Nestled between the majestic Rokko Mountains and the sparkling waters of Osaka Bay, Kobe is one of Japan’s most charming and stylish port cities. Known worldwide for its melt-in-your-mouth Kobe beef, vibrant cultural districts, scenic harbor views, and relaxing hot springs, Kobe offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity. Whether you’re here for a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto, or planning a longer stay, the city’s unique blend of history, food culture, and natural beauty makes it a destination worth exploring in depth.
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Located on the west coast of Japan, Kobe has long been a unique cultural symbol of the “land of the rising sun”. With the blend of Japanese traditions and cultural influences from Western countries, Kobe has a unique blend, attracting tourists from all over the world.
In this ultimate Kobe travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know — how to get to Kobe, top attractions, must-visit neighborhoods, hidden gems, things to do, what to eat, and travel tips — so you can experience the very best of this picturesque city.
Let’s learn about this beautiful land with us and equip yourself with more useful travel experiences!
Kobe Travel Guide: Where is Kobe in Japan?
Kobe, one of the most livable cities in Japan, is located in the west of the Kansai region, and is the connecting point between Osaka Bay and the Rokko Mountains. With the unique cultural exchange between East and West, Kobe has become an attractive destination, attracting tourists from all over the world.
Kobe City is located in Hyogo Prefecture, with a large area with 9 administrative districts: Chuo, Tarumi, Nishi, Kita, Suma, Nagata, Hyogo, Nada, and Higashi Nada. Therefore, visitors to Kobe Japan can admire many diverse landscapes, and enjoy the rich cuisine of different districts. Traditional temples, modern buildings, and famous dishes such as Kobe beef and sake are waiting for visitors to enjoy.
How to Get to Kobe from Tokyo or Osaka
From Tokyo and Osaka, visitors have many options for transportation to get to Kobe. You can refer to the information below compiled by Living Nomads!
Travel by Plane
Himeji Castle & Arima Onsen & Mt. Rokko Day Tour from Osaka
This option is usually for visitors departing from Tokyo. From Haneda Airport (Tokyo), you can take a flight to Kobe Airport (Kobe), or Kansai Airport (Osaka). From Kobe Airport, you travel 10km to the city center, and from Osaka Airport, you need to travel another 70km to the center of Kobe.
Travel by Train
Tokyo’s subway system is very developed, helping you move quickly at a reasonable cost. You can choose Japan Railways or Shinkansen express train. If you travel by Japan Railways, your stop will be Sannomiya Station, and if you travel by express train, your stop will be Shin-Kobe Station. The fare for each trip ranges from 310 yen to 600 yen depending on the distance and type of train.
Travel by Bus
Limousine Bus Kansai Airport to Osaka and Kansai Area
In addition to trains, the express bus system traveling between cities in Japan is also very diverse. Bus fares from Tokyo to Kobe range from 4,000 yen to 9,000 yen. From Osaka to Kobe, bus fares range from 320 yen to 2,800 yen. Once in Kobe, visitors can visit the whole city by many different means of transport such as: bus, taxi, or rent a private car at Klook.
When is the best time to visit Kobe?
Kobe is a charming tourist destination not only with its cultural exchange, but also with its beautiful natural scenery. Each season of the year has its own beauty and brings visitors interesting experiences.
Spring (from March to May) when cherry blossoms bloom is the most romantic moment. The city is covered in pink from each layer of petals, creating a charming, picturesque landscape. Places such as Oji Zoo, Kobe Sports Park, Sumaura Park, Sumadera Temple are where visitors can see cherry blossoms in full bloom and enjoy the fresh air of spring.
Autumn (from September to November) is also an interesting time to travel to Kobe. At this time, the natural landscape puts on a new coat, bringing a romantic and charming autumn color. Visitors can enjoy the cool air, and admire the stunning red maple forests here. Kobe Botanical Garden, Kobe City Flower Garden and Nunobiki Herb Garden are attractive places for you to experience Japanese autumn.
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens Ticket & Ropeway Ticket
You should note that summer (from June to August) is the rainy season in Kobe. Visitors coming here should check the weather forecast, and prepare rain gear such as umbrellas and raincoats if they plan to participate in outdoor activities.
Famous Tourist Destinations You Must Visit in Kobe
Nankinmachi Chinatown – Chinatown
Nankinmachi Chinatown is located in the center of Kobe city and is the oldest Chinatown in Japan. With classical architecture and Chinese-style space, this neighborhood offers visitors a unique Asian space. Visitors can stroll through the small streets, explore the eateries, flea markets and shops selling traditional Chinese goods. Not only experiencing Chinese culture and cuisine, Nankinmachi also attracts visitors with traditional festivals held especially during major Chinese holidays.
Mt Fuji Day Tour with A5 Beef lunch option (from Tokyo)
Ikuta Jinja Shrine
Ikuta Jinja is one of the oldest shrines in Japan, dating back thousands of years. The shrine is built in traditional architecture, with flagpoles, stone stairs and beautiful wooden towers. In the shrine grounds, there are many ancient trees and beautiful koi ponds, creating a peaceful and sacred space.
Ikuta Jinja Shrine is a destination for couples to pray for good luck and lasting love. Visitors can buy a Hankyu Pass from Klook to travel to the shrine from the city center
Kobe Port Tower
Kobe Port Tower is a symbol of this coastal city with a height of 108 meters. Located at the port with a beautiful view of Osaka Bay and Mount Rokko, the port tower is an ideal place for sightseeing and taking pictures. In particular, in the evening, the port tower is lit up by thousands of colorful LED lights, creating a romantic and beautiful scene.
Kobe City, Cruise Stop-over: Explore the City from Kobe Port
Visitors can use the elevator to the top of the tower to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and a more romantic sunset. Book a city tour from Kobe Port for an interesting experience with Klook.
Mount Rokko North of the City
Mount Rokko is a must-see destination in Kobe, located in the north of the city. The special feature of Mount Rokko is the incredibly beautiful scenery when from the top of the mountain, visitors can see the entire city of Kobe and the vast Osaka Bay.
Kobe Port Ferris Wheel Hot Spring Night View Day Tour
Visitors can easily reach the top of the mountain by cable car or bus. On the mountain, there are many amusement parks and sightseeing spots such as Rokko Garden Terrace, Rokko International Music Museum, green grasslands, Rokko-Shidare Observatory, Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, etc.
Sake Brewery
Kobe is famous for its traditional sake brewing culture and visitors can learn about the sake brewing process at famous breweries in the city. At the breweries, visitors will be instructed on how to make sake from delicious rice, how to brew and distill sake.
Kobe Highlights Day Tour with Sake Tasting
In addition, visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy unique and delicious sake that is only available in Kobe. In particular, Hakutsuru Sake Brewery is a factory over 300 years old that allows you to experience the quintessential taste of sake.
Arima Onsen Hot Spring Park
Arima Onsen is one of the most famous and ancient hot spring areas in Japan. Not far from downtown Kobe, this hot spring park is an ideal destination for visitors to relax and enjoy the peaceful natural space. With many natural hot spring pools and therapeutic spas, visitors can enjoy a relaxing and refreshing feeling after a long day of exploring the city.
Kobe Outlet Hot Springs Night View Tour
Kobe’s Best Shopping Street – Sannomiya/Motomachi
Sannomiya and Motomachi are two bustling and famous shopping areas in Kobe. Visitors can stroll through fashion stores, boutiques, specialty shops and high-end shopping centers. This is a great place to shop for fashion, jewelry, souvenirs and unique Kobe specialties.
Kobe Earthquake Museum
The Kobe Earthquake Museum is a place where visitors can learn about the experiences and consequences of historical earthquakes. The museum displays many artifacts and images of the terrible earthquakes that Kobe has suffered, as well as simulated earthquake prevention and response measures. Visitors can better understand the harshness of nature and the patience and perseverance of local people in dealing with natural disasters.
The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Museum
Kobe Animal Kingdom
Kobe Animal Kingdom is a large natural park with a variety of animals and plants. Visitors can see rare and special animals such as tigers, cats, birds, capybaras, alpacas, red pandas, etc.
Kobe Harborland 24 HR Onsen Manyo Club Hot Spring Experience in Kobe
In addition to observing animals, visitors also have the opportunity to feed the animals, admire flowers, and take photos in the park. Kobe Animal Kingdom offers visitors an experience close to nature and wild creatures in their natural environment.
Must-Try Dishes in Kobe, Japan
Kobe beef: This is a delicacy from Kobe, Japan, a symbol of culinary perfection. Characterized by thin marbling that separates the red meat, Kobe beef melts in your mouth, offering a wonderful, smooth and delicious flavor. Enjoy Kobe’s excellent beef with a Dining Voucher at Kobe Beef Kisshokichi Honten!
Kobe Beef Kisshoukichi honten in Kobe – Kobe Beef Wagyu Dishes
Ramen: Kobe is an ideal destination for ramen lovers. Ramen in Kobe often has its own unique flavor, highlighted by excellent broth, delicious soft meat, soft-boiled eggs and green vegetables. This dish is sure to captivate diners from far away.
Soba: With a light and attractive flavor, soba is a traditional dish loved in Kobe. Enjoying soba in Kobe offers a wonderful experience with the natural flavor of buckwheat flour combined with the characteristic flavor of soy sauce, chicken or shrimp, fresh fish.
Specialty sake: Kobe is where you can explore the sake culture with more than 2,000 years of Japanese tradition. In Kobe, visitors can see the art of making sake and enjoy the unique flavor that captivates people at the Hakutsuru Sake Museum. In addition, around Kobe, there are many bars selling many different types of sake for you to drink on the spot or buy as gifts.
Suggested Kobe Day Trip Itinerary
If you only have 1 day to explore Kobe, you can refer to the following itinerary from Klook:
Morning
- Visit Ikuta Jinja Shrine.
- Stroll through Nankinmachi Chinatown.
Noon
- Visit a Sake Brewery to enjoy unique sake.
Afternoon
- Learn about earthquake history at the Kobe Earthquake Museum.
- Enjoy a panoramic sunset view from Kobe Port Tower.
Evening
- Relax at Arima Onsen Hot Spring Park.
Depending on the weather and your preferences, you can change your itinerary accordingly! Or you can also buy a Kobe Discovery Smart Passport to conveniently plan your itinerary and travel to your favorite places.
Recommended Accommodations When Traveling to Kobe Conveniently
When traveling to Kobe, choosing a comfortable and convenient place to stay is important for the best experience. Here is a list of 5 places to stay worth considering for you.
Kobe Portopia Hotel: Known for its sophisticated architecture and modern amenities, Kobe Portopia Hotel is an ideal place to stay for travelers. Located not far from the city center, this hotel offers a peaceful space with high-class facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant serving diverse cuisine and a relaxing spa. (klook, agoda)
Hotel Hanakoyado: With traditional Japanese architecture and a view of the beautiful Mount Rokko, Hotel Hanakoyado offers a stay close to nature. This hotel is famous for its beautiful ryokan rooms and beautiful small garden, creating a relaxing space for guests. (klook, agoda)
Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel: Located next to Kobe Port and designed with a modern style, this hotel offers panoramic views of the port and bay. With many facilities such as a restaurant, a rooftop bar and a gym, Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel is convenient for exploring the Meriken Park area and nearby attractions. (klook, agoda)
Arima Kirari: Located in Arima Onsen, one of Kobe’s most famous hot spring areas, Arima Kirari is a hotel that serves guests with warm service and private hot springs. Guests will be able to immerse themselves in a cozy space and relax in the natural hot spring baths. (klook, agoda)
Dormy Inn Kobe Motomachi Natural Hot Springs: With a convenient location near the Motomachi old town and many shopping spots, Dormy Inn Kobe Motomachi Natural Hot Springs is an ideal choice for travelers who want to explore Kobe’s unique cultural heritage. The hotel also has a natural hot spring bath to help guests relax after a day of exploring the city. (klook, agoda)
Kobe – a city of unique Eastern and Western cultural fusion will definitely bring you unforgettable experiences. From ancient temples, to modern port towers, and famous delicious dishes, this is an attractive destination you should not miss. Book a 9-day tour to Osaka – Kobe – Kyoto – Nara to explore the beauty of Kobe and other cities in the Kansai region.
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
- Todaiji Temple, Kobe Kitano-chō Ijinkan, & Kobe Harborland Day Tour from Osaka
- 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)
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.
