VISIT KOBE

Kobe, which became a popular international city with an exotic and stylish atmosphere, developed its unique character following the opening of its port in 1868. European architecture and culinary culture took root through the development of the Foreign Settlement and the Kitano Ijinkan-gai neighbourhoods, and this legacy makes Kobe an attractive destination today.

Backed by majestic mountains and embraced by the sea, Kobe is rich in natural scenery and attracts countless visitors throughout the year. At around 20 minutes by train from Osaka and 50 minutes from Kyoto, access is superb, making it a convenient hub for any Kansai excursions.

Picturesque townscapes

Kitano

The Kitano Ijinkan-gai is a district lined with historic residences where foreigners lived following the port’s opening. The architecture of Ijinkan (foreign residence) in Kobe is principally of the colonial style, characterized by verandahs, painted clapboard exteriors, bay windows, louvres and red brick chimneys. Pay close attention to the unique Kobe aspects of the residences created by the Western architecture, Japanese building techniques and climate.

Kyukyoryuchi (The Former Foreign Settlement)

A retro-modern shopping district of dignified stone and brick early modernist buildings fronting onto a grid of streets.

Nankinmachi

As one of Japan’s top three Chinatowns, this is a great place to walk around with a snack in hand! Local favourites include Miso-dare gyoza (miso sauce dumplings) and Butaman (steamed pork buns). During Lunar New Year, dragon and lion dances are held, drawing large crowds of visitors.

Arima Onsen

One of the three ancient hot springs of Japan, this is a resort with two famous thermal water sources, Kinsen (“golden spring”) and Ginsen (“silver spring”), and a nostalgic townscape. Here, you can fully experience the public baths with various spring properties, and savor local specialties like the famous sakamanju (fluffy steamed buns with sweet bean filling) and croquettes while taking a leisurely stroll through the historic hot spring town.

Surrounded by nature

Mt. Rokko/Mt. Maya: Popular area for mountaintop views and nature activities

Ecstatic night views

Look down from the mountain

Gazing out from the bayside

Kobe’s Signature Cuisine

Savor the melting texture and exquisite flavor of Kobe Beef first, then revel in the authentic Yoshoku (Japanese-style Western cuisine) and Kobe Sweets that blossomed in Kobe, a port town that quickly adopted Western culture. We also recommend local dishes created by the “sauce culture” in Kobe, such as sobameshi (shredded yakisoba noodles and rice cooked with sauce) and bokkake (stewed beef tendon with konjac).

Nada sake

Nada-Gogo (the five villages of Nada), extending along the coast from Kobe to Nishinomiya, is Japan’s biggest sake-producing area. It is a great place for sampling drinks at a number of sake breweries.

Seasonal events

Add extra excitement to your Kobe trip by timing it to coincide with a great event.

What are the best souvenirs?

The classic choice would be Kobe’s original European-style treats, such as crispy gaufre wafers, finely textured Baumkuchen, and the silky-smooth Kobe pudding. For those without a sweet tooth, Japanese sake from Nada-Gogo, Kobe beef products and local sauces are popular. You might also be tempted by fashionable Kobe tartan accessories or stylish stationery.

Where to shop? 

The Sannomiya-Motomachi area at the heart of Kobe is a shopper’s paradise, full of retailers. Here, you can find everything from classic souvenirs, the latest electronics and trendy fashion items to luxury brands.

There are also many products only available at gift shops within museums, galleries and other tourist facilities, so drop by every time you visit those.

Access

・Rail: Kobe is served by Shin-Kobe Station, a stop on the Sanyo shinkansen line, making it an easy place to access from Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka to the east and Hiroshima and Kyushu from the west.

・Air: the two airports below offer international flights.

[Airport access from Sannomiya (central Kobe)]

Stay

As a hub for sightseeing, you cannot beat the Sannomiya area with its convenient transport options and plethora of dining options. The hotels of the bay area and Kobe west are simply the best with their ocean panoramas and night views. If you are looking to really relax, consider staying at a traditional Arima Onsen ryokan.

Great itineraries