Tensonkourin , moments from Sannomiya Station. The ramen was really tasty, with a pork-based broth, seaweed and perfectly cooked noodles.

I’ll admit it was a little hazardous buying our ramen tickets from the machine without any English translation, but that’s all part of the fun of visiting Japan! Along with this one, I’d recommend Ichiran and Ippudo (2 ramen chains) from my previous trip to Japan.

Ramen at Tensonkourin, Kobe

Have Your First Crème Brulee Crepe

Along with trying plenty of local delicacies including fish, seafood and Kobe beef, there are plenty of quirky delicacies for sale too! ComCrepe is located on a side street between Motomachi’s busy shopping street, and Nankinmachi (Chinatown).

This tiny shop’s most famous crepe is the ‘crème brulee in a crepe’, complete with that crisp bruleed top! Delicious!

Creme brulee in a crepe at ComCrepe, Kobe

Explore Picturesque Kitano  

Walking around Kitano might not be a highlight for western tourists, as it doesn’t feel very different to being at home! But, don’t let that put you off, as it’s very pretty and definitely one of the top places to visit in Kobe.

It’s the neighbourhood where western merchants and diplomats settled after arriving through the Port in the 1800s, so there are several historic mansions to look around. There are also some cute cafes, tourist shops and a nice paved park area with sculptures and olive trees too. 

Kitano district in Kobe

Explore Kobe At Night

I never felt overwhelmed in Kobe as I did in cities like Kobe and Osaka. I felt that the city had a nice pace to it. Saying that, at night it certainly cranks up a notch. If you’re looking for things to do in Kobe at night I’d suggest spending some time a few streets back from Sannomiya Station – it’s a fun area in the evenings.

So what’s on offer? Well, there are lots of ‘hole in the wall’ eateries, serving everything from Korean fried chicken, to burgers and sushi. There are 10-floor towers with bars and restaurants on each floor. Oh and there are plenty of places to enjoy Japan’s favourite pastime – karaoke!

Visit Kobe’s Earthquake Memorial

As you wander Kobe’s streets, it’s hard to believe that in 1995 a huge part of the city was destroyed in the Great Hanshin Earthquake. Over 6,000 people died, many from the city itself. It’s a hugely sad memory for many, so if you do visit Merikan Park, take time to visit the Earthquake Memorial Park.

While the rest of the city was reconstructed, this one small area was left in its damaged state, as a poignant reminder of the power of natural disasters, and how the city has rebuilt itself since.

Kobe Earthquake Memorial

Wander Along Kobe’s Longest Shopping Arcade

Packed full of a variety of shops, Motomachi is a must-visit on your Kobe city trip. Crossing several streets, the covered shopping arcades are a great place to pick up some gifts, shop for clothes or pick up a few daily essentials.

Sample Sake At Kiku-Masumune Sake Brewery Museum

Kobe is a key player in the sake world, and much of the country’s best sake is brewed in the area. What makes it so good? Access to high quality rice, clean water from Mount Rokko and good weather conditions.

We spent a morning at Kiku-Masamune where we enjoyed a tour of the museum, saw skilled craftsmen at work making the sake barrels, and then got stuck into a sake tasting. I’ve never been much of a sake drinker, but it was great to try several and distinguish the differences. I really liked the one that was aged in sherry barrels, with its mellow, woody flavour.         

Kiku-Masamune sake tasting, Kobe

Enjoy Some Of The Best Views Of Kobe

There are a few options if you’re looking for ultimate views of the city… You could head to the ferris wheel in Harborland. Views are pretty as you look over the water to the built up city centre. Or you could head up to one of the higher floors in the city’s icon – Kobe Port Tower. Or for a free view, I heard the observation deck at Kobe City Hall is hard to beat! 

Kobe ferris wheel, Japan

Enjoy A Quirky Coffee At Jessy’s Coffee Shop

Continuing the quirky treats on offer in Kobe, if you’re wandering around the Motomachi shopping district, stop off for a coffee with a twist at Jessy’s Coffee Shop . I went for the ponpon latte – a coffee topped with whipped cream and colourful sugary balls!

Fun coffee in Kobe

Spend An Afternoon At Kobe Harborland

If you’re looking for somewhere with lots of food options, Kobe Harborland has it all. Relatively new, it’s now one of the top places to visit in Kobe.

It’s in a lovely location right on the water, with views of Kobe Port Tower, tourist boats, and when I visited there was an ice rink too. There were lots of trendy restaurants and cafes serving up a number of different cuisines including Italian, Hawaiian and of course Japanese to name a few!

One evening we ate at Hop Stand – a restaurant specialising in yakitori (skewers of meat) and local craft beer.

View of Kobe, Japan

Catch A Rugby Match At Kobe Misaki Stadium

As mentioned, Kobe is gearing up for a BIG autumn, as one of the host cities of the Rugby World Cup 2019. Several games will be taking place at Kobe Misaki Stadium. It’s the first time that it’s been held in an Asian country, and the first time outside of a tier 1 nation.

It was lovely chatting to people in and around Kobe, and hearing their excitement for the games. Hopefully lots of people will visit during this time, and base themselves in Kobe. When I last checked there were still tickets available .  

Head Off On A Day Trip From Kobe  

So I’ve shared some ideas for what to do in Kobe, but what else is there to do in the Kansai region?

With such an efficient train network, it’s really easy to base yourself in Kobe and explore some other amazing places.

You can travel from Kobe to Osaka in around an hour, and once there I’d recommend splitting your time between Osaka Castle and the vibrant area of Dotonbori.

Osaka Castle with Osaka city skyline, Japan

The city of Himeji also has a beautiful castle (one of the most famous in Japan!) along with beautiful Japanese gardens.

A highlight was our trip to Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s premier onsen towns. We spent an afternoon relaxing in the hot springs and enjoying traditional ryokan food. 

Or for some of the best views of the Kansai region, I’d recommend taking the cable car up to the top of Mount Rokko. There’s a great observatory up there, plus a café, restaurant and gift shop. Watching the sunset over Kobe and Osaka was absolutely magical!

Night view from the terrace at Tenran Cafe, Mount Rokko

How to get to Kobe, Japan?

If you’re travelling from abroad, the easiest way to get to Kobe is to fly into Osaka Kansai Airport. The bus from Kansai Airport to Kobe takes just over an hour and costs  ‎¥‎1,950 (around £13).

There’s also the Kobe-Kansai Airport bay shuttle service – a high-speed ferry that links the airports. We couldn’t experience this on the day we arrived as the weather wasn’t great, but I saw they were running a promotion for foreign visitors, costing just ‎¥‎500 per ticket. From Kobe Airport, you can then hop in a taxi or on the train.

You can also travel from Tokyo to Kobe by train (hurrah for those speedy shinkansen services!), which takes around three hours. Don’t forget to reserve a seat in advance if possible. Find out why in my Japan for first timers guide – guaranteed to help you avoid awkward situations on your trip!  

A big thanks to Visit Kobe for inviting me to explore the region! As always, all opinions are my own.

18 Amazing Things To Do In Kobe

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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Inside Kyoto

A Kyoto Travel Guide

Things to Do in Kobe

Kobe makes a great city for a day out or for more extensive exploration over several days. We’ve selected our must-do highlights for a quick trip, along with plenty of choices for a deeper dive.

Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art

With a population of 1.5 million, Kobe is Japan’s sevenths biggest city and, as it lies only 30 km west of Osaka, it makes a handy day out if you’re visiting there. It’s reputation is based on two of the things we recommend below: tender beef and Mount Rokko, but there’s a lively sake culture and an impressive Chinatown to visit. Whether your a lover of art or of nature, a shopper or a history nerd, we’ve got you covered in the second part of our overview.

Hotel La Suite Kobe Harborland

Here, we’ll introduce our top Kobe sights. Then, we’ll introduce the best of the other attractions in the city. All of these places can be found on our Kobe Google Map (scroll to the bottom of the page to see it).

Must See Attractions in Kobe

If you’re only planning to be in Kobe for a short time, these are the key activities we recommend.

A slab of beautifully marbled Kobe beef

Eat Kobe Beef

If you do just one thing on your visit to Kobe, try the beef. The exceptionally tender, well-marbled beef from Tajima black cattle is what the city is most famous for. Incidentally, cows raised for Kobe beef aren’t actually massaged nor given beer to drink – that’s just a rumour. Fortunately, that won’t make the beef taste any less delicious!

While you can eat Kobe beef at restaurants nationwide, there’s nothing quite like eating it in its city of origin. Try it as a simple steak, pan-fried in cubes on a hot iron grill teppanyaki-style, or as part of a Korean-style barbecue extravaganza. Check out our suggestions for Kobe beef restaurants in the city on our Places to Eat in Kobe page.

At the top of Mount Rokko

Mount Rokko

Local residents like to describe Kobe as a city situated between the mountains and the sea. The Rokko mountain range makes up the verdant mountains providing the backdrop to Kobe, and at 931 meters, Mount Rokko is the highest peak there.

You can take the cable car or climb up the mountain, and once you’re up there, there’s plenty to do on Mount Rokko itself. Enjoy the panoramic views of Kobe and Osaka, which are particularly beautiful at sundown. Stroll around the charming Nunobiki Herb Garden, and follow with tea and cake – or ice cream at one of the numerous shops in the Rokko Garden Terrace. Learn about plants at the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden and greenhouses. If you’re so inclined, check out tinkling tunes at the music box museum.

Getting around is easier with the circular bus line connecting the attractions on Mount Rokko with the Rokko Cablecar station and the Rokko Arima Ropeway. The latter connects Mount Rokko and Arima Onsen with a just 12 minute ride, and the views of the fall foliage and the sea from the cable car are especially glorious in the autumn months. The Shin-Kobe Ropeway is another good way to go up to Mount Rokko – there are glorious views of the city from the top station, especially at night.

Japanese name: 六甲山 Japanese address: 神戸市灘区・東灘区・北区 English address: Nada-ku, Higashinada-ku and Kita-ku, Kobe-shi Telephone: +81-78-894-2071 (Mt.Rokko cable Car & Tourism Company) Opening hours: Varies by facility Nearest transport: Funicular: Rokko Sanjo Station on the Rokko Cable Line. District: Mount Rokko Website: Official Website Admission: Free

:: Read reviews of Mount Rokko on TripAdvisor.com

Sake-no-tsuru Museum in the Nada district. Editorial credit: Iryna Makukha / Shutterstock.com

Sake Breweries in the Nada District (Nadagogo)

Sake lovers should take note of the Nada district in Kobe. With an abundance of high-quality rice and water, plus favourable sake-making conditions in the area, this is one of Japan’s top sake-producing regions. Many sake breweries operate in the 3 kilometre stretch of the Nada district, and a number of them offer facility tours. Most importantly, you can sample and buy sake at most of the shops in the area.

Strolling around sake breweries and sampling their ways – what better way to while away an afternoon in Kobe? If you have to choose just one place, hit up the Sawa-no-Tsuru Museum, which has free entry, excellent English-language information on the sake-making process, and free sake samples. Time permitting, the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum is also a good choice – you can try non-pasteurised sake here, which you won’t often find in stores.

Japanese name: 灘五郷 Japanese address: 神戸市灘区・東灘区、西宮市 English address: Nada-ku and Higashinada-ku, Kobe-shi, and Nishinomiya-shi Telephone (Sawanotsuru Museum): +81-78-882-7788 Opening hours (Sawanotsuru Museum): 10am-4pm (last entry pm). Closed Wednesday Nearest transport (Sawanotsuru Museum): Train: 8-minute walk from Oishi Station on the Hanshin Main Line. District: Nada Website: Nadagogo Brewers Association (machine translation) / Sawanotsuru Museum Admission: Varies by facility

:: Read reviews of Sawanotsuru Museum on TripAdvisor.com

The ornate entrance gate in Kobe’s Chinatown. Editorial credit: Lee Yiu Tung / Shutterstock.com

Kobe Chinatown

Known as Nankinmachi, Kobe’s Chinatown is the central focus of Kansai’s Chinese community. It’s been open since the late 1860s, when the area was developed by Chinese merchants after the country was opened to foreign trade. This compact little shopping and dining district is also a popular tourist attraction. The two main streets in Chinatown are great for a lunchtime food crawl. Snack on kakuniman – steamed bun filled with soft-braise belly pork – ramen, bubble tea, and all kinds of tasty Chinese food.

Japanese name: 南京町 Japanese address: 神戸市中央区元町通・栄町通 English address: Motomachi-dori and Sakaemachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi Telephone: +81-78-332-2896 Opening hours: Varies by shop Nearest transport: Subway: 2-minute walk from exit 1 of Kyukyoryuchi-Daimarumae Station on the Kobe Municipal Subway Kaigan Line. Train: 3-minute walk from the east exit of Motomachi Station on the JR Kobe Line and Hanshin Main Line. District: Sannomiya-Motomachi Website (Japanese): Official Website Admission: Varies by facility

:: Read reviews of Kobe Chinatown on TripAdvisor.com

Other Attractions in Kobe

If you’re planning to spend more than a single day in Kobe, there are still plenty more sights to see.

Western-style mansion in Kitano-cho, Kobe. Editorial credit: Shawn.ccf / Shutterstock.com

Located at the foot of the Rokko mountain range, Kitano-cho is the former residential area for foreign merchants during the second half of the 19th century. The mansions are built in various styles, such as Western-Chinese, French, and Tudor. Several of these former residences are open to the public as museums. The history and architecture might be a little more interesting for Japanese tourists, but Kitano-cho is still worth a wander around for most visitors. Even if you don’t visit any of the houses, the area has many cafes, restaurants, high-end fashion stores, and boutiques to enjoy.

Japanese name: 北野町 Japanese address: 〒650-0002 神戸市中央区北野町 English address: Kitano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, 650-0002 Telephone: +81-78-251-8360 (Kitano Tourist Information) Opening hours: Varies by facility Nearest transport: Subway: 10-minute walk from the south exit of Shinkobe Station on the Kobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line. Train: 15-minute walk from Sannomiya / Kobe Sannomiya Station. District: Kitano-cho Website: Kobe Kitano Ijinkan-gai Admission: Varies by facility

:: Read reviews of Kitano-cho on TripAdvisor.com

Hot springs in Arima Onsen

Arima Onsen

If you’re looking for a relaxing stay at a Japanese inn, consider extending your stay in Kobe at Arima Onsen. This compact little hot spring town is located on the other side of Mount Rokko. Surrounded by gorgeous mountains, it’s especially pretty in the fall. It’s a popular day trip and weekend getaway for Kansai residents.

It’s fun exploring the narrow streets of Arima Onsen, and visiting the small temples and shrines that dot the town. Best of all are the hot springs. Staying in one of the Japanese inns will net you access to a bath with the waters of the area, but day trippers can soak in a number of the public baths. Try Kin no Yu, with its iron-rich brown waters; or Gin no Yu, with its clear carbonate and radium-rich waters.

Japanese name: 有馬温泉 Japanese address: 〒651-1401 神戸市北区有馬町 English address: Arima-cho, Kita-ku, Kobe-shi, 651-1401 Telephone: +81-78-904-0708 (Arima Hot Springs Tourism Association) Opening hours: Varies by facility Nearest transport: Train: Arima-Onsen Station on the Shintetsu Arima Line. District: Arima Onsen Website: Official Website Admission: Varies by facility

:: Read reviews of Arima Onsen on TripAdvisor.com

The main building of Ikuta Shrine in Kobe

Ikuta Shrine

Reputedly founded at the beginning of the 3rd century AD, Ikuta Shrine is one of the oldest shrines in Japan. It’s a 10-minute walk from Sannomiya Station. The goddess of fabric, Wakahiru-no-mikoto, is enshrined here. It’s believed that she ties and connects people’s fates together. Today, it’s a popular spot for those seeking to find love and relationships. A nice little shrine to stop by if you’re in the Sannomiya area.

Japanese name: 生田神社 Japanese address: 〒650-0011 神戸市中央区下山手通1-2-1 English address: 1-2-1 Shimoyamate-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, 650-0011 Telephone: +81-78-321-3851 Opening hours: 7am-5pm Nearest transport: Subway and Train: 1-minute walk from the subway west exit 3 of Sannomiya / Kobe Sannomiya Station. District: Sannomiya-Motomachi Website (Japanese): Official Website Admission:

:: Read reviews of Ikuta Shrine on TripAdvisor.com

The main strolling pond in Sorakuen Garden

Sorakuen Garden

Opened to the public in 1941, Sorakuen Garden is a traditional Japanese landscape garden. Spend a morning strolling around the central pond and taking in the sights. One of the best times to visit Sorakuen Garden is during late April to early May, when more than 4000 azaleas burst into bloom. Chrysanthemums are also exhibited here for a month from late October to late November. Those interested in local history and architecture will be pleased to note that the garden is also home to the Hassam House, which once belonged to a British-Indian trader in the early 1900s.

Japanese name: 相楽園 Japanese address: 〒650-0004 神戸市中央区中山手通5-3-1 English address: 5-3-1 Nakayamate-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, 650-0004 Telephone: +81-78-351-5155 Opening hours: 9am-5pm (last entry 4:30pm). Closed Thursday or the following Friday when Thursday is a national holiday Nearest transport: Subway: 3-minute walk from the west exit 2 of Kenchomae Station on the Kobe Municipal Subway Seishin-Yamate Line. Train: 7-minute walk from the west exit of Motomachi Station on the JR Kobe Line and Hanshin Main Line. District: Sannomiya-Motomachi Website: Official Website Admission: Adults: JPY300. Elementary and junior high school students: JPY150

:: Read reviews of Sorakuen Garden on TripAdvisor.com

Kobe Municipal Arboretum

Kobe Municipal Arboretum

If you love botanical gardens, the Kobe Municipal Arboretum is a must-visit. A short bus ride and just JPY300 gives you entry to this vast natural oasis. Also known as the Kobe City Botanical Garden, the gardens sprawl over 143 hectares, and it’s covered with forests, flowers, and all manner of plants. Whether it’s the spectacular hydrangeas in June or the vibrant fall foliage, the garden is gorgeous all year round. Plant-lovers will want to make the trek out for this place.

Japanese name: 神戸市立森林植物園 Japanese address: 〒651-1102 神戸市北区山田町上谷上字長尾1-2 English address: 1-2 Nagao, Yamadacho-kamitanigami, Kita-ku, Kobe-shi, 651-1102 Telephone: +81-78-591-0253 Opening hours: 9am-5pm (last entry 4:30pm). Closed Wednesday or the following Thursday when Wednesday is a national holiday Nearest transport: Bus: Free shuttle bus from Kitasuzurandai Station on the Shintetsu Arima Line. District: Mount Rokko Website (machine translation): Official Website Admission: Adults: JPY300. Elementary and junior high school students: JPY150

:: Read reviews of Kobe Municipal Arboretum on TripAdvisor.com

Sannomiya Center Street

Sannomiya Center Street

One of the busiest shopping areas in Kobe is Sannomiya Centre Street, a shopping arcade stretching 550 meters between the Sannomiya and Motomachi areas. It’s a real mix of local shops and larger chain shops. You can find pretty much anything here, from books and food to furniture and home electronics. It’s fun to wander along or sit at a cafe and watch people go about their day. As a covered shopping arcade, it’s also a nice rainy day option.

Japanese name: 三宮センター街 Japanese address: 〒650-0021 神戸市中央区三宮町 English address: Sannomiya-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, 650-0021 Telephone: +81-78-331-3548 Opening hours: Varies by shop Nearest transport: Train and Subway: 3-minute walk from Sannomiya / Kobe Sannomiya Station. District: Sannomiya-Motomachi Website (Japanese): Official Website Admission: Free

:: Read reviews of Sannomiya Center Street on TripAdvisor.com

Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art

Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art

Located on Kobe’s waterfront, the building for the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art was designed by the world-famous architect Tadao Ando. It houses an excellent permanent collection of 20th century artworks from Japan and abroad. Think painting, sculptures, prints, and more. Worth a visit if you’re interested in modern and contemporary Japanese art.

Japanese name: 兵庫県立美術館 Japanese address: 〒651-0073 神戸市中央区脇浜海岸通1-1-1 English address: 1-1-1 Wakinohamakaigan-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, 651-0073 Telephone: +81-78-262-0901 Opening hours: 10am-6pm (last entry 5:30pm). 10am-8pm (Friday and Saturday during special exhibitions, last entry 7:30pm). Closed Monday or the following Tuesday when Monday is a national holiday Nearest transport: Train: 8-minute walk from Iwaya Station on the Hanshin Main Line. District: Bay Website: Official Website Admission: Adults: JPY500. University students: JPY400. 70 years and older: JPY250

:: Read reviews of Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art on TripAdvisor.com

The Kobe City Museum. Editorial credit: TK Kurikawa / Shutterstock.com

Kobe City Museum

Opened in 1982, the Kobe City Museum resides in a former Bank of Tokyo building. The museum speciality is Namban art or “art of the Southern barbarians.” During the 16th and 17th century, the Portuguese brought paintings to Japan; Japanese artists at the time also created many representations – in many cases, caricatures – of these European visitors in the form of paintings, scrolls, and folding screens. Besides Namban art, the museum also counts numerous archeological objects, maps, and historical documents among its exhibits. It’s worth a visit if you have time or a special interest in these aspects of Japanese history.

Japanese name: 神戸市立博物館 Japanese address: 〒650-0034 神戸市中央区京町24 English address: 24 Kyo-machi, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, 650-0034 Telephone: +81-78-391-0035 Opening hours: 10am-5pm (Sunday and Tuesday-Friday, last entry 4:30pm). 10am-9pm (Saturday, last entry 8:30pm). Closed Monday or the following Tuesday when Monday is a national holiday Nearest transport: Subway: 6-minute walk from exit 3 of Kyukyoryuchi-Daimarumae Station on the Kobe Municipal Subway Kaigan Line. Train: 10-minute walk from Sannomiya / Kobe Sannomiya Station. District: Sannomiya-Motomachi Website: Official Website Admission (Collection Room): Adults: JPY300. University students: JPY150

:: Read reviews of Kobe City Museum on TripAdvisor.com

The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Museum

The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Museum

Those wanting to learn about the 1995 Great Hanshin Awaji Earthquake should spend a few hours in The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Museum. Located on the city’s waterfront, the museum was opened in 2002 as a commemoration and education facility. The aftermath of the earthquake is well-catalogued here, with plenty of photographs, testimonies, and documentary films. It’s also a good place to learn about the danger earthquakes pose, starting with the interactive games about disaster prevention.

Japanese name: 阪神・淡路大震災記念 人と防災未来センター Japanese address: 〒651-0073 神戸市中央区脇浜海岸通1-5-2 English address: 1-5-2 Wakinohamakaigan-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, 651-0073 Telephone: +81-78-262-5050 Opening hours: October-June: 9:30am-5:30pm (Sunday and Tuesday-Thursday, last entry 4:30pm), 9:30am-7pm (Friday and Saturday, last entry 6pm). July-September: 9:30am-6pm (Sunday and Tuesday-Thursday, last entry 5pm), 9:30am-7pm (Friday and Saturday, last entry 6pm). Closed Monday or the following Tuesday when Monday is a national holiday Nearest transport: Train: 10-minute walk from Kasuganomichi Station on the Hanshin Main Line. District: Bay Website: Official Website Admission: Adults: JPY600. University students: JPY450. 70 years and older: JPY300

:: Read reviews of The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Museum on TripAdvisor.com

View the full size version of the InsideKyoto.com Kobe Google map .

You will see the list of places on the left hand side. (Click the 3-line icon in the top left corner if not). Scroll down or use the map search (the magnifying glass icon) to find the place you want.

Click the name of the place in the list. Its location pin will be highlighted on the map.

Map pins are color coded: BLUE: Hotels VIOLET: Ryokan PINK: Places to Eat YELLOW: Things to See and Do

Kobe Travel Guide:

  • Kobe Travel Guide Overview
  • Things To Do In Kobe
  • Places To Eat In Kobe
  • Kobe Itineraries
  • Family-friendly Attractions in Kobe
  • Kobe Cherry Blossoms
  • Kobe Fall Foliage
  • Kobe Districts
  • Kobe Ryokan
  • Kobe Hotels
  • How To Get To Kobe
  • Getting Around Kobe
  • Best Time To Go To Kobe

Kyoto Vacation Checklist

  • For all the essentials in a brief overview, see my First Time In Kyoto guide
  • Check Kyoto accommodation availability on Booking.com – usually you can reserve a room with no upfront payment. Pay when you check out. Free cancellations too
  • Need tips on where to stay? See my one page guide Where To Stay In Kyoto
  • See my comprehensive Packing List For Japan
  • Buy a data-only SIM card online for collection when you arrive at Kansai International Airport (for Osaka and Kyoto) or Tokyo's Narita Airport . Or rent an unlimited data pocket wifi router
  • Compare Japan flight prices and timings to find the best deals
  • If you're visiting more than one city, you might save money with Japan Rail Pass – see if it's worth it for you
  • A prepaid Suica card makes travelling around Kyoto easy – here's how
  • World Nomads offers simple and flexible travel insurance. Buy at home or while traveling and claim online from anywhere in the world

Kyoto District Map

japan travel guide kobe

  • Central Kyoto
  • Northwest Kyoto
  • Northern Higashiyama
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  • Downtown Kyoto
  • Kyoto Station Area
  • South East Kyoto

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15 Things to do in Kobe, Japan

02/21/2024 By Traveling Canucks Leave a Comment Categories: Japan Kobe Popular Rugby World Cup Travel Stories Trip Ideas

Kobe Harborland night scene, Kobe Port Tower, things to do in Kobe, Japan

Things to do in Kobe, Japan

While it may not have the prestige and quirkiness of Tokyo , or the history and culture of Kyoto , the city of Kobe deserves a spot on your Japan travel itinerary. In this Kobe travel guide, we share some of the fun things to do in Kobe, from dipping your toes in ancient hot springs to sampling the delicious wagyu beef that shares its name. 

If this is your first time learning about the city of Kobe, you are not alone.

Kobe is not typically ranked high on the list of places to visit in Japan . It’s often overlooked and most certainly underrated. We hope to change that with this Kobe blog post.

Located 30 km (19 miles) west of Osaka, many visitors will travel to Kobe as a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto. If you don’t have a lot of time, this might be your best option.

When we visited Japan back in 2009, that was our approach. We made Kyoto our home base and took day trips to Kobe, Osaka, Nara and Hiroshima. The Japanese rail system is fast and efficient, so it’s easy to cover a lot of ground.

However, if you have a couple of days in Kobe, you’ll find plenty of fun and interesting things to keep you busy and entertained. This blog post highlights the things we did during our three days in Kobe .  

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Table of Contents

Related post – 25 Japan travel tips for first timers

Kobe beef street food in Kobe Chinatown, things to do in Kobe Japan

1. Try some delicious Kobe Beef

First on the list of things to do in Kobe is to indulge in the delicacy that shares it’s name – Kobe beef.

Unless, of course, you don’t eat meat. If that’s you, skip to the next recommendation.

Kobe is famous for wagyu beef , arguably the finest cut of beef in the world, which comes from the Tajima strain of Japanese Black cattle. People travel from far and wide to taste this mouth-watering, perfectly-marbled beef. 

Similar to drinking Champagne in Champagne, France or sipping port wine in Porto , Portugal, you must try Kobe Beef in Kobe. There are specific rules about what beef can be classified as true Kobe Beef and Kobe is where you’ll find the real deal.

The moment you step off the train at Kobe-Sannomiya Station you are reminded that Kobe Beef is a big deal in these parts. Signs and advertisements are scattered throughout the city promoting a variety of ways to indulge yourself, from Kobe beef teppanyaki to Kobe beef sushi.

Kobe beef is an expensive cut of meat , so your travel budget will dictate the best way to experience this celebrated Japanese cuisine. High-end steakhouses offer multi-course meals that serve a variety of cuts and styles of wagyu beef . Go ahead and splurge; you’re worth it!

Related – Beginner’s guide to eating food in Japan  

japan travel guide kobe

Most restaurants that serve Kobe beef will have a black cow statue outside the restaurant. This is the Japanese Black, which is the breed of Japanese beef cattle known as wagyu. 

Kobe beef sushi at ramen restaurant in Kobe, Japan

Kobe beef sushi

Many ramen and sushi restaurants in Kobe will serve Kobe beef sushi. If you’re not interested in dropping big coin at a fancy Kobe beef restaurant, beef sushi is an inexpensive way to sample the goods.

A single piece of Kobe beef nigiri costs 800 Yen (approx $10.00 CAD).

kobe beef ramen, things to do in Kobe Japan

Kobe Beef Ramen

There are many ways to get the tasty wagyu in your belly. The above was captured at a small ramen restaurant in Kobe that was recommended by friends.

This miso ramen dish is served with four different ways to eat Kobe beef .  

photo of Kobe beef ramen Yazawa near Kobe-Sannomiya in Kobe, Japan

Above is a photo of Kobe beef ramen Yazawa . It’s small, so you might miss it. 

japan travel guide kobe

2. Kobe Port Tower

The most recognizable landmark in Kobe is the Kobe Port Tower. The 354 foot tower has multiple observation floors that offer 360 degree panoramic views of the city, harbor and Mount Rokko.  

Kobe Port Tower is open year round. Depending on when you travel to Kobe, the best time to visit the Port Tower observation deck is just before sunset. The city sparkles at night. 

Admission to the Port Tower is 700 yen for adults ($9.00 CAD) and 300 yen for children ($4.00). 

More info about the Kobe Tower here .

japan travel guide kobe

3. Meriken Park

Meriken Park is a waterfront park located in the Kobe port area. It is home to some of Kobe’s most iconic architecture, including the Kobe Port Tower, Kobe Maritime Museum (pictured above) and Meriken Park Oriental Hotel . 

The Kobe Maritime Museum is also home to Kawasaki Good Times World , a museum dedicated to the 100+ year history of Kawasaki and it’s many products, including Shinkansen trains, jet planes, helicopters and motorcycles. More info about the museum here .

You will also find the Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park on the east side of Meriken Park .

The Kobe Japan earthquake, or Great Hanshin earthquake, occurred on January 17, 1995 in the southern part of Hyogo Prefecture. The earthquake killed 5,378 people, damaged or destroyed 152,000 buildings, and is said to the most expensive earthquake ever to strike an urban area [ source ]. 

Mosaic Ferris Wheel at Kobe Harborland, Things to do in Kobe with Kids

4. Mosaic Ferris Wheel

If you’re visiting Kobe with kids, the Mosaic Ferris Wheel at Kobe Harborland is a fun activity. Similar to the observation deck at the Port Tower, the Mosaic Big Ferris Wheel offers 360 degree views of the waterfront, port, city and mountains. 

The Kobe Big Ferris Wheel operates from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Each ride costs 800 yen for adults ($10.00 CAD). The air conditioned gondolas can fit up to four people.

All smiles inside the Mosaic Ferris Wheel at Kobe Harborland

All smiles inside the Mosaic Ferris Wheel at Harborland.

Views of the Kobe Port Tower and Mount Rokko from inside the Mosaic Ferris Wheel, things to do in Kobe Japan

Panoramic views of the Port Tower and Mt. Rokko from inside the Mosaic Ferris Wheel.

Mosaic Ferris Wheel at night, Kobe Harborland night photography

 Mosaic Ferris Wheel has over 120,000 LEDs that put on a show at night. 

japan travel guide kobe

5. Kobe Harborland

Kobe Harborland is a large shopping complex located on the waterfront across from the port, facing Kobe Port Tower and Meriken Park Oriental Hotel.

Harborland has become one of Kobe’s top tourist attractions with over 200 stores, restaurants, museums and entertainment. 

If you only have one night in Kobe, we recommend you visit Kobe Harborland and dine at one of the waterfront restaurants at Mosaic. The Fisherman’s Market at Kobe Mosaic is quite popular.

The Mosaic boardwalk is arguably the best place in Kobe to watch the sunset. 

Kobe Harborland is home to Anpanman Theme park and Kobe Anpanman Children’s Museum , located behind the Mosaic Ferris Wheel. It also has video arcades and games room, so you’re kids will have plenty to keep them entertained. 

While you’re in the neighborhood, take a stroll down Kobe Gaslight Street and check out the 9th-century red brick warehouses called Renga Soko .

japan travel guide kobe

We ate dinner at the conveyor belt sushi restaurant at Kobe Harborland (also called rotation sushi, sushi train  and  kaiten sushi) . 

It’s a fun and easy way to sample a variety of sushi. Not only does the sushi come out quickly, you can actually see the items as they pass your table. This is ideal for first timers who are nervous about trying sushi and raw fish for the first time.

Related – Your travel guide to eating Japanese Food in Japan

japan travel guide kobe

6. Kobe Bay Cruise

Get a different perspective of this bustling port city by taking a Kobe Bay Cruise . Cruises sail around the bay and last about 40 minutes.

The boat is docked at Meriken Park beside the red Port Tower. See photo above. You can purchase tickets directly at the dock. Boats depart every hour, so you have options. 

Another option is the Kobe Concerto cruise.

The ship is docked in front of Harbourland (see photo below) and offers a dining experience while cruising around the bay. You can join a lunch cruise that typically departs at 12:00 noon, tea cruise that departs at 2:30 PM, twilight cruise that departs at 5:15 PM and a night cruise that departs at 7:30 PM. 

Read more Japan blog posts .

japan travel guide kobe

7. Rokko Cable Car

The Rokko Cable Car is a Japanese funicular that transports guests to the top of Mt. Rokko. The cable car opened in 1932 and is one of the top Kobe tourist attractions. 

It takes 10 minutes to get from the Rokko Cable Shita station , located at the base of the mountain, to Rokko Sanjo station at the top of the mountain. The elevation gain is approximately 500 metres. 

It’s best to get the Rokkosan Tourist pass for 1200 yen. This pass includes bus fare to get to Rokko Cable Shita station, the cable car ride, and the bus to the Mount Rokko Tourism Area. More info here .

Outside the Rokko Cable Car station in Kobe Japan

Outside the Rokko Cable Car station. This is at the base of Mount Rokko . 

Mount Rokko Garden Terrace | Things to do in Kobe Japan

8. Rokko Garden Terrace

Rokko Garden Terrace, pictured above, is the perfect place to get panoramic views of the city, ocean and mountains.

It’s a tourist complex with viewing platforms, an observation tower, multiple restaurants and small retail shops that sell souvenirs, ice cream, drinks and snacks.

Grilling meat and vegetables at Rokkosan Genghis Khan Palace restaurant on Mount Rokko in Kobe, Japan

Rokkosan Genghis Khan Palace

For a unique lunch, visit the Rokkosan Genghis Khan Palace . Grill fresh meats, seafood and vegetables on a hot cast iron plate that sits on your dining table.

It’s a fun dining experience for everyone. 

Related – Quick Guide to Japanese Food for Tourists

Cook food at your table at Rokkosan Genghis Khan Palace, Things to do in Kobe Japan

Map of things to do on Mount Rokko in Kobe Japan.

You can easily spend a full day visiting the small tourist attractions on Mount Rokko. It has a botanical garden, forest adventure park with zipline and treetop obstacle course, the music box museum, small golf course and the Rokko Garden Terrace .

Rokko Shidare Observatory on Mount Rokko in Kobe, Japan

The beehive structure in the above photo is the Rokko Shidare Observatory. 

Observation platform at Mount Rokko, Things to do in Kobe for tourists

The best views of Kobe and Hyogo Prefecture are found at the top of Mount Rokko.

views of Kobe city from Mount Rokko viewing platform at Rokko Garden Terrace, things to do in Kobe for tourists

9. Rokko-Arima Ropeway

The Rokko-Arima Ropeway is an aerial tramway that travels 2.8 kilometres (1.7 miles) from Rokko Sancho station to Arima Onsen. You can walk from the Rokko Tourist Area to the Rokko Sancho station, so it’s an easy addition to your Kobe day trip.

The one way trip from Mount Rokko to Arima Onsen takes 12 minutes and costs 1030 yen ($13.00 CAD). Round trip tickets cost 1850 yen ($23.00).

You might also want to visit the Maya Ropeway and Shin-Kobe Ropeway during your visit to Kobe. 

Related –  25 Japan travel tips for first timers

Inside Rokko Sancho station at the Rokko-Arima Ropeway to Arima Onsen Kobe Japan

Rokko Sancho station at the top of the Rokko-Arima Ropeway.

Kobe travel - Traveling down from Mount Rokko inside the tram on the Rokko-Arima Ropeway towards Arima Onsen Hot Springs

 Inside the aerial tram descending from Mount Rokko to Arima Onsen . 

Mountain views from the Rokko-Arima Ropeway tram to Arima Onsen Hot Springs, Kobe travel guide

Lush mountain landscapes from the Rokko-Arima ropeway . 

Aerial tram at Mount Rokko-Arima ropeway at Arima Onsen Station, Kobe travel guide

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Arima Onsen village, things to do in Kobe Japan

10. Arima Onsen

One of the most popular Kobe attractions is Arima Onsen . We’re told it’s Japan’s oldest and most famous hot spring town.

Wandering the narrow streets of Arima Onsen offers a glimpse into Japan’s ancient past. It’s said that emperors and samurai would visit Arima Onsen to soak in its healing hot springs. 

Arima Onsen is accessible by taking the Rokko Cable Car and Rokko-Arima Ropeway , which makes for a fun day trip from Kobe. Plan for a full day if you want to include time on Mount Rokko. Or stay overnight at a traditional Japanese ryokan .

There are only two public bath houses in Arima Onsen. Some ryokan hotels will open their private baths to visitors during the day. Admission ranges between 500 and 2500 yen ($6.00 CAD to $30.00 CAD).

See a list of hot spring baths in Arima Onsen here .

If you’re travelling with kids, it’s important to know that there are special rules for bathing at Japanese onsen . We were not allowed to bathe as a family at the public bath house at Arima Onsen (men and women cannot bath together, even with kids). Keep this in mind and plan accordingly.

japan travel guide kobe

If you’re not keen to spend time at a bath house or ryokan, you can soak your feet at Taiko no Ashiyu . It’s a free public foot bath in Arima Onsen .

It is located outside Kin no Yu (Arima golden Hot-spring public spa).

The water is kept at 42.3 degree Celsius, so it’s hot! I don’t think any of us lasted longer than one minute. 

family travel at Arima Onsen in Kobe, Japan

The town of Arima Onsen has small retail shops, restaurants and shrines. 

shrine at Arima Onsen, things to do in Kobe with kids, Japan travel guide

Related –  50 Photos of Kyoto that will inspire you to visit

Kobe travel guide - the gazebo in Nankinmachi Square in Kobe Chinatown

11. Nankin-machi – Kobe Chinatown

More than 100 restaurants and shops make up Kobe’s Chinatown, also known as Nankin-machi .

It’s one of Japan’s largest Chinatowns, although it only covers a geographical area of approximately 200 x 100 meters. 

The lively streets of Nankinmachi see a constant flow of people, especially in the evening. This is a great place to sample a variety of street food in Kobe, including steamed dumplings, pork buns, Peking duck wraps, noodle soups and deep fried croquettes. 

street food in Kobe Chinatown, things to do in Kobe Japan

Kobe Chinatown has several street food vendors with small bites for sale.

A vendor in Kobe Chinatown sells a variety of street food, including fatty pork buns

Tasty steamed pork buns for sale in Chinatown. 

Kobe Chinatown buildings at night. Traditional Chinese Architecture in Kobe. night street photograph

Chinatown is a fun place to experience Kobe at night.

The gazebo in Nankinmachi Square in Kobe Chinatown - things to do in Kobe Japan

The iconic gazebo in Nankinmachi Square in Kobe Chinatown .

Choanmon Gate welcomes visitors to Kobe Chinatown, night photo of big gate at entrance to Kobe Chinatown

Choanmon Gate welcomes visitors to Kobe Chinatown.

ornate Seian-mon Gate in Nankin-machi Kobe Chinatown, night photo of big gate to Kobe Chinatown in Kobe, Japan

Above is the ornate Seian-mon Gate in Nankin-machi.

covered shopping street in central Kobe, tourist shopping area Kobe Japan

12. Motomachi Shopping Street

One of the things we love about Japan is its pedestrian only shopping streets.  Motomachi Shopping Street is a shopping district in central Kobe with hundreds of retail shops and restaurants. 

The popular street is located in the center of Kobe near some of its top tourist attractions, such as Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown), Kobe City Museum, Meriken Park and Harborland.

It stretches between Motomachi Station and Kobe Station, so it’s easily accessible from anywhere in the city.

street in Kobe Japan will lots of neon signs and lights

13. Ikuta Shrine

The most famous temple in Kobe is Ikuta Shrine , said to be one of the oldest shrines in Japan.

Ikuta Shrine is centrally located and easy to access by foot from Sannomiya Station . 

There are many temples, shrines and tori gates within the grounds at Ikuta Shrine.

Plan to spend at least one hour exploring the this beautiful shrine. The temple is free to enter. 

main gate at the entrance to Ikuta Shrine, things to do in Kobe Japan

Above is the main entrance gate to Ikuta Shrine. 

Row of bright orange torii gates inside Ikuta Shrine, Kobe Japan

Row of bright orange torii gates inside Ikuta Shrine. 

japan travel guide kobe

The temples and shrines in Japan are remarkable and worth visiting, even if you’re not religious.

japan travel guide kobe

14. Kobe Oji Zoo

The Kobe Oji Zoo is conveniently located a few train stations from central Kobe-Sannomiya Station. Admission to the zoo is only 600 yen for adults (approx $7.00 CAD) and kids are free, making it an inexpensive family activity in Kobe.  

The zoo is home to over 850 animals and birds from 150 different species, including rarely seen animals like the giant panda, golden snub-nosed monkey, Amur tiger, polar bear and snow-leopard. 

Learn about Oji Zoo and see a list of animals here .

rare giant panda at Kobe Oji Zoo, things to do in Kobe with kids

The giant panda is the star attraction at Kobe Oji Zoo.

japan travel guide kobe

An unusual amusement park at the Kobe Zoo

The amusement park inside Kobe Zoo is  interesting , to say the least. We expect a little weird and wacky from  Japan . It’s what makes Japan such a fascinating country to visit, in our opinion.

As soon as we entered the amusement park we were instantly transported back in time. While the zoo has an impressive line up of animals, the park facilities appear to have been left behind.  

Watch this short video from the Kobe Zoo amusement park.

Read more – The unusual amusement park at Kobe Oji Zoo

Rugby Match at Kobe Misaki Stadium, things to do in Kobe Japan

15. Rugby Match at Kobe Misaki Stadium

Even if you’re not a rugby fan, it’s fun to watch a live sporting event at Kobe Misaki Stadium .

Also known as Noevir Stadium Kobe , it has a retractable roof and capacity of 30,000 people. It’s home to the Kobelco Steelers , a rugby union Top League team. Check the team schedule prior to your visit to see if the team is playing. 

The stadium is also home to Vissel Kobe , a Japanese professional football club in the J1 League. It’s the top tier of football in Japan. Kobe Misaki Stadium hosted matches at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

We were fortunate to watch a live Rugby World Cup match here. The 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan is the first Rugby World Cup to be held in Asia. 

Read about our experience at the Rugby World Cup in Japan .

Inside Kobe Misaki Stadium at the Japan Rugby World Cup

Inside Kobe Misaki Stadium at the Japan Rugby World Cup.

japan travel guide kobe

Other things to do in Kobe

During our first trip to Kobe, before having kids, we visited these attractions that are also worth visiting.

  • Nada Sake District – sample sake at a variety of Sake Breweries in Kobe. More info here .
  • Shin-Kobe Ropeway – located beside the Shin-Kobe train station. If you’re taking a day trip from to Kobe to Osaka or Kyoto, you will likely arrive at this train station. We recommend you take this cable instead of the Rokko Cablecar, to maximize your time. 
  • Nunobiki Waterfall  – if you’d rather go for a hike in the mountains, skip the Skin-Kobe Ropeway and hike to this 43 meter waterfall. The trail also passes the Miharashi Observatory , which offers nice views of the city.
  • Kitano Ijinkan – also located near the Kobe Shinkansen station, this historical district is home to a number of foreign residences and mansions, known as Ijinkan. Some of them have converted into public museums. More info here .

Read more Japan blog posts here:

  • 25 Japan travel tips for first timers
  • 50 Photos of Kyoto that will inspire you to visit
  • The perfect 3 day Tokyo itinerary for tourists
  • Your Guide to Food in Japan for first time visitors
  • 100 Photos of Tokyo Disneyland, Japan
  • Staying at a Tokyo Disney Resort – Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Review

japan travel guide kobe

Have you visited Kobe? What did we miss?

Share your recommendations and travel tips below. Our readers thank you!

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Kobe blog — the fullest kobe travel guide & suggested kobe travel itinerary for 2 days for first-timers.

japan travel guide kobe

Kobe is surrounded by the majestic mountain of Rokko and is home to more than 1.6 million inhabitants. This port city located just outside Osaka Bay is also an extremely effective place to relieve stress and fatigue where you can enjoying a traditional Japanese hot spring bath (Onsen), enjoying aromatic sake wine and tasting the authentic Kobe beef . So, what to do and how to visit Kobe for the first-time?

  • Kobe beef blog — Visit Kobe & enjoying Kobe beef, one of the most delicious foods in Japan
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japan travel guide kobe

Read more: What to do in Kobe? — 10 must, best things to do in Kobe & top things to do in Kobe.

Kobe is also the birthplace of the world famous Kobe beef . These cows are fed with young grass, listen to symphonic music, drink beer, and massage to produce premium meat at a high price.

kobe wagyu

So, is Kobe worth visiting, how to visit Kobe, what to do in Kobe and how to plan a budget trip to Kobe for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Kobe travel blog (Kobe blog) with the fullest Kobe travel guide (guide to Kobe, Kobe tourist guide, Kobe city guide, Kobe guide) from how to get to Kobe, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Kobe, and the suggested Kobe travel itinerary for 2 days to find out the answer! to help you maximize your trip as follows!

japan travel guide kobe

Kobe travel guide: Overview of Kobe

Kobe is one of the six largest cities in Japan, located on Honshu Island, in Hyogo Prefecture, and is also one of the most active, busiest commercial port cities and is also one of the first cities to open business with Western countries since 1868. Kobe’s area is about 552.8 km2 and the population is nearly 1.6 million people.

japan travel guide kobe

After the port was opened in 1868, Kobe has become a gathering place for many foreign tourists and businessmen, so Kobe’s city landscape is very characteristic. That is why Kobe is a symbolic city with Western style.

Kobe is one of the main seaports of Japan, known as a miniature Europe of the East. With beautiful architecture of Western luxury style combined with vibrant natural scenery all year round brings a strong attraction to this city. The special thing is that although this is considered as a miniature Western city, the pace of life is not in a hurry or hustle.

japan travel guide kobe

5 reasons why you should visit Kobe:

  • To learn about the traditional Sake rice wine
  • Enjoy the world-wide famous Kobe beef
  • Experience amazing mountain hiking trails
  • Visit the countless museums in Kobe
  • Check-in at landmark buildings with unique architecture

When to visit? (#kobe blog)

japan travel guide kobe

Kobe city is located in the southern part of Japan. Therefore, the weather and climate in Kobe is somewhat warmer and more pleasant than other cities located in the North. Winter is not too cold and there is no snow. However, in summer, the temperature is quite high, it is very hot, moreover, it often rains. Therefore, you should not go in summer. For the rest of the year you can visit Kobe at anytime you want.

Kobe has a temperate climate, warm all year round and the everage temperature is about 15 degrees Celsius. However, there is heavy rainfall throughout the year, with December being the driest month. You remember to bring a raincoat or umbrella if you travel Kobe in June.

japan travel guide kobe

Kobe travel blog: How to get to Kobe?

By plane (#kobe blog).

Kobe Airport (UKB) is located 10km from the city center. There is also Kansai International Airport (KIX) which is 70km from the city. From Kobe Airport, you can take the Port Island Line (“Port Liner”) train to Kobe-Sannomiya station for a fare of 330 yen.

If you want to travel from Kansai International Airport to Sannomiya Station, you can take the airport Limousine bus which costs about 1.980 yen/one-way.

japan travel guide kobe

If you traveling by Japan Railways from Osaka, Tokyo and Kyoto, you will stop at Sannomiya Station in Kobe. Or arrival at Shin-Kobe Station (JR Kobe) if you take the shinkansen bullet train, 1km from that to the north. The traveling costs around 310 – 600 yen.

japan travel guide kobe

From Osaka to Kobe: Take the JR train at Shin-Osaka Station or Osaka Station directly to JR Kobe Station or Sannomiya Station which takes about 30 minutes. Take the S.Rapid train is the fastest and no need to change the train.

From Kyoto to Kobe: Take the JR train from JR Kyoto Station directly to JR Kobe Station or Sannomiya Station which takes about 1 hour. This train is similar to the train as Osaka above, it will go from Kyoto to Osaka first and then to Kobe later.

japan travel guide kobe

If you choose to go by bus from Osaka or Tokyo, you can count on the express bus services offered by many carriers. The journey takes about 9-10 hours and costs around 5.000 – 11.000 yen. You can refer to and book tickets here .

Kobe travel blog: Getting around Kobe

Public transport.

Public transportation in Kobe includes subway, light rail and buses. You should buy one-day or two-day pass if you want to explore many places, priced at only 1000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children. The daily ticket called Hankyu Tourist Pass (1 Day or 2 Day), see more and buy here .

japan travel guide kobe

Alternatively, you can travel by taxi. Fares start at a fixed rate from 650 yen for the first km then go up to 324 yen for each subsequent kilometer. (1 mile = 1.6 km ~ 517 yen, so I calculated 1km ~ 324 yen).

Kobe japan travel guide: Best places to visit and top things to do in Kobe

Arima onsen.

Arima Onsen is a famous town for its many hot springs (Onsen) within the city territory, but is located on the opposite side of Mount Rokko from the center view. The town is set in a natural mountainous area, close enough to Kobe and Osaka to make a day trip easily. This is a popular getaway for locals and tourists on weekends.

A representative hot spring and one of Japan’s three oldest hot springs. There are 2 hot springs called “Golden Spring” and “Silver Spring”. Golden spring is a famous spring with reddish brown water that warms your body and soul. While The carbon-covered silver spring and gentle hot water will slowly blow away the fatigue and stimulate your feeling of eating.

japan travel guide kobe

Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets, Arima Onsen, and Mount Rokko Tour from Osaka

Kitano Tenman Shrine

Kitano Tenman-jinja Shrine is a popular sightseeing spot. Built in 1180, the temple dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane – is the Japanese God of academics, scholarship, learning. On festival occasions, visitors can watch many traditional rituals taking place at the shrine.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 3 Chome-12-1 Kitanocho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0002, Japan Hours: 7:30AM–5PM

Kobe Earthquake Memorial Museum

On January 17, 1995, at 5:46 a.m., the city of Kobe suffered a massive earthquake called the Great Hanshin Awaji Earthquake. This led to the tragic deaths of more than 5.000 people and the destruction of tens of thousands of houses. So in 2002, the Kobe Earthquake Memorial Museum was established to commemorate this horrifying disaster, as well as to show to visitors about earthquakes and how to prevent disasters.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 1 Chome-5-2 Wakinohamakaigandori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-0073, Japan Hours: 9:30AM–5:30PM/Friday, Saturday: 9:30AM–7PM/Monday: Closed

Shin-Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway

The Shin-Kobe Ropeway is one of three ropeway services in Kobe that takes visitors up the southern slopes of the Rokko mountain range. The cable car departs from the side of Shin-Kobe Station and Shinkansen Station. A little higher up, the cable car will cross Nunobiki Waterfall and Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, giving visitors a wonderful natural view from above. The highlight of this cable car route is the observatory located next to the last terminal, where visitors can admire the majestic landscape and is a famous night view of Kobe.

japan travel guide kobe

Sorakuen Garden

Sorakuen is a traditional Japanese garden located in the center of Kobe city. The garden was once part of the residence of Kodera Kenkichi, the former mayor of Kobe, but was opened to the public in 1941.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 5 Chome-3-1 Nakayamatedori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0004, Japan Hours: 9AM–5PM/Thursday: Closed

Mount Rokko

Mount Rokko is the highest peak in the Rokko Mountains, bringing a pleasant green backdrop to the entire city of Kobe. From the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the largely urbanized Hanshin region (including Kobe and Osaka), and a beautiful sunset from above.

Mount Maya (Kikuseidai Observatory)

At the Kikuseidai Observatory on top of Mount Maya, near Mount Rokko, Kobe, you can admire the beautiful scenery from Osaka, Kobe, the Akashi Bridge from very far. The night scene “capturing the whole starry sky” is true to the origin that makes up its name, from a distance visitors can admire the wonderful light covering the night scene and admire the beautiful scenery that is indescribable.

japan travel guide kobe

Sake Breweries in Nada District

Nada is the most famous sake produce district througout Japan. Sake has long been a specialty of this region thanks to its delicious rice grains, abundant water resources, and ideal weather conditions. So there are a lot of Sake Breweries located in Nada prefecture.

Sake production in this land was formed and developed 700 years ago, maintained and preserved until today. Therefore, Sake is not only a specialty but also a symbol, brand, the national spirit of Japan.

japan travel guide kobe

Traveling to the land of cherry blossoms, you have ever enjoyed famous sake rice wine? But do you know where the famous Sake is produced? If in doubt, please visit the Nada district, located in the east of Kobe city, and visit the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum. This is Japan’s 6th largest Sake production site located in Kobe, where the famous sake is produced.

japan travel guide kobe

Nunobiki Falls

Climbing Rokko mountain, do not miss the beautiful scenery of Nunobiki waterfall. This waterfall has 4 separate levels: Ondaki, Mendaki, Tsusumigadaki, Meotodaki. In addition, behind this waterfall, there is also a very beautiful mysterious cave.

Nunobiki is a must-see natural scenic spot in Kobe, and along with Kegon Falls and Nachi Falls become the trio of majestic waterfalls that the most beautiful and also the most famous in Japan.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-0058, Japan

Sannomiya District

Sannomiya is Kobe’s central quarter, the neighborhood is always bustling.

Himeji Castle

Among the many ancient castles that exist to this day in Japan, Himeji is an ancient castle that less suffers from the effects of wars or natural disasters. Himeji Castle today still retains its original architecture as it was when it was originally built. Himeji Castle is recognized by Unesco as a world cultural heritage and is considered a treasure of Japan.

Japanese ancient castle 3

Address: 68 Honmachi, Himeji, Hyogo 670-0012, Japan Hours: 9AM–4PM

Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art

The museum is built based on the design of famous architect Tadao Ando, ​​is a very harmonious combination between indoor and outdoor spaces, bringing a bright, green color to building.

As an art museum, visiting Hyogo museum, you will admire the rich art collections of Japan and the world. The artistic works of famous artists are: Ryohei Koiso and Heizo Kanayama are regularly displayed at the museum for visitors to admire. There are also many pictures, paintings in Western style, paintings and sculptures of many Japanese and international artists are also exhibited here.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 1 Chome-1-1 Wakinohamakaigandori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-0073, Japan Hours: 10AM–6PM/Monday: Closed

Kobe Port Tower

Kobe Port Tower is a famous symbol of Kobe port city. The tower was built in 1963 with a height of 108 meters, the main color is pink and red. The tower’s architecture is inspired by a traditional musical instrument, called the Tsuzumi drum.

On top of the tower there is an observatory with a view of the bay and Rokko mountain. At night is the most beautiful time of the port tower, standing at the top of the tower, you will admire the whole beautiful scene with the charming and impressive light show of the entire port area and the suspension bridge of Akashi Kaiko.

Address: 5-5 Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0042, Japan Hours: 9AM–8:30PM

Maiko is a seaside park – a relaxing and enjoyable spot for visitors, also ideal spot for admiring the beauty of the Akashi Kaiko suspension bridge beyond the Kobe Port Tower site.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 4-2051 Higashimaikocho, Tarumi Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 655-0047, Japan

Suma Rikyu Park

Suma Rikyu Park was built to commemorate the wedding of Emperor in 1967. The park is a place where you can both see the sea and admire the splendor of flowers in four seasons. From spring to autumn, with more than 4,000 flowering plants of 180 types of roses in full bloom, this splendid landscape attracted many tourists to visit. There is also a grounds for viewing cherry blossoms, dahlia flowers and red leaves.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 1-1 Higashisuma, Suma Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 654-0018, Japan Hours: 9AM–5PM/Thursday: Closed

Nunobiki Herb Gardens

Nunobiki Herb Gardens is the most high-end parks in Japan with 75,000 flowers of more than 200 different types of flowers. Spring with cherry blossoms, summer with lavender, wisteria flower, and chrysanthemum in autumn, each season has its own beauty. Whatever season you come here, you can admire the beautiful flowers.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 1 Chome-4-3 Kitanocho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0002, Japan Hours: 10AM–5PM

Akashi Kaikyo Ohashi

Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge suspension bridge connects Honshu Island with Awaji Island, Shikoku. The suspension bridge not only has a beautiful and sturdy architecture, but its beauty is also embellished with the multi-color lighting system integrated on the bridge, the lighting system will change color in each season and time.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 4 Higashimaikocho, Tarumi Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 655-0047, Japan

Kawasaki Good Time World

The exhibition is located in the Kobe Maritime Museum and belongs to the Kawasaki Heavy Industries with a history of more than 100 years. Here, visitors will be delighted to see and experience the Shinkansen bullet train, motorbikes and helicopters.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 2-2 Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0042, Japan Hours: 10AM–5PM/Monday: Closed

Nankinmachi is Kobe’s Chinatown, always bustling, busy with many activities during the day, and always emits a complex aroma from Chinese restaurants with a Japanese twist. Nankinmachi Chinatown in Kobe was formed in the late 1800s. Traditional Chinese culture is still fully preserved in this Nankinmachi neighborhood.

japan travel guide kobe

Kitano-cho was inhabited by many Japanese merchants and diplomats in the 19th century. Their residence, called ljinkan, nowadays become museums to opening for visitors. There are also many Western cafes and restaurants in the Kitano area. Sitting down and sip a cup of coffee and watching people passing by or walking on tree-lined roads, widely iron gates, roadside reliefs. The special thing is that although this is considered as a miniature Western city, the pace of life is not in a hurry or hustle. Visitors can relax, watch the gardens, admiring architectural beauty of the houses.

japan travel guide kobe

Kyu-kyoryuchi

Kyu-kyoryuchi district is famous for many high-end fashion brands such as Gucci or Versace. There is also a district where many foreign consulates are located.

japan travel guide kobe

Meriken Waterfront Park

The Meriken harbour used to be where foreign ships unloaded but later moored at larger harbours nearby. The area is now Mariken Park and the marina there is only for cruises. The port tower in the park is 108m high and is the symbol of the port. From the top of the tower, visitors can see a beautiful view of the city, furthermore the city of Osaka and the island of Shikoku. Kobe’s largest shopping district is Sannomiya, located in the north of the port, between Sannomiya and Motomachi stations.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 2-2 Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0042, Japan

Kobe Harborland

You can walk out to Kobe Harborland from JR Kobe Station (step right out of the station you will see the signpost). On the way from JR Kobe to Harborland, there are also many beautiful spots to see and take pictures. Harborland is a shopping and entertainment area overlooking the port, so the scenery that both modern and romantic, very suitable for young people or couples. You can spend the whole day in this area because there are places to eat, shops, admire the scenery, especially sparkling and vibrant at night. If you come here in the summer (early August), you should not miss the spectacular fireworks festival.

Address: 1 Chome-3 Higashikawasakicho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0044, Japan Hours: 10AM–9PM

Kobe guide: Where to stay in Kobe?

If you are looking for a luxury accommodation, you should book a room in Hotel La Suite Kobe Harborland ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) or experience the Monterey Kobe Hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) . The more classic Kobe Motomachi Tokyu REI hotel ( Agoda.com or Booking.com ) , meanwhile, is a comfortable mid-range option.

japan travel guide kobe

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

  • Hotel Okura Kobe , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $95/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
  • Hotel Piena Kobe , a top rated 4-star hotel with room rates from $81/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
  • Kobe Portopia Hotel , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $68/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
  • Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $131/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
  • ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $103/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

japan travel guide kobe

You can find more, check rates, availability & book for hotels in this city on Agoda.com or Booking.com .

Kobe travel blog: What and where to eat?

Kobe beef is highly regarded by many diners in Japan and is probably the most widely known dish in Japan. Kobe beef is usually prepared in teppanyaki style, shabu shabu hotpot (thin slices of meat quickly dipped into a fragrant hot pot) or sukiyaki (sliced beef are cooked in a hot pot). One of the best ways to enjoy Kobe beef is teppanyaki, where chefs grilled beef on an iron table in front of diners.

Kobe Beef9

Wakkoqu Restaurant near Shinkobe Station (New Kobe Station)

1 set lunch includes 1 piece of wagyu 150g made into 2 dishes, plus appetizer soup, rice, coffee, ice cream, the total cost is 4.500 yen, totally worth it. The outer edge of the steak is chopped and stir-fried with bean sprouts; The inside part is grilled (teppanyaki) with little salt, black pepper and then cut into bite-sized pieces, not marinated at all. Seeing the skillful-chef prepares this dish also very interesting.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 1-1 Kitanocho, Chuo-Ku Shinkobe Oriental Avenue 3F, Kobe 650-0002 Hyogo Prefecture Hours: 11:45AM–10PM

Another one is Ryu-en in Umie Mosaic area, 2nd floor. This shop specializes in grilled beef (yakiniku). The lunch costs 980 – 1.700 yen / person, while diner costs 3.000 yen / person or more. For buffet (tabehodai) is about 5.000 yen / person. I always have lunch here because there is a lunch set with reasonable prices, but still have the opportunity to enjoy Kobe beef. This restaurant has a nice location, the window facing the port, so it’s good to have lunch while watching the scenery.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 1 Chome-6-1 Higashikawasakicho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0044, Japan Hours: 11AM–10PM

This is one of representative dishes of Japan cuisine and is famous all over the world. You can taste the meat cooked with soy sauce with vegetables, tofu and raw eggs. The dish has a strong flavor but still does not overwhelm the distinct flavor of the beef, making the hotpot even more delicious.

Sukiyaki japanese hotpot japan (1)

Gyudon (Japanese beef rice)

Typical stir-fried rice with belly and brisket beef. This meat is not used to prepare beefsteak, and will be delicious when combined with gyudon rice.

japan travel guide kobe

Ramen noodles

Ramen in recent years has also become very popular dish in Kobe, a land of rich cuisine. There are a variety of ramen noodles in traditional local eateries from beloved pork ribs ramen or sardines, and salted chicken ramen noodles which is trending.

japan travel guide kobe

Fried soba noodle rice

Soba noodles that are fried in a pan mixed with rice make the delicious Sobameshi dish. This Kobe dish may not be very familiar to tourists, but just enjoying it once you can understand why it is so famous in Japan.

japan travel guide kobe

This dish also called Tamagoyaki is a small round dumpling with main ingredient of octopus which raised in Seitouchi waters with fresh and delicious octopus tentacles fried with hot sauce.

japan travel guide kobe

Sake rice wine

Kobe is the most famous Japanese wine-making prefecture, especially Sake rice wine. Visiting Hakutsuku’s art museum near the sea of ​​famous winemaker Hakutsuku, visitors will be able to enjoy all kinds of Japanese favorite wines in which Sake, specialty in Kobe.

At Fukuju brewery in Nada district, you will have the opportunity to taste and purchase hand-crafted wines.

japan travel guide kobe

Western wine

Kobe Western Wine is processed at Kobe Winery Agriculture Park (Address: Takawa-1557-1 Oshibedanicho, Nishi Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-2204, Japan/Hours: 9AM–5PM) . The raw materials for wine processing are grapes grown in the Setouchi waters with a favorable climate and soil. All stages of fermentation and bottling are carried out in low temperature environments. Although with high temperature, the efficiency will be higher, but it will take away the characteristic wine taste. Therefore, the temperature here will be adjusted low enough to produce fine wines.

japan travel guide kobe

Signature Kobe beer with 100% malt ingredients. This special beer is famous for its rich foam and sweet flavor made from the water source of Rokko mountain. Visitors will visit the Rokko beer factory.

japan travel guide kobe

Kobe pastry

Kobe is a place where cultures of the countries of the world have been blended into people’s lives since ancient times. Therefore, there are many delicious cakes that you cannot find elsewhere such as cream cakes, chocolate … All the fine pastries in Kobe are called “Kobe Cakes”. Every time you come to Kobe, you will have the opportunity to enjoy different types of pastries.

japan travel guide kobe

In Kobe, there are fresh fruits such as grapes, pears, peaches, figs. It is one of the rare cities across the country that produces a wide variety of fruits.

Kawarasenbei cakes

It is a specialty cake of Kobe processed in the shape of a tile roof. The cake is made from rice added sugar and egg, so it bringing both Japanese style and Western flavor.

japan travel guide kobe

Kobe travel guide: Shopping

Harborland umie.

Umie is a large shopping mall located in Harborland Kobe – a typical sightseeing spot in the Kobe port area. This place not only has the sea, the city and the people but also has high-end fashion shops, more than 225 stores with fine food, is a place where you can go out all day without getting bored.

japan travel guide kobe

Address: 1 Chome-7-2 Higashikawasakicho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0044, Japan Hours: 10AM–9PM

Kobe guide: Suggested Kobe schedule 2 days

  • Explore the Sannomiya Center Gai shopping center
  • Strolling in Kobe Port
  • Visiting Ikuta Shrine
  • Visit Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
  • Have fun in Chinatown (Nankinmachi)
  • Take the Shin-Kobe cable car
  • Hiking mount Rokko

japan travel guide kobe

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Kobe you can refer to

  • Private Kansai Airport (KIX) Transfers for Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, or Nara
  • Private Kansai International Airport Transfers (KIX) for Osaka, Nara, & Kobe
  • Kyoto Arashiyama, Golden Pavilion Temple, and Kobe MOSAIC Day Tour
  • Todaiji Temple, Kobe Kitano-chō Ijinkan, & Kobe Harborland Day Tour from Osaka
  • Naruto Whirlpool, England Hill, and Kobe Full Day Tour from Osaka
  • Kobe Travel Smart passport
  • Kobe Day Tour with Hotel Pick Up from Osaka
  • Kickstart your trip to Kobe
  • Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens Ticket & Ropeway Ticket
  • Full Day in Kobe with a Local
  • Fascinating Night Cruise Aboard Luminous Kobe 2
  • [KLOOK Exclusive] Kobe Private Day Tour from Osaka
  • Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets & Arima Onsen & Mount Rokko Tour From Osaka
  • Kobe Panoramic Sightseeing Bus Trip (Open-Top)
  • Sake Tasting Tour in Kobe
  • 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
  • 4G WiFi (Japan Pick Up) for Japan
  • JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)

japan travel guide kobe

You can refer more top things to do in Kobe here . We also offer so many services, discounts, Kobe day tour at such affordable prices here .

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Kobe travel guide: Access and attractions

Kobe travel guide: Access and attractions

September 15, 2020

Kobe maritime museum

Kobe is a coastal city of the Kansai region of western Japan, located on the main island of Honshu bordering Osaka Bay. It is one of Japan’s ten largest cities. Enclosed by the sea on one side and a majestic mountain range on the other, it is also considered one of Japan’s most beautiful big cities.

Kobe is rich in history as the first port in Japan to open to foreign trade. This is evident in the western style architecture of some neighborhoods. Recent history is displayed at the Kobe City Museum and the Earthquake Museum.

Kobe is also rich in culturally based activities – a famous Chinatown district, gourmet foods, sake breweries, traditional landscape gardens, and relaxing hot spring spas, to name just a few.

If you are considering a stop in Kobe during your next vacation in Japan, the first question you may ask is: How do you get there? Doing so is easy using the Japan Rail Pass ! Kobe is but a short Shinkansen ride away from several of Japan’s other major cities, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.  

Tokyo to Kobe  

When traveling from Tokyo,  use your Japan Rail Pass to board the Hikari trains on the JR Tokaido Shinkansen / Sanyo Shinkansen Line .

Traveling from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station to Shin-Kobe Station by Hikari Shinkansen takes approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes , with stops in Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka.

Osaka to Kobe  

You have two options when traveling from Osaka to Kobe using the JR Pass . You may take the Sanyo Shinkansen from Shin-Osaka Station to Shin-Kobe Station. This trip lasts approximately 15 minutes .

Alternatively, you may take a JR Special Rapid Train from Osaka Station to the Kobe Sannomiya Station , with a trip duration of around 20 minutes .

Kyoto to Kobe  

Two options are also available from JR stations involving train travel from Kyoto to Kobe. You may take the direct Hikari Shinkansen from Kyoto Station to Shin-Kobe Station. One Hikari train departs each hour, and the trip lasts approximately 30 minutes .

Or, you may take a JR Special Rapid Train on the JR Tokaido Line from Kyoto Station to Sannomiya Station. To avoid confusion, keep in mind that this line is sometimes called the Kobe Line or Kyoto Line . This trip lasts around 5 0 minutes .

So you’ve used your JR Pass to get to Kobe; you can use your pass to travel around the city as well. Kobe is home to three JR Stations – Shin-Kobe Station, Kobe Station, and Sannomiya Station.

Shin-Kobe Station

If traveling to Kobe via Shinkansen bullet train, you will arrive at Shin-Kobe Station.

This station is located north of the city center, some distance from most attractions.

The station is served by:

  • Sanyo Shinkansen
  • Kobe Municipal Subway (Seishin-Yamate Line)
  • Hokushin Kyuko Electric Railway (Hokushin Line)

If you need to transfer to other stations from Shin-Kobe, you will need to take the Seishin-Yamate Line to Sannomiya Station.

Kobe Sannomiya Station

Sannomiya Station is the main railway terminal of Kobe, conveniently located in the heart of Kobe.

From Sannomiya, you can access not only JR lines such as the Tokaido Line to Osaka Station and Kyoto Station, but also local lines (Hankyu, Kobe Municipal Subway) to nearby attractions.

To connect to the Sanyo Shinkansen line, you must travel to Shin-Kobe station.

Kobe Station

This one is the end of the Tokaido and Sanyo lines, being a smaller one and usually less convenient than Sannomiya station.

From here, you can travel to Osaka and Himeji  as well as other, smaller cities in the Kansai region.

Things to do in Kobe  

Are you wondering what to do in Kobe during your next Japanese vacation? From Sannomiya Station, you can take the private Hanshin Line to Koshien Stadium to see the Hanshin Tigers play baseball .

After taking in a game, a taste of Kobe beef is an experience not to be missed . Kobe beef is a world-famous delicacy, delicately marbled steak that comes from specially bred wagyu cattle raised and prepared in the Hyogo Prefecture. It is often prepared in the style of shabu-shabu – thinly sliced and boiled in broth – or sukiyaki , simmered in a hot pot.

Kobe Animal Kingdom

After a long day of travels, perhaps you’d like to unwind in an onsen , or natural therapeutic hot spring. The Arima Onsen at the base of Mount Rokko is within the Kobe city limits, making it an excellent day trip. From either Shin-Kobe Station or Sannomiya Station, take a subway to Tanigami Station. From there, travel to the Arima Onsen Station. The trip takes less than an hour.

Kobe is at times overlooked by international travelers, veiled by the shadows of larger cities and better-known tourist attractions. Your days in Kobe, however, will not be regretted. This unique city will be a memorable part of your next vacation.

Related posts

Related tours & activities.

We are travelling to Japan for Rugby world cup, 1st game for us is in Misaki stadium Kobe at 19:15 at night on Ocotber 3rd. I had thought about flying into Osaka on 1st October then travelling to the stadium by train on 3rd but concerned at what time train returns to Osaka that evening. Can you provide me with a time table for trains.

Hi David! We recommend youto check Hyperdia , which offers detailed timetables, platform information, trip duration and exact distance, which will help you greatly in organizing your trips in Japan. Happy travels!

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Kobe itinerary Travel Guide Blog

Day Trip to Kobe itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on February 18th, 2024

Planning a trip to Kobe and looking for inspiration on what are the best things to do in Kobe? To help you make the most of your time, follow this 1-day Kobe itinerary to immerse yourself in what this city has to offer. Here’s the detailed Kobe Travel Guide blog!

Kobe (神戸, Kōbe) is an international port city on Osaka Bay. It has been an important place for trade since Japan reopened the port in 1868 after isolation for over 200 years. Because of its history, the city has a unique atmosphere with Western and Asia cultures.

Kobe is a good city to explore with many interesting to do and see. The city is filled with a variety of shopping, dining, and sightseeing attractions. It is also well-known for its signature marbled Kobe beef. Plus, the location is ideal, not too far from Osaka and Kyoto, and with easy access to public transport. All this makes Kobe a popular day trip destination when visiting the Kansai region.

If you’re visiting Kobe for the first time , then I hope this Kobe travel guide helps you to plan on the Kobe itinerary for 1 day or 2-days. We will share all the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, what to eat, hotel recommendations, and other useful Kobe travels information and tips.

Table of Contents

Getting To Kobe

Kobe is well-connected with major cities in Japan. It is easy to plan for a day trip to Kobe from Osaka, Kyoto, and other cities in Kansai. It takes only 30 minutes to get there from Osaka by train. Besides, frequent Shinkansen travels between Tokyo and Kobe by the JR Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen under three hours of journey.

Take note that Kobe’s busiest railway station is not Kobe Station but Sannomiya Station in the downtown area at the city center. We recommended starting your Kobe itinerary at this central station.

Getting to Kobe :

  • Tokyo to Kobe: Shinkansen (about 3 hours)
  • Osaka to Kobe: Shinkansen (15 minutes, ¥2,860), JR train (20 minutes, ¥410), Hanshin Train (32 minutes, ¥410), Hankyu Train (25 minutes, ¥320).
  • Kyoto to Kobe: Shinkansen (30 minutes, ¥2,860), JR train (50 minutes, ¥1,110), Hankyu Train (60 minutes, ¥630).

Continue read for more detail and transport pass : How To Get To Kobe: Access + Transport Pass

Pro Tips : If you have the Japan Rail Pass , the journey to Kobe by Shinkansen and JR Train is completely covered.

Getting Around in Kobe

Getting Around in Kobe

When you are in the city centre, getting around in Kobe is pretty easy. Most of the attractions in Kobe are clustered in the central part of town and walkable. Travelers can cover many of the attractions on foot. Alternatively, buses, trains, and taxis will allow you to cover more attractions quickly and easily.

Kobe also offers various transport passes for getting around in the city:

  • Kobe Meguri 1-Day Coupon at ¥950 – Unlimited rides on the subways, non-JR trains such as the Hanshin or Hankyu lines, and certain buses around Kobe.
  • City Loop Day Pass at ¥680 – Tourist-oriented loop bus with hop-on and hop-off which runs on a loop around the city’s major tourist attractions, including Kitano-cho, Meriken Park, Chinatown, and Harbourland. A single ride costs ¥260.

Where To Stay

Most of the attractions in Kobe can be visited within one day. So it is not necessary to stay in Kobe. However, if you want to have a more relaxing visit, do hiking around Mount Rokko, or visit Arima onsen town, staying one night in Kobe is also highly encourage.

The downtown area is a great place to stay in Kobe if you are visiting the city area. It’s conveniently located with plenty of hotels, shops, restaurants, bars, and convenience stores. Here is our recommendation for where to stay in Kobe downtown area:

  • Luxury : Hotel Okura Kobe is a popular Japanese hotel with modern amenities. It is located on the waterfront with a view of the harbor or Rokko mountain at Harbour district. Everything is exceptional.
  • High-Range : Daiwa Roynet Hotel Kobe Sannomiya Chuo Dori is conveniently located for exploring the city with many shops and restaurants nearby. Spacious room and spotless.
  • Mid-Range : Brenza Hotel has everything for a comfortable stay in Sannomiya area. The location is superb and perfect for walking around the city to explore. Good value for money.

While Arima Onsen is another popular pick when choosing where to stay in Kobe. It is a lovely area and your stay is feature with natural hot spring bath at a traditional Japanese ryokan.

For more accommodation option, continue read on: Where To Stay in Kobe .

Things To Do in Kobe Itinerary

Things To Do in Kobe itinerary

If you only have 1 day in Kobe and you want to make the most of your visit, I recommend the following Kobe itinerary with all the best things to do in 1-Day:

  • Start the Kobe itinerary at Sannomiya-Motomachi Area.
  • Strolling around Kitanocho District.
  • Visit the Kobe Kitano Ijinkan.
  • Taste the Kobe beef.
  • Leisure walk in Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street.
  • Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown).
  • Kobe Port Tower.
  • Night view on Kobe Harborland.

More times? You may consider to visit the Arima Onsen or Himeji Castle.

Tour Recommended : To fully enjoy the must-visit spots in Kobe and don’t miss out on interesting things along the way, we recommend you to take this private tour when you visiting here.

Sannomiya-Motomachi Area

First of all, start your Kobe itinerary at Sannomiya-Motomachi area . It is an is an ideal starting point for sightseeing around Kobe after you getting from other cities.

From Sannomiya Station, follow the north side will lead you towards the Kitano area with mountains view. While the south side will show you the beauty of the sea and shopping street in Kobe. We recommended proceed to Kitano-cho for the Kobe trip.

Kitanocho District

Kobe Travel Guide - Kobe Kitano Ijinkan

Next, proceed with your Kobe itinerary by strolling around the Kitano-Cho district at the foot of the Rokko mountain range.

Known as the mountainside of Kobe, Kitano-Cho (北野町, Kitanochō) is the former residential area for foreign merchants and diplomats during the late 19th century. Many Western-style houses called Ijinkan are built on the slope along the hilly street. Most of them are well-preserved and several of these former residences are open to the public as museums with entry charges to get in.

Among all, the Weathercock House, Uroko House, and Uroko Museum are the most popular options. The Kitano Tenman shrine is also located at the area.

The Kobe Kitano Ijinkan offers a nice walk with a good mix of different country’s architecture. The atmosphere is filled with a nostalgic atmosphere and serenity. Enjoy the historical architecture or plan to visit one of the former houses.

Kobe Kitano Ijinkan (神戸北野異人館) Address: Yamamotodori, Chuo Ward, Kobe. Getting there: Located north of the Sannomiya-Motomachi Station. 10 to 15-minutes of walking distance. Website: https://www.kobeijinkan.com/en/

Starbucks at Kobe

Starbucks in Kitano-Cho

If you don’t feel like paying the entrance fees for any of these places, the Kitano area has many cafes, restaurants, high-end fashion stores, and boutiques to enjoy the colonial atmosphere.

Drop by the Starbucks in Kitano-Cho and grab a cup of coffee. The Starbucks Cafe is housed in a converted former heritage house. Worth a drop-in.

Taste the Kobe Beef

Kobe itinerary - Taste on Kobe Beef

One of the must-do’s when visiting Kobe is to taste the world-famous best wagyu beef – Kobe beef . The exceptionally tender, well-marbled beef is a type of Wagyu beef from the Tajima strain of Japanese Black cattle. The cattle must be born, fed, reared, and processed in the Hyogo prefecture of Japan.

Try the Kobe beef as a simple steak, teppanyaki-style, sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, or as part of a Korean-style barbecue.

Best place to eat Kobe Beef - Steakland with Teppanyaki-style

In Kobe, there are many restaurants in the city that serve delicious Kobe beef.

Steakland is a popular teppanyaki restaurant where you can select various types of Kobe beef at a decent price. A slight upgrade to taste the Kobe beef is the Kobe Steak Restaurant Mouriya Honten . It is a well-established teppanyaki steakhouse that’s been in business for over 130 years.

Alternatively, Wakkoqu is also a great teppanyaki restaurant for trying Kobe beef.

Steakland Kobe

Where to eat Kobe Beef - Steakland Kobe

We decided to try out the Kobe beef at Steakland Kobe. You will be seated around a large U-shaped teppanyaki table in the restaurant. The chef will prepare and cook the steaks on the teppanyaki grill right in front of you.

Steakland Kobe offers a wide range of Wagyu options for selection. A set meal comes includes with bean sprouts, miso soup, a salad, garlic chips, and rice.

Kobe Beef Set Meal at Steakland Kobe

The beef was melt-in-your-mouth, juicy, and flavourful. It was absolutely succulent beyond my imagination. The garlic chips were amazing too. A unique Japanese Kobe beef experience and we enjoy the meal.

Pro Tips : It is cheaper to have a lunch set rather than a dinner set.

Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown)

Nankinmachi Kobe Chinatown

Kobe Chinatown (also known as Nankinmachi, 南京町) is the central focus of Kansai’s Chinese community. It is a popular place for shopping and dining among locals and tourists. The area was developed by Chinese merchants in the late 1860s when Japan is opened for trade.

Similar to other Chinatowns, Nankinmachi has many Chinese restaurants and street food stalls to choose from. One of the best food places when visiting Kobe. Popular items such as steamed buns (manju), ramen, gyoza, and all kinds of tasty Chinese food at affordable prices.

Nankinmachi / Kobe Chinatown (南京町) Address: 1 Chome-3-18 Sakaemachidori, Chuo Ward, Kobe. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the east exit of Motomachi Station.

Leisure Walk in Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street

Adjacent to the Nankinmachi is the Motomachi Shopping street. It is a shopping street with long covered pedestrian roads that are full of shops, restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.

Just like the Japanese shopping street, you can find almost everything along the street. Spend some time leisurely exploring and shopping. There are many pharmacies and gift shops where tourists can buy souvenirs back home.

Kobe Harborland

Night View at Kobe Harborland

Lastly, head to Kobe Harborland , a vibrant shopping and entertainment district in the city. It is one of Kobe’s major tourist attractions and Kobe Port Tower is part of the skyline.

The harbor and the surrounding architecture are very interesting. The night view at this location is beautiful, especially when the whole area is illuminated. Stroll along the waterfront with a view of the gorgeous port tower in the background.

There are lots of places to sit and enjoy a coffee and the views or places to grab a bite while out walking around. A lovely place to hang out, especially at night.

Kobe Harborland Address: 1 Chome Higashikawasakicho, Chuo Ward, Kobe. Getting there: A 20 minute walk from Sannomiya Station.

Kobe Port Tower

Kobe Tavel Guide - Kobe Port Tower

Standing 108m (354 ft) tall, Kobe Port Tower is a landmark and famous port icon of Kobe. The shape of the Kobe Port Tower resembles the shape of a tsuzumi, a traditional Japanese percussion with a pipe-shaped outer frame. It has over 7,000 LED lights mounted and it is best viewed at night when all the LED lights are lit up.

Travelers also can get up and enjoy the 360-degree city view from the observatory. The tower overlooks the beautiful city of Kobe from 5 observation floors and 3 specialty floors. A ticket to Kobe Port Tower costs ¥700 or it can be visited with a combination ticket with Kobe Maritime Museum for ¥1,300.

Although we didn’t get up, the tower was still very impressive from a distance, standing out bright red with its unique shape.

More Times in Kobe?

One day or half day is good enough to see the city’s attraction followed above Kobe itinerary. But if you’re having more time and planning to visit the natural sights, here is our recommendation:

Arima Onsen (有馬温泉) – Surrounded by gorgeous mountains, Arima Onsen is an ancient hot spring resort town founded over 1000 years ago. It’s one of the three oldest hot springs in Japan and is well-known for its centuries-old bathhouses and natural hot spring. Many traditional ryokans are offering a unique Japanese’stay here. There are also private ryokan that offers bath access with minor charges during the day even if you are a non-staying guest. The  Kin no Yu with its “Kinsen” golden hot spring is the most popular place to soak in its iron-rich brown spring waters. A popular day trip or weekend gateway even for locals.

Getting there: About half an hour bus from Kobe.

Himeji Castle (姫路城, Himejijō) is another popular attraction that is best coupled together with a Kobe itinerary. Along with Matsumoto Castle and Kumamoto Castle, Himeji Castle is considered one of Japan’s three premier castles. It is known as White Heron Castle (Shirasagijo) due to its elegant, white appearance. A world heritage site.

Getting there: JR train from Kobe to Himeji takes only 37 minutes at ¥990.

How Many Days for Kobe?

With proper planning, you can see most of Kobe’s highlights in one day on a day trip to Kobe. But it is also no harm in staying longer in Kobe and immersing yourself in what this city has to offer!

Most travelers will couple up the day trip with Himeji and Kobe as an excursion from Osaka or Kyoto. You may consider staying one night at a ryokan in Arima Onsen to enjoy the hot spring. Arima Onsen is only about 30 minutes bus ride from Kobe downtown.

Final Tips for Kobe Trip

Last but not least, here are some handy Kobe travel tips for your trip:

Definitely worth it. Kobe is a great place when visiting the Kansai region. The city is filled with a variety of shopping, dining, and sightseeing attractions. The Kobe beef is a must-try when visiting Kobe!

You can easily visit Kobe on a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto. The journey is only around an hour or less and it’s totally worth the journey.

If you’re only planning to be in Kobe for a day trip, plan your Kobe itinerary on the attractions in the city center which include Kitano Ijinkan, Motomachi, Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown), and Kobe Harborland. You can also taste the world-famous Kobe beef during your trip to Kobe!

Overview: A Trip to Kobe

All in all, we hope your enjoy this Kobe itinerary. The city is impressive and totally different vibe from nearby Osaka or Kyoto. For me, Kobe is one of the best place to go and relax your time with a short visit. You can spend 3 to 4 hours walking around and enjoy the unique atmosphere in the city.

Lastly, traveling to Kobe and other interesting places in the Kansai region? If you are interested, please read about our visit to Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Uji, and Kobe.

Related Kobe travel Stories :

  • Where To Stay in Kobe: Best Areas and Hotels
  • How To Get To Kobe: Access + Transport Pass

Kyoto and Osaka Travel Stories : 

  • 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto
  • Where to Stay in Kyoto
  • Things to do in Osaka: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog

Osaka Amazing Pass Itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog

  • Where to Stay in Osaka: Namba or Umeda

Best Day trip from Kyoto or Osaka:

  • Nara Itinerary: Perfect Day Trip From Osaka & Kyoto
  • Uji Itinerary: Best Day Trip From Kyoto

How to travel to Osaka, Kyoto & Nara :

  • The Best Kansai Train Pass: Budget Guide & Transport Tips
  • Kansai Airport to Osaka with Cheapest Transportation
  • How To Get To Kyoto From Kansai Airport, Osaka & Tokyo
  • From Tokyo To Kyoto: Cheapest Or Fastest?

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  • Transportation

Kobe Port Terminal Guide

One of the most popular cruise ship ports in Japan

Luca De Pasquale

Kobe Port Terminal (神戸ポートターミナル) is the main cruise ship port for central Japan, located in the heart of Kobe, in Hyogo Prefecture. The Kansai region of Japan is home to some of the country's most popular tourist spots, including Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe. Kobe is today considered one of the most cosmopolitan Japanese cities. It was one of the first ports to be opened for trade back in 1868, and it has one of the most authentic western-style districts in Kitano, located to the north of the main station Sannomiya.

Kobe is very well connected to the neighboring cities of Osaka, Himeji, Kyoto, and Nara. The closest major airports are Kansai Airport (KIX), Osaka International airport Itami (ITM) and Kobe Airport (UKB).

What to expect at Kobe Port

Tourist information desk.

This English-speaking desk is ideally located by the main entrance and provides assistance to guests arriving and leaving at the Kobe Port Terminal, maps and brochures for main destinations in the Kansai region and Kobe are also available. Located at the 2F.

Money Exchange desk

This desk is located at the 2F and is able to change from and into Japanese Yen (JPY).

Sagawa luggage delivery service

This reliable delivery service allows to send your luggage anywhere in Japan within a minimum amount of time. Located at the 1F right after the luggage collection point.

A free Wi-FI service is available at the port.

Which major cruise operators call at Kobe Port?

Nearby attractions to kobe port terminal.

This is a list of famous spots in Kobe, which can be easily accessed on foot, public transport or short taxi ride from the port, ideal for visitors with limited time:

Kobe Motomachi Area

Known among locals as “The Long Long Street” this shopping arcade goes for approximately 1.2 km, counting over 300 stores, many of these stores have been open for over 100 years and offer the best range of goods that can be found in Kobe.

Night-time Views of Kobe Motomachi

Night-time Views of Kobe Motomachi

Sandwiched between the Chinatown district Nankinmachi and Kyu-kyoruchi, a foreign settlement in the 19th century, Motomachi Kobe..

A beautiful European town within Kobe’s north hillside, Kitano developed as a living space for the wealthy merchants that flocked into Kobe once the port opened in 1868, many historical homes such as the Italian House and the former residence for the Consul – General of the United States of America are on display in this very charming and romantic part of Kobe.

Kobe Kitano Christmas Street

Kobe Kitano Christmas Street

With over 200 Western style houses, Kitano Ijinkan serves as host to the event "Kobe Kitano Christmas Street", an illumination spot..

The area facing the Port of Kobe hosts numerous landmarks, the west area is famous for the “Kobe Harbourland”, a leisure complex with shops, cinemas and more. The est side includes the Kobe Maritime Museum and the Kawasaki World, the Kansai Earthquake memorial and the BE KOBE street art are also found here.

A Day in Kobe

A Day in Kobe

A day in Kobe: Exploring one of Japan's most beautiful cities!

Mount Rokko & Arima Onsen

Kobe hills are famous for their lush vegetation and heir natural beauty, Mount Rokko is the ideal city escape at only few minutes from the center of Kobe, alongside with nature, visitors are also attracted by one of the oldest hot spring resort areas in Japan, the Arima Hot Spring is famous for the quality of its water, containing several mineral properties that are considered very healthy for the body & soul. This area can also be reached by the Kobe-Mt. Rokko ropeway.

Trekking Mt Rokko

Trekking Mt Rokko

Just less than an hour from central Osaka, Mt Rokko makes for an easy day trip away from the big bustling cities of Kobe and Osaka...

Attractions further afield

Here we outline the points of interest further afield from Kobe Port Terminal, accessible in about 1 hour by train or card.

The third largest city in Japan famous for the Namba shopping district, the picturesque Osaka castle and some of Japan top sights like the Universal Studios Japan and the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shinto Shrine. Osaka is also an ideal departure point for day trips to the former capitals of ancient Japan Nara and Kyoto, therefore it can be an ideal stopover at the beginning and the end of your cruise. Osaka can be accessed from the Kobe Port Terminal by car in approximately 30 minutes or by train from the Sannomiya Station (JR special rapid, 21 minutes) or shinkansen train (Sanyo Shinkansen, 20 minutes) from Shin-Kobe station.

Universal Studios Japan in Osaka

Universal Studios Japan in Osaka

Roller coaster enthusiast or not, Universal Studios Japan (USJ) in Osaka may just be the perfect getaway for you, your family,..

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine

The Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine is one of Japan's oldest shrines, being the most famous of all Sumiyoshi Shrines. It boasts a unique..

Kyoto is the heart of traditional Japan, where the authentic and untouched soul of this country’s long history can still be perceived by strolling in the elegant Gion Geisha District, or by visiting one of the 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and about 20% of Japan's National Treasures and 14% of Important Cultural Properties exist in the city proper. Kyoto can be accessed by train (JR Special Rapid, 52 minutes) from Kobe Sannomiya or shinkansen train (Sanyo Shinkansen, 30 minutes) from Shin-Kobe station, or by car (60 minutes approximately).

Exploring Gion

Exploring Gion

Gion area in Kyoto has many interesting things to delight a sightseer, like the cute old post office, rickshaws, the giant turnip,..

East of Osaka and South of Tokyo lies Nara, another of Japan ancient cities, in Nara visitors can admire the largest wooden structure in the world, the Todaiji Buddhist Temple, built to protect the Daibutsu, of the oldest and largest bronze statues of Buddha in the world. Nara is also world famous thanks to the very unique features of being home to a population of wild deers that live within the city center, these deers are considered sacred as ambassadors of a local enshrined Shinto deity. Nara can be accessed by train (JR Rapid Service, 55 minutes) from Sannomiya Station or by car (60 minutes approximately).

The Great Todaiji Temple

The Great Todaiji Temple

Todaiji Temple is Nara’s most famous temple that is easily accessed through Nara Park.

Second largest city in the Hyogo prefecture (first one is Kobe), Himeji is the easiest city to reach besides Osaka, which is located at the opposite side, the iconic “white heron” castle of Himeji is the prime example of Japanese feudal defensive architecture and can be reached on foot or public transport from the Himeji Station. Himeji can be accessed by train (JR Special Rapid, 40 minutes) from Sannomiya Station or shinkansen train (Sanyo Shinkansen, 20 minutes) from Shin-Kobe station, or by car (45 minutes approximately).

Come for the Castle, Stay for the Sake: Himeji

Come for the Castle, Stay for the Sake: Himeji

Himeji Castle is a both a national treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage site, and considered one of the best examples of Japanese..

Getting there

How to move around kobe port terminal.

A free shuttle bus runs continuously from the terminal to the entrance of Nankinmachi Chinatown and Motomachi Shopping street, there is also a free shuttle bus directed to Shin-Kobe station, the Port Liner Monorail service also stops at the Port Terminal.

How to get to Sannomiya central station or Kobe airport

The Port Liner Monorail service located few minutes away from the Kobe Port Terminal reach Sannomiya central station in 11 minutes.

How to get to Itami Airport

First, take the monorail Port Liner to Sannomiya Station (7 minutes), the airport can be reached by limousine airport shuttle bus (40 minutes approximately).

How to get to Kansai Airport

Kansai international airport is located south of Osaka, from Kobe, the easiest and most convenient way to get there is by rapid ferry from the Kobe Airport, from the Port Terminal the Port Liner monorail takes 11 minutes to reach the Kobe Airport station, from there, ferries to the Kansai airport depart hourly and take 30 minutes to reach destination.

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By Luca De Pasquale

Community writer

View of the port area

Information

4-5 Shinkōchō, Chūō-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0041 ( Directions )

078-331-0229

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Kobe - Japan Travel Guide - Japanspecialist

Attractive international city famous for its tender steaks

Ikuta Shrine

Ikuta Shrine

Hyogo Daibutsu, The Great Buddha at Nofukuji Temple

Hyogo Daibutsu, The Great Buddha at Nofukuji Temple

Kobe’s scenic waterfront

Kobe’s scenic waterfront

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge at sunset

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge at sunset

About Kobe Kobe is a large port city, just a 30 minutes ride from Kyoto on the bullet train. It is beautifully located with the Seto Inland Sea to the south and steep mountains to the north. The city has a long international history and is especially famous for its architecture, Chinatown and of course the world's most delicious beef.

Mouth-meltingly delicious steaks  Kobe was one of the first Japanese cities to trade abroad, and the international background is still seen everywhere. Most exciting is the city's big Chinatown, which is full of delicious food and brightly coloured shops. Another attraction is the beautiful waterfront, especially breath-taking after dark as the city lights up. The centre of the city is known for its nightlife and of course, the city is known for Kobe beef, the world's most expensive meat. The meat has a unique fat marbling that simply makes it melt on the tongue. Note that Japan does not export the meat, so this is a unique chance to try 'the real deal'. The meat comes in categories 1-5 and A-C. 1-5 marks the fat marbling, with 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest. A-C is the cut, where A is the normal and C the best. In other words, a piece graded C5 is the best of the best! There are many Kobe beef restaurants around Sannomiya Station that are worth a try. The town also has several well-known sake distilleries and many delicious Western bakeries.

Other attractions in Kobe The Earthquake Memorial Museum shows the tragedy of the great earthquake in 1995 in an engaging and interactive way. Kitano-cho is a large area containing old residences for foreign traders and diplomats, which today are restored and open as museums. Kobe's backyard is the dramatic Rokko mountain range. Take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Rokko to enjoy the view of Kobe, and on clear days Osaka and the Inland Sea. If you have the time, take a day trip with either the cable car or the mountain train to Arima Onsen, a nice hot spring area. Buy a day pass for the hot springs and try as many baths as you want.

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    Asia » Japan » 18 Things To Do In Kobe, Japan - The Ultimate Kobe Travel Guide ... Top Things To Do In Kobe - The Ultimate Kobe Travel Guide Cruise Around Kobe At Sunset . One of the highlights of my trip to Kobe was the Luminous 2 sunset cruise. Setting off late afternoon, we were treated to one of the most stunning sunsets I've seen ...

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    Community writer. Kobe Port Terminal (神戸ポートターミナル) is the main cruise ship port for central Japan, located in the heart of Kobe, in Hyogo Prefecture. The Kansai region of Japan is home to some of the country's most popular tourist spots, including Osaka, Kyoto, Nara and Kobe. Kobe is today considered one of the most ...

  22. Kobe

    Kobe - Japan Travel Guide - Japanspecialist. Kobe. Attractive international city famous for its tender steaks. About Kobe Kobe is a large port city, just a 30 minutes ride from Kyoto on the bullet train. It is beautifully located with the Seto Inland Sea to the south and steep mountains to the north. The city has a long international history ...

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