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green trees and plants near white and brown house under blue sky during daytime
green trees and plants near white and brown house under blue sky during daytime - Photo by note thanun

Experience Kobe's Sights and Sounds: A Japan Travel Blog

About Kobe, Japan

Kobe, Japan is a port city known for its scenic beauty, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. Visit Kitano-cho for a taste of the city's history and culture, or venture to Harborland for modern shopping and entertainment. With nearby attractions like Mount Rokko and Arima Onsen, Kobe is a must-see destination for any traveler to Japan.

Kobe is a beautiful and historic city located in the Hyogo Prefecture of Japan. It is a popular tourist destination due to its rich history, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine.

One of the most popular attractions in Kobe is the Kobe Port Tower. This iconic tower is over 100 meters tall and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the area. The tower also features a café and a souvenir shop.

Another must-see attraction in Kobe is the Ikuta Shrine. This ancient shrine is over 1,800 years old and is one of the oldest shrines in Japan. It is dedicated to the Shinto god of medicine and is visited by thousands of pilgrims every year. The shrine features beautiful architecture and stunning gardens.

For those interested in history, a visit to the Kobe City Museum is a must. This museum features exhibits on the history of Kobe, including its role as a major port city and its recovery from the devastating earthquake of 1995. Visitors can learn about the city's rich cultural heritage and explore artifacts from its past.

In addition to its cultural attractions, Kobe is also famous for its delicious cuisine. The city is known for its Kobe beef, which is a type of high-quality beef that is renowned for its tenderness and flavor. Visitors can enjoy this delicious meat at one of the many restaurants throughout the city.

Overall, Kobe is a fantastic travel destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or cuisine, you are sure to find something to love in this vibrant and beautiful city.

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Popular Stays in Kobe, Japan

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Kobe, Japan

General view
Business hotelsHotels with spa

Ana Crowne Plaza Kobe

Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages. If you're looking for recreational opportunities, you'll find an indoor pool, a sauna, and a fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands. Enjoy Italian cuisine at Restaurant & Bar LEVEL 36, one of the hotel's 7 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe. Relax with a refreshing drink at one of the 3 bars/lounges. Buffet breakfasts are available daily for a fee. Featured amenities include dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. This hotel has 23 meeting rooms available for events. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite. Make yourself at home in one of the 592 air-conditioned rooms featuring refrigerators and LCD televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and bidets. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks. Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Shin-Kobe Ropeway - 0. 1 km / 0. 1 mi- Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- Kitano Ijinkan Street - 0. 7 km / 0. 4 mi- Space 11 Darvish Museum - 1. 1 km / 0. 7 mi- Nunobiki Falls - 1. 1 km / 0. 7 mi- Jewish Community of Kansai - 1. 2 km / 0. 7 mi- Kobe Mosque - 1. 5 km / 0. 9 mi- Ikuta Shrine - 1. 7 km / 1 mi- Shin-Kobe Trail - 1. 8 km / 1. 1 mi- Kobe City Hall - 2 km / 1. 3 mi- Higashi Yuenchi Park - 2. 2 km / 1. 4 mi- Motomachi Shopping Street - 2. 2 km / 1. 4 mi- Sorakuen Garden - 2. 3 km / 1. 4 mi- Kobe Oji Zoo - 2. 3 km / 1. 4 mi- Kobe City Museum - 2. 4 km / 1. 5 mi. The nearest airports are: Kobe Airport (UKB) - 8. 7 km / 5. 4 mi Itami Airport (ITM) - 43. 6 km / 27. 1 mi Kansai Intl. Airport (KIX) - 70. 3 km / 43.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with spaFamily hotels

Kobe Bay Sheraton Hotel And Towers

Pamper yourself with onsite massages, body treatments, and facials. If you're looking for recreational opportunities, you'll find hot springs, a nightclub, and outdoor tennis courts. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands. Enjoy French cuisine at Kobe Grill, one of the hotel's 4 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the room service (during limited hours). Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe. Relax with a refreshing drink at one of the 3 bars/lounges. Buffet breakfasts are available daily from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access, limo/town car service, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Event facilities at this hotel consist of conference space and a meeting room. A roundtrip airport shuttle is provided for a surcharge (available 24 hours), and free self parking is available onsite.
General view

Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel

Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel is a popular choice amongst travelers in Kobe, whether exploring or just passing through. The property features a wide range of facilities to make your stay a pleasant experience. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms, taxi service, wheelchair accessible, 24-hour front desk, facilities for disabled guests are there for guest's enjoyment. Television LCD/plasma screen, air purifier, carpeting, dressing room, humidifier can be found in selected guestrooms. The hotel offers various recreational opportunities. Convenience and comfort makes Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel the perfect choice for your stay in Kobe. ~Meal plan~ Meals are not included in the room rate for children ages 5 and younger included in the reservation. It will be charged at the property. For the price details please check the official website.
Lobby
Business hotelsHotels with spa

Ginsuiso Choraku

Height overview hot spring area and famous Rokko mountains,can enjoy Arima and rich nature of four seasons from each guest rooms.Kyou- tea ceremony dish for meal with seasonal ingredients will be served at room one by one,can be tasted relaxingly.Can enjoy various baths-open hot air spring of iron sodium chloride strong base・mineral spring large public bath・sauna room etc.
General view
Business hotelsHotels with spa

Hotel La Suite Kobe Harborland

Luxury Hotel in Kobe Harbarland. You can enjoy the fabulous panoramic Kobe port and night view from the bathroom.
Lobby

Hotel Monte Hermana Kobe Amalie

Hotel Monterey Amalie is designed to feel as if you are on board a luxurious sailboat, located in 7min from Sannomiya Station. Ikuta Shrine and Kobe Kitano Ijinkan are within easy reach. The 69 guest rooms include Simmons Mattress, Air purifier/ Humidifier and Wardrobes, jointly produced by GUNZE. The hotel offers a beautiful wedding chapel. Crystal lighting down the wedding aisle, a tiled mosaic floor and delicate etching adorn the walls, giving the chapel unique ambience. The green Ivy Garden, holding a congenial after-ceremony, Banquet rooms and conference rooms are available.
Restaurant
Business hotelsHotels with charm

Hotel Monterey Kobe

The rooms combine a refined elegance with modern practical amenities for a relaxing and comfortable stay. Rooms are all Non-smoking and equipped Free Wi-Fi, bath amenities and pajamas. On the 2nd floor of the hotel, there is a public bath and sauna, allowing guests to relax in a large bathing facility and soothe away the weariness of travel. The men's facility has a large bath and dry sauna, while the ladies' facility has a large bath and mist sauna.
Lobby
Business hotels

Hotel Okura Kobe

Don't miss out on the many recreational opportunities, including a health club, an indoor pool, and an outdoor tennis court. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge). Grab a bite at MAIN BAR EMERALD(BAR), one of the hotel's 3 restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the room service (during limited hours). Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/cafe. Wrap up your day with a drink at the bar/lounge. Buffet breakfasts are available daily from 7:00 AM to 10 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include complimentary wired internet access, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. A train station pick-up service is provided at no charge, and self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite. Make yourself at home in one of the 468 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and flat-screen televisions.

Things to do in Kobe, Japan

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Kobe, Japan

Kobe Harbor Land
Digital Voucher600 minutes

Private & Custom KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) Day Tour by Toyota COMMUTER (Max 13 Pax)

Private VIP Tour in KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) allows you to “Customize Your Itinerary” to fit your specific travel expectations. You have your own private Minivan Toyota COMMUTER and English speaking driver for approximately 8 hours. Our team assists you to manage the tour, give recommendations, make reservations and check information. <<< You customize your own Day Trip in KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) >>> STEP1: We propose list of famous destinations while you share with us your travel desires and special requests. STEP2: With careful communication and planning, we share and exchange our draft detailed itinerary. STEP3: We revise/finalize the itinerary. ***You can always change the itinerary even on the day while traveling on the van. Please feel free to reach our team and driver for recommendation at any time. ***Extra 1 ~ 2 hours will be given for free only in case of heavy traffic jam and unexpected delay(s). ***Extra charges will be applied for over time service.
Kobe Private Tours with Locals: 100% Personalized, See the City Unscripted
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Kobe Private Tours with Locals: 100% Personalized, See the City Unscripted

It's impossible to see all Kobe's must-sees in a day! The important thing is that you get to experience the highlights that are unmissable to you so hand your bucket-list over to one of our hosts and get exploring! Whether you want to explore iconic monuments, check out the scenic gardens and beautiful waterfalls or sink your teeth into the famous Kobe beef- the choice is yours. From leisurely strolls along the Maiko Marine Promenade to hikes up Mount Rokko and food sampling in Kobe Motomachi- aka the street of shopping- adventure awaits. Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do.
Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide
Digital Voucher240 minutes

Kobe 4hr Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide

This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Kobe! Perched on a hillside sloping down to the sea, Kobe is one of Japan's most attractive and cosmopolitan cities. Compact and designed for walking, it is easily visited as a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto. Immerse yourself in the city's distinct atmosphere and dining options! Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a four-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Ginkakuji - The Silver Pavilion
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Private & Custom KYOTO Walking Tour - your Travel Companion

Private & Custom KYOTO walking tour allows you to “Tailor Your Itinerary” to fit your specific travel expectations. You have your own private English speaking Travel Companion for approximately 8 hours. Our team assists you to draft itinerary, prepare tickets, book restaurants/local experiences, take pictures, communicate with local vendors, direct you to the destinations, keep time, assist you throughout the trip and more! STEP1: Please select your favorite destinations from "What to Expect" and share with us your other special requests STEP2: Our team draft your tentative custom itinerary and share with you STEP3: We revise/finalize the itinerary base on your feedback STEP4: Let's explore KYOTO REMARKS A. You can always make change to the itinerary even while traveling. The tour is flexible to your own needs and goals. B. Extra charges will be applied for over time service
Kobe Shore Excursion to Kyoto
Digital Voucher480 minutes

Kobe Shore Excursion to Kyoto

Take the train to Kyoto with your local host, and discover another side of Japanese culture in its 8th-century capital. Explore the cobbled streets of traditional entertainment district Gion, see the famous flame-colored tunnel of Fushimi Inari Shrine, or visit the Arashiyama bamboo grove in western Kyoto. At dusk, when the city’s iconic paper lanterns are lit, you could even spot a mesmerizing geisha floating through the streets. Whatever you decide, you’ll discover more than just the Kyoto in your guidebook. Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do.
Head to Rokko Mountain.Great view!!
Digital Voucher420 minutes

Kobe 1-Day Private Walking Highlights Tour

Kobe is one of the largest ports town in Japan, along with Yokohama. Kobe has been an important trade city since Japan's opening of the port in 1868, after the end of Japan's isolation from foreign countries for over 200 years.  The city is sheltered by Rokko mountain. Therefore, this ocean view from the mountain is very famous activity for Japanese people. You can enjoy highlight spots in Kobe with our local guide in 1 day.
Nunobiki Herb Garden
Digital Voucher420 minutes

1-Day Kobe Highlights Tour including Sake Tasting

Enjoy a leisurely 7-hour tour of Kobe, a port town that developed and flourished after Japan opened its ports to the world in the mid 19th century with a local guide. From the north in nature rich Mt. Rokko, downtown Kobe City in the south where you can enjoy shopping and gourmet, and Japan's leading sake breweries in the eastern Kashiwa sake district, enjoy a varied atmosphere in this coastal city. This tour covers all the best Kobe has to offer. We also offer pick-up and drop-off at Kobe Port making this a convenient day trip for those visiting Kobe on cruise ships such as the “Diamond Princess” or the “Celebrity Millennium”.
Sake Tasting Tour at Local Breweries in KOBE
Digital Voucher210 minutes

Sake Tasting Tour at Local Breweries in KOBE

In this experience, you will get to visit about 3 of our favorite breweries located in the Nada area of Kobe. You will taste the differences between sakes—the highest quality, unfiltered, unpasteurized, and many other seasonable sakes. This tour includes an enriching experience in sake production. You will not only get to taste a wide variety of sake but also learn to appreciate them. A friendly English-speaking guide is present to answer any of your questions along the way. Come and join this thrilling experience!

Why People Love Kobe, Japan

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Kobe, Japan

K
Kanchana_R
5
Apr 2024
Private & Custom KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) Day Tour by Toyota COMMUTER (Max 13 Pax)
Private & Custom KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) Day Tour by Toyota COMMUTER (Max 13 Pax)
Private & Custom KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) Day Tour by Toyota COMMUTER (Max 13 Pax)
Private & Custom KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) Day Tour by Toyota COMMUTER (Max 13 Pax)
Himeji Castle and the castle gardens are arguable the most beautiful in all of Japan and these stunning picture-perfect sites were made even more spectacular for our family of 6 by our guide Marin, who also doubled up as our driver. Marin is not just highly knowledgeable with history but also reg...
C
Christy_D
5
Jun 2024
Private & Custom KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) Day Tour by Toyota COMMUTER (Max 13 Pax)
Private & Custom KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) Day Tour by Toyota COMMUTER (Max 13 Pax)
Private & Custom KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) Day Tour by Toyota COMMUTER (Max 13 Pax)
Private & Custom KOBE (HIMEJI CASTLE) Day Tour by Toyota COMMUTER (Max 13 Pax)
Kobe is a great place to explore and the people were incredibly friendly and helpful. Thank you to our guide, Nana! She shared beautiful gardens and streets throughout the city!
9
921josephinel
5
Dec 2023
Kobe Private Tours with Locals: 100% Personalized, See the City Unscripted
Kobe Private Tours with Locals: 100% Personalized, See the City Unscripted
Kobe Private Tours with Locals: 100% Personalized, See the City Unscripted
Kobe Private Tours with Locals: 100% Personalized, See the City Unscripted
Michelle was wonderful and fun. We were lucky to have her as she was born and raised in Kobe. We were travelers not tourists. She took around Kobe where only the locals went which was great. Thank you Michelle!

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Explore all things to do in Kobe, Japan

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Frequently Asked Questions about Kobe

What are the must-visit attractions in Kobe?

Kobe has many interesting attractions to visit, but some of the must-visit ones include the Kobe Port Tower, the Nunobiki Herb Garden, and the Kobe City Museum. The Kobe Port Tower offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the ocean. The Nunobiki Herb Garden is a beautiful botanical garden that is home to a wide variety of plants and flowers. The Kobe City Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Kobe.

What are some fun activities to do in Kobe?

Kobe offers a variety of fun activities to enjoy. Some of the most popular ones include visiting the Kobe Animal Kingdom, taking a stroll through the Kitano District, and exploring the Kobe Chinatown. The Kobe Animal Kingdom is a great place to see a variety of animals up close, including tigers, lions, and giraffes. The Kitano District is a charming area filled with historic Western-style houses. Kobe Chinatown is a vibrant area with many shops and restaurants to explore.

Where are the best places to eat in Kobe?

Kobe is known for its delicious food, particularly its Kobe beef. Some of the best places to eat in Kobe include Steak Land, Wakkoqu, and Mouriya. Steak Land is a popular restaurant that serves high-quality Kobe beef. Wakkoqu is another great restaurant that is known for its Kobe beef dishes. Mouriya is a traditional steakhouse that has been serving Kobe beef for over 130 years.

What are the best accommodations in Kobe?

Kobe has a variety of great accommodations to choose from. Some of the best ones include the Hotel Okura Kobe, the Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel, and the ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe. The Hotel Okura Kobe is a luxurious hotel that offers stunning views of the city and the harbor. The Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel is a stylish hotel located near the waterfront. The ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe is a modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms and great amenities.

What is the best time of year to visit Kobe?

The best time of year to visit Kobe is in the spring or fall. The weather is mild and comfortable during these seasons, and there are many festivals and events that take place during this time. The Kobe Festival takes place in May and is a great event to experience the local culture. The Kobe Luminarie is a stunning light festival that takes place in December and is a must-see event.

What is the transportation system like in Kobe?

Kobe has an efficient and convenient transportation system. The city has a subway system that connects many of the major attractions and neighborhoods. There are also buses and taxis available for those who prefer to travel by land. For those who want to travel by water, there are ferries that connect Kobe to other cities in the region.

What is the nightlife like in Kobe?

Kobe has a vibrant nightlife scene that offers something for everyone. Some of the best places to go for a night out include the Harborland area, the Sannomiya area, and the Motomachi area. The Harborland area is a popular entertainment district that has many shops, restaurants, and bars. The Sannomiya area is another popular district that is known for its nightlife. The Motomachi area is a historic district that has many trendy bars and nightclubs.

What are some cultural experiences to have in Kobe?

Kobe is a city rich in culture and history. Some of the best cultural experiences to have in Kobe include visiting the Kobe City Museum, exploring the Kitano District, and attending a traditional tea ceremony. The Kobe City Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of the city. The Kitano District is a charming area filled with historic Western-style houses. Attending a traditional tea ceremony is a great way to experience Japanese culture firsthand.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Kobe?

Kobe is located near many beautiful natural areas that offer a variety of outdoor activities. Some of the best outdoor activities to do in Kobe include hiking in the Rokko Mountains, exploring the Nunobiki Falls, and visiting the Kobe Maritime Museum. The Rokko Mountains offer many hiking trails that offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape. The Nunobiki Falls are a series of waterfalls that are located near the city center. The Kobe Maritime Museum is a great place to learn about the history of the city's port.

What are some shopping destinations in Kobe?

Kobe has many great shopping destinations to choose from. Some of the best ones include the Harborland area, the Sannomiya area, and the Motomachi area. The Harborland area is a popular shopping district that has many shops and boutiques. The Sannomiya area is a bustling shopping district that has many department stores and chain stores. The Motomachi area is a historic district that has many trendy shops and boutiques.