Kobe - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Kobe

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kobe, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kobe and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kobe, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Kobe for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kobe

Kobe is a city located on the southern coast of Honshu Island in Japan. It is the capital of Hyogo Prefecture and has a population of approximately 1.5 million people. Kobe is known for its scenic location between the Rokko Mountains and the coast, as well as its cosmopolitan atmosphere, international cuisine, and historical sites such as the Kobe Port Tower and the Kitano district, which is home to many Western-style houses. The city is also famous for its production of high-quality Kobe beef, which is a type of wagyu beef. Kobe is easily accessible by train or plane, with Kobe Airport and several major train lines connecting it to other cities in Japan.

What to visit in Kobe

Here are some popular tourist attractions in Kobe, Japan: 1. Kobe Harborland: This is a large shopping and entertainment district located near the waterfront. It has many shops, restaurants, cinemas, and an amusement park.
2. Mount Rokko: This is a mountain that offers beautiful scenic views of Kobe. It has a variety of hiking trails, a botanical garden, and an observatory.
3. Kobe City Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of Kobe. It has a variety of exhibits, including artifacts from the city's past and contemporary art.
4. Kitano-cho: This is a historic district in Kobe that has many Western-style houses and mansions from the late 1800s and early 1900s.
5. Nunobiki Falls: These are a series of waterfalls located near Mount Rokko. There are four separate falls, each with its unique beauty.
6. Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden: This garden is situated at the foot of Mount Rokko and is home to over 75,000 plants. It has many walking trails, a greenhouse, and a restaurant.
7. Kobe Port Tower: This tower is located in Meriken Park and offers panoramic views of the city. It stands at 108 meters tall and has an observation deck.
8. Akashi Kaikyo Bridge: This is the longest suspension bridge in the world, spanning over 3.9 kilometers. There is an observatory on the Kobe side of the bridge where visitors can take in the view.
These are just a few of the many attractions available in Kobe. Each of them has its unique appeal, making Kobe an excellent destination for travelers of all types!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Kobe

The best time to visit Kobe, Japan is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The cherry blossom season occurs in late March to early April, which is a beautiful time to visit and enjoy the vibrant pink blooms. In the autumn, Kobe is known for its colorful foliage, especially in the nearby mountains. It is also important to note that Kobe can be quite humid and rainy during the summer months (June to August), and winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kobe

Kobe is a coastal city in Japan that can be easily reached by plane, train, or even ferry.
By plane: The nearest airport is Kobe Airport, which is located on an artificial island in the middle of Kobe Port, and serves mainly domestic flights from major Japanese cities. The Kansai International Airport is also located about an hour away from Kobe by bus or train, and serves international flights as well.
By train: The city is accessible by various train lines, including the JR Kobe Line, the Hankyu Kobe Line, and the Hanshin Main Line. From Tokyo, you can take the Shinkansen bullet train to Shin-Kobe Station, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.
By ferry: Ferry services also operate between Kobe and several ports in western Japan, such as Himeji, Imabari, and Matsuyama.
Regardless of the mode of transportation chosen, visitors can always enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding areas along the way.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kobe, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kobe

Sure, here are some of the typical foods of Kobe with a short description for each of them: 1. Kobe Beef: This is one of the most famous and expensive types of beef in the world. The beef is sourced from wagyu cattle that are raised in the Kobe region. The meat is known for its tenderness and marbling.
2. Sushi: Kobe has some of the best sushi restaurants in Japan. Sushi is a Japanese dish that typically consists of bite-sized portions of raw fish on top of a small ball of rice.
3. Okonomiyaki: Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake that contains a variety of ingredients such as cabbage, meat, seafood, and green onion. The dish is often topped with a thick sauce and mayonnaise.
4. Nada Sake: Kobe is home to the Nada district, which is one of the most famous sake-making regions in Japan. Nada sake is known for its dry and crisp taste.
5. Akashiyaki: Akashiyaki is a type of takoyaki (octopus dumpling) that is specific to the Akashi region of Kobe. The dumplings are made with egg and wheat flour and are filled with octopus.
6. Kobe Chinatown Ramen: Kobe's Chinatown area is known for its delicious ramen. Kobe-style ramen is usually made with thin noodles and soy sauce-based soup.
7. Tajima-gyu beef: This is another local beef variety that is raised in the Tajima region of Japan. The meat is known for its tender texture and rich flavor.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods you can try in Kobe!
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Kobe an expensive destination for tourists?

Yes, Kobe is generally considered to be slightly more expensive than other Japanese cities, such as Tokyo or Kyoto. This is due to its reputation as a luxurious port city, with a wide range of high-end restaurants, hotels, and shops. However, there are still many budget-friendly options available for travelers, including affordable guesthouses and street food stalls. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before planning your trip to Kobe.

Where to find accomodation in Kobe

In Kobe, the best areas to find accommodations would be downtown Sannomiya, Harborland, or the Kitano district. Downtown Sannomiya is the city's main commercial and entertainment district that offers easy access to public transportation, restaurants, and shopping areas. Harborland is a modern waterfront development that features a variety of shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions. The Kitano district is famous for its Western-style houses and charming narrow streets, making it a popular destination for tourists looking for a taste of old Kobe.
You can check hotel prices at Kobe here:
Booking.com

Is Kobe a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Kobe is generally considered a safe place for tourists. Like any city, it's important to take common-sense precautions to ensure your safety, such as avoiding dark, isolated areas at night, keeping an eye on your belongings, and being aware of your surroundings. Overall, however, Kobe is a popular tourist destination and visitors can feel comfortable exploring the city. Additionally, the local government puts a strong emphasis on safety and security, and there is a visible police presence throughout the city.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kobe.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kobe the most?

Kobe is a diverse city that has something to offer for all types of travelers. Couples seeking a romantic getaway will love exploring the city's picturesque motomachi neighborhood, taking a romantic stroll along the waterfront at Harborland or enjoying a soak in the Arima Onsen hot springs. Young travelers looking for excitement can explore the neon-lit entertainment districts around Sannomiya or party the night away in some of the city's lively nightclubs and bars. Meanwhile, families will enjoy visiting Kobe's world-class museums, such as the Kobe City Museum or the Kobe Fashion Museum, as well as attractions like the Kobe Animal Kingdom or the Kobe Science Museum. Overall, Kobe has a lot to offer to travelers of all ages and interests.

How to get around Kobe

In Kobe, Japan, there are several transportation options available for moving around the city including buses, trains, subway lines, taxis, and rental cars. The city's public transport system is efficient, punctual, and extensive, covering most of the popular tourist attractions and destinations. Travelers can use a combination of transportation modes depending on their itinerary and budget to explore the city conveniently. It is also worth noting that walking or cycling is a good option for short distances or to enjoy the scenic beauty of Kobe.

What to see around Kobe

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kobe, Japan: 1. Himeji Castle - It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful and well-preserved castles in Japan.
2. Awaji Island - It is the largest island in the Seto Inland Sea and known for its scenic beauty, hot springs, and delicious seafood.
3. Arima Onsen - It is a famous hot spring town known for its healing properties and picturesque atmosphere.
4. Akashi Kaikyo Bridge - It is the longest suspension bridge in the world and offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding mountains.
5. Nara Park - It is a beautiful park that is home to over 1,200 wild deer and some of Japan's oldest and most famous temples.
6. Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden - It is a beautiful garden located on the slopes of Mount Rokko which offers spectacular views of the city and is known for its collection of over 200 kinds of herbs.
7. Osaka - It is a vibrant city that is only 30 minutes away from Kobe by train and is known for its delicious food, bustling shopping areas, and unique attractions like the Osaka Castle.
For every travel information about Japan you can click here.

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