18 Recommended Popular Tourist Spots in Kobe! Introducing a Model Course to Explore Breathtaking Views!

When in doubt, check out these must-visit spots in Kobe!

Introducing the classic tourist spots that you shouldn't miss in Kobe.

Nankinmachi (Chinatown)

Located in the Kobe Motomachi area, Nankinmachi (Chinatown) is one of Japan's three major Chinatowns and a must-visit tourist spot in Kobe. Since the opening of Kobe Port in the Meiji era over 150 years ago, it has been loved by many people.

In Kobe's Nankinmachi, there are over 100 shops, including Chinese restaurants. You can enjoy a variety of cuisines, from regional Chinese dishes like Peking duck and Mapo tofu to dim sum restaurants offering Xiao Long Bao and pork buns, as well as fragrant Chinese tea and unique sweets like roasted marshmallows.

During the Spring Festival, lion dances and various events take place, creating a lively festival atmosphere. Additionally, a lantern festival with approximately 400 lanterns illuminating the streets is held in mid-December every year. You can enjoy a fantastic atmosphere different from the usual Nankinmachi.

Nankinmachi

• 1-3-18 Sakaemachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
• Approximately 5 minutes on foot from JR and Hanshin Motomachi Station

Meriken Park

Meriken Park offers an open and scenic view befitting a port town. It is a popular area not only for families and friends but also for couples who can enjoy romantic night views.

The symbol of Meriken Park is the beautifully curved Port Tower, which opened in 1963 and continues to be loved by locals. Currently, it is under renovation and cannot be viewed, but the "Kobe Waterfront Art Project" displays colorful projection mapping on the tower.

Meriken Park features various attractions, including the newly installed white monument "BE KOBE," a fountain where you can play with water, and the impressive Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel. Taking a leisurely stroll in this refreshing seaside breeze will allow you to spend a relaxing time.

Meriken Park

• 2 Hatoshibacho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
• Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Motomachi Station

Kobe Harborland

Kobe Harborland, known for its photogenic spots, is a harbor area where various facilities, including shopping centers, restaurants, hotels, and museums, gather.

The red brick Kobe Brick Warehouse located along the seaside houses many stylish shops. Enjoy a leisurely meal at the restaurant "L'INSIEME," where you can savor dishes made with plenty of fresh vegetables and indulge in a buffet of freshly baked bread, all while savoring the retro atmosphere of the warehouse.

At night, Kobe Harborland transforms into a calm and sophisticated atmosphere, with approximately 110 zelkova trees and buildings around the harbor illuminated. It is a popular dating spot, and from the giant Ferris wheel by the sea, you can admire the sparkling night view.

The popular cruise ship "Concerto" departs from Harborland. During the twilight cruise, you can enjoy gourmet food while watching the sunset from the ship.

Kobe Harborland

• 1 Higashikawasakicho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
• Just outside the central exit of JR Kobe Station

Kitano Ijinkan (Kitano Foreigner's House) Area

Perched on a hill, the Kitano Ijinkan (Kitano Foreigner's House) Area is a nostalgic tourist spot with Western-style buildings, exuding an atmosphere of a foreign land. The area is filled with picturesque scenes, including red brick and colorfulbuildings, stone-paved paths, and retro street lamps. It feels like walking through the streets of Europe.

The area features unique houses scattered throughout, such as "Uroko-no-Ie" with an observation gallery, showcasing the beauty of its curved lines, the "British House" that recreates Sherlock Holmes' room and the lives of British people, and the "Dutch House" where you can create your own perfume using Dutch fragrances. Each house has its own distinctive charm.

The Kitano area is also home to many cafes and sweets shops. The delicious soft-serve ice cream at "Kobe Rokko Farm" is a favorite among tourists, with a rich milk flavor. The refreshing "Frozen Grape Soft" with a pleasant acidity is perfect for hot days. While enjoying Kobe sweets, take a leisurely walk and appreciate the historic Western-style architecture.

Kitano Ijinkan (Kitano Foreigner's House) Area

• Yamamoto-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
• Approximately 15 minutes on foot from JR Sannomiya Station or various Sannomiya Station lines, or about 15 minutes by City Loop Bus, New Kobe Loop Bus, or Kobe City Bus

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

Located on a hill, Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is a historic shrine known for its association with the deity of learning, built by Lord Taira no Kiyomori. Its charming feature is its excellent location surrounded by abundant nature, with mountains right in front. Being on the hill in the Kitano Ijinkan Area, you can also enjoy a view of the German trading merchant's mansion known as the "Rooster Weathercock House" and overlook the port of Kobe.

One of the highlights of the shrine is the "Kanae Koi" hand-washing basin, located at the top of 60 steps after passing through the torii gate. It is believed to bring love and fulfillment in relationships, symbolizing "koi" (carp) and "koi" (love). The hand-washing basin is accompanied by many heart-shaped "Kanae Koi Ema" (love prayer plaques), making it a popular spot for matchmaking.

Don't miss the "Goshinushi" statue, believed to bring blessings when touched, and the unique seasonal design of the "Goshuin" (shrine seal) paper cutouts. You can enjoy beautiful scenery throughout the year, with cherry blossoms in spring, a refreshing wind chime atmosphere in summer, and autumn foliage.

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine

• 3-12-1 Kitano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
• Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Sannomiya Station or various private railway lines Sannomiya Station

Ikuta Shrine

Located on the north side of Sannomiya, Ikuta Shrine is a famous shrine known as a power spot for matchmaking. Despite its central location, the shrine grounds have a spacious and open atmosphere, bustling with energy. The massive torii gate suddenly appearing within the buildings is quite impressive.

At the back of the grounds lies "Ikuta Forest," a healing space abundant with greenery that makes it hard to believe you are in the heart of the city. It is said to be a place mentioned in famous biographies such as "The Pillow Book." Benches are placed here and there, making it a popular resting spot for locals.

Various omikuji (fortunes) are available, but the famous "Mizu Mikuji" is recommended. Mizu Mikuji is a unique form where you dip the fortune paper into a pond in Ikuta Forest, and the text appears on the wet paper. You can also take the fortune paper home as a memento.

Ikuta Shrine

• 1-2-1 Shimo Yamate-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
• Approximately 10 minutes on foot from JR Sannomiya Station or various Sannomiya Station lines

Arima Onsen

Arima Onsen, nestled among the mountains in Kobe's Kita-ku, is one of the most popular hot spring resorts in the Kansai region. It is one of Japan's oldest hot springs, and its streetscape has a charming ambiance. Its convenient access from the city center of Kobe makes it appealing for day trips.

Arima Onsen offers two types of hot springs: "Kinsen" (golden water) with cloudy water known for its beneficial effects on the skin, and "Ginsen" (silver water) with transparent and colorless water. If you want to experience both famous hot springs, it is recommended to visit the day-use public bath facilities called "Kino-yu" (golden bath) and "Gin-no-yu" (silver bath). Next to Kin-no-yu, you can also enjoy a free foot bath.

The appealof Arima Onsen extends beyond its hot springs. There are plenty of gourmet spots for food lovers, as well as parks and shrines surrounded by beautiful nature. Another popular attraction is the Arima Rokko Ropeway, which connects the mountaintop of Mt. Rokko with Arima Onsen, offering an aerial stroll.

Arima Onsen

• Arimacho, Kita-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
• Approximately 45 minutes by Hankyu Bus or Hanshin Bus from Sannomiya Station in front of JR Sannomiya Station

Nature Retreats in Kobe

Here are some tourist spots in Kobe where you can experience nature, surrounded by mountains and sea.

Nunobiki Waterfall

Located just a 5-minute walk from Shin-Kobe Station, Nunobiki Waterfall is a renowned attraction known as one of the "Three Great Waterfalls of Japan."

Nunobiki Waterfall refers to a collection of four waterfalls. The forefront is the slender Meotaki waterfall, characterized by its gentle flow amidst greenery. There are benches right in front of the waterfall, allowing you to appreciate it at your leisure. It is also a popular spot for autumn foliage viewing, attracting many visitors.

Further up the stairs, you'll find the powerful Otaki waterfall, which lives up to its name by creating a splendid spray. After rainfall, its sound grows even louder, showcasing its grandeur. The crystal-clear water and the Meotodaki waterfall flowing beneath the waterfall basin are also worth seeing.

The surroundings of the waterfall are part of a hiking trail, offering a refreshing natural environment rich in negative ions, with the scent of the forest and the chirping of birds. The "Observation Deck" located beyond Otaki waterfall provides a clear view of the Kobe cityscape. It is well-maintained and recommended for casual nature walks.

Nunobiki Waterfall

• Fukiai-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture
• Approximately 5 to 15 minutes on foot from Shin-Kobe Station

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, connecting Kobe City and Awaji Island, is a suspension bridge that boasts the world's longest span of 3,911 meters. It took 10 years to construct and was completed in 1988.

In front of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is the exotic Maiko Park, which offers a breathtaking view of the bridge and the surrounding landscape.

Additionally, the "Maiko Sea Promenade," a circular pedestrian walkway installed on the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, is also popular for its stunning views. From the 8th floor observation deck, you can experience a thrilling crossing over the wooden bridge while gazing at the sea through the glass windows, 47 meters above the water.

The only restaurant within the facility, "Tom's Cafe," offers meals and dessert menus featuring local ingredients, allowing you to enjoy the view of the sea and sunset.

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

Between Tarumi Ward, Kobe City and Awaji City Right from JR Maiko Station

Rokko Farm

Rokko Farm is a highland farm in Kobe, where you can interact with various animals and enjoy a serene landscape reminiscent of Switzerland. You can observe animals strolling freely, feed the goats, and participate in experiential activities such as horseback riding and sheepdog shows.

Approximately 170 sheep are raised here, and between 9:30 AM and 3:30 PM, they roam around the facility, allowing visitors to get up close. Both children and adults will surely find solace in observing the sheep leisurely grazing on grass.

At the "Kobe Cheese Restaurant," you can indulge in the famous Swiss dish, cheese fondue. The original sauce made with Camembert cheese produced at Rokko Farm has a rich and mellow flavor. The milk obtained at the farm, available for purchase at the "Milk Cafe," is also popular.

There are also hands-on workshops where you can make your own ice cream, frozen yogurt, cheese, butter, and more. You can spend an entire day here without getting bored.

Rokko Farm

1-1 Rokujozanchonakaichiyama, Nada-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Pref

Kobe's Photogenic and Stylish Spots

Here are some tourist spots in Kobe that will make you want to take pictures.

Rokko Garden Terrace

Located atop Mount Rokko, Rokko Garden Terrace is an observation spot with a European atmosphere.

Featuring various types of observation decks, including the "Mirai-no-To" tower inspired by old European streets, you can enjoy panoramic views of Kobe City, as well as Osaka, Kansai International Airport, and Wakayama.

One of the standout facilities is the "Rokko Edare" Natural Sensation Observation Deck, where you can enter a building made of Yoshino cedar from Nara Prefecture and experience nature with all five senses. The LED lighting creates a captivating illumination that changes with the seasons, adding a touch of enchantment.

There are also a variety of restaurants, including the "Granite Cafe" where you can savor chef's specialties along with the breathtaking view. Having dinner while enjoying the $10 million night view or indulging in an elegant lunch is highly recommended.

Rokko Garden Terrace

• 1877-9 Rokko Yamacho Gosaisan, Nada-ku, Kobe, Hyogo
• Get off at Rokko Garden Terrace by bus from various directions.

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden

Standing at the mountaintop, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden is a botanical garden blooming with colorful flowers and aromatic herbs. The Herb Garden Summit Station, a 10-minute ropeway ride away, features spots with a European ambiance, such as a rest house designed to resemble a German castle and a rose garden featuring English roses.

During the illumination events, the garden becomes even more romantic. From the observation area, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kobe's port and cityscape, making it a popular spot for dates.

On the second floor of the Observation Rest House, you'll find "The Herb Dining," a restaurant where you can enjoy course meals featuring eight appetizers made with herbs from the garden, as well as main dishes and bread. The appetizers are served on a three-tiered plate, making it perfect for a girls' get-together. Indulge in a luxurious lunch while savoring the special ambiance.

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden

• 1-4-3 Kitano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo
• About a 5-minute walk from Shin-Kobe Station, get off at Nunobiki Ropeway Summit Station for Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden.

Popular Gourmet Spots in Kobe

Let me introduce some recommended gourmet spots in Kobe, known for its delicious food.

Santo Bevitore

Located in Kobe Sannomiya, Santo Bevitore is a popular Italian restaurant that recently relocated. They offer wood-fired pizzas and a selection of wines curated by sommeliers.

Right by the entrance, you'll find a large wine cellar housing over 500 types of wines, including Italian wines and the finest selections from Europe and other countries. The interior has a natural ambiance with a tastefully designed space, making it perfect for both ladies' gatherings and dates.

Their authentic pizzas range from classic Margherita and Four Cheese to seasonal varieties, making it difficult to choose just one. They also have a rich menu featuring appetizers that pair well with wine, meat dishes, pasta, and desserts.

Santo Bevitore

• 3-10-2 Farmacianta Road, Shimoyamatedori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo
• About a 5-minute walk from JR Motomachi Station

Takoan

When it comes to Hyogo's soul food, Akashiyaki (grilled octopus dumplings) is a must-try. Takoan, located in the heart of Kobe's Sannomiya area, serves superb Akashiyaki that has gained a large number of repeat customers and often attracts long lines.

Their popular menu item is the "Akashiyaki (Jyo)" which generously uses eggs from silky chickens. It offers a fluffy texture and a flavorful broth that is simply irresistible. In addition, they have a wide variety of dishes featuring octopus and perfect accompaniments for drinks.

They also offer a limited-time service lunch set that includes 5 pieces of Akashiyaki, octopus rice, mini eggplants, and yuzu-flavored octopus, which is highly recommended. With a selection of beer, shochu, sake, and chu-hai, it is an ideal place for casual drinking.

Takoan

• 5-3-5 Asahi-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo, 2nd floor of Shirayuri Building
• About a 3-minute walk from various train lines at Sannomiya Station

Enkounan

When you visit Kobe's "Nankinmachi" (Chinatown), indulging in a culinary tour of Chinese cuisine is a must. For Shanghai's famous soup dumplings, head to Enkounan, a Chinese restaurant located near the entrance of Nankinmachi, which has also been featured in the media.

Their signature dish, the soup dumplings, has a crispy outer shell and a juicy filling that bursts with flavors when you bite into it. It's a delightful and satisfying treat that pairs well with beer.

They are also known for their homemade water dumplings with a satisfyingly firm texture and knife-cut noodles with a chewy consistency. Since the soup dumplings are available in sets of two, you can enjoy tasting different items and sharing them with others. Takeout is available, and you can also dine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Enkounan

• 1-3-9 Sakaemachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo
• About a 3-minute walk from Hanshin Motomachi Station

Stylish and Delicious Cafés and Bakeries in Kobe

Let me introduce some stylish and delicious cafés and bakeries in Kobe.

COQ

Located in the competitive café district of Motomachi, COQ is a bakery known for its mouthwatering baked goods. The master pastry chef, who previously taught confectionery at a culinary school, creates each item with exceptional skill.

Their signature menu item, Gâteau Chocolat, offers a rich cocoa flavor. The crispy tart crust is addictive, and the small portion size allows for easy indulgence. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee.

In addition to their delectable pastries, COQ takes pride in their high-quality coffee. The "Oat Latte" is crafted with carefully selected beans and milk, offering a balanced acidity and smooth texture that complements their sweets.

With its predominantly white interior, open kitchen, and cozy counter seats, the café exudes a natural and relaxed atmosphere that is quite charming.

COQ

• 4-7-11 Shimoyamatedori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo
• About a 4-minute walk from JR Motomachi Station

Frohndrieb Ikuta Store

Frohndrieb Ikuta Store is a stylish bakery and café housed in a former church. The establishment boasts a refined and fashionable atmosphere. It is also the place where the late Heinrich Frohndrieb, a German bread artisan, contributed to the spread of German bread in Kobe.

The second-floor café offers high ceilings and a spacious ambiance, allowing groups to relax comfortably. Their specialty is the sandwich made with their proud selection of bread. During lunchtime, there is often a waiting time as it is a popular item. They also offer a set menu that includes the daily sandwich, soup, and coffee or tea, exclusively from 11:30 AM to 2 PM on weekdays.

During the Christmas season, they sell "Stollen" at the first-floor bakery. This German fruitcake filled with dried fruits is a popular item that locals flock to purchase.

Frohndrieb Ikuta Store

• 4-6-15 Ikuta-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo
• About a 6-minute walk from Shin-Kobe Station, about an 11-minute walk from JR Sannomiya Station

Boulangerie Nao

Located just a short walk from JR Motomachi Station, Boulangerie Nao is a perennially popular bakery in the competitive bread district of Kobe. The cozy shop features beautifully displayed bread that is not only visually appealing but also of exceptional quality. They have an extensive selection of crusty bread that allows you to savor the natural flavors of the ingredients, pleasing even the most discerning bread lovers. Their croissants with almond cream or chocolate are particularly delightful with their rich filling and flaky pastry.

Their most popular item is the limited-quantity Shokupan (Japanese-style milk bread). The soft and fluffy texture of the bread melts in your mouth, leaving a subtle sweetness. It's delicious on its own. Since reservations are not accepted, it's a good idea to call and confirm the baking schedule in advance.

Boulangerie Nao

• 5-6-12 Kitanagasadori, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo
• About a 4-minute walk from JR Motomachi Station

Recommended 3 Model Itineraries for Sightseeing in Kobe

Kobe, easily accessible from Osaka and Kyoto, is a convenient and attractive area for sightseeing. Here are some recommended model itineraries for sightseeing in Kobe, categorized by the number of days.

Day Trip Model Itinerary for Sightseeing in Kobe

To fully enjoy the charm of Kobe, here is a model itinerary for a day trip.

Start by heading to Shin-Kobe Station, the gateway to Kobe. From there, make your way to the Kitano Ijinkan District. It takes about a 10 to 15-minute walk along the Kitano Promenade to reach the "Italy House," passing through the "Fudōzaka" slope. Alternatively, you can explore the district conveniently using the City Loop Bus, which takes you to various foreign residences. If you plan to visit several foreign residences, using a multiple-residence discount ticket is recommended.

The Kitano area offers numerous cafes and restaurants with a foreign ambiance. Nishimura Coffee Kitanozaka Store is a longstanding coffee shop that originally had a membership system, offering an elegant atmosphere. On the first floor, you can enjoy a café experience, while the second floor serves creative dishes with a focus on French cuisine.

After exploring the Kitano Ijinkan District, visit Ikuta Shrine, famous for its association with love fulfillment. Take a leisurely stroll through the Nanjingcho area, enjoy some street food, and appreciate the scenic view of the harbor at Meriken Park. Walk along the waterfront to Kobe Harborland and take your time enjoying the sunset. Finally, return to Shin-Kobe Station and buy some Kobe sweets as souvenirs before heading home.

1 Night 2 Days Model Itinerary for Sightseeing in Kobe

To further enjoy Kobe, here is a model itinerary for a 1-night, 2-day trip.

On the second day, immerse yourself in the magnificent nature of Mount Rokko and enjoy the breathtaking views. Take the ropeway from Arima Onsen Station and arrive at Rokko Sanjo Station in approximately 12 minutes. Rokko Garden Terrace, reminiscent of the old streets of Europe, offers a panoramic view of Kobe City and the dynamic Osaka Plain.

Mount Rokko has numerous facilities where you can experience nature, including the newly renovated Rokko Forest Music Museum, which opened in July 2021.

From exhibits of antique music boxes to live performances, you can enjoy pleasant melodies in various forms. The building itself resembles a countryside town in England, and the SIKI Garden, surrounded by greenery, offers soothing sights and sounds. After immersing yourself in nature, return to Arima Onsen Station by ropeway and head back home.

2 Nights 3 Days Model Itinerary for Sightseeing in Kobe

To fully enjoy Kobe, here is a model itinerary for a 2-night, 3-day trip.

On the first day, explore the city center of Kobe. On the second day, visit the Mount Rokko area, and on the third day, indulge in hot springs. Start your hot spring experience at "Kin no Yu" (Golden Hot Spring) and "Gin no Yu" (Silver Hot Spring). Morning hot springs are particularly refreshing.

Don't miss the local delicacies such as carbonated senbei (rice crackers) and onsen manju (steamed buns). There are numerous inns and hotels near Arima Onsen Station, offering accommodations as well as facilities for day trips.

For a relaxing meal in your room without any hesitation, the lunch day-trip plan at Arima Gyoen is recommended. They offer courses with shabu-shabu featuring high-quality wagyu beef, or a hot pot course that allows you to savor the abundance of Kobe beef.

After enjoying the warm and soothing hot springs, take a stroll through the famous autumn foliage spot, Zuihoji Park. Finally, visit the souvenir shops in Arima Onsen and return to Shin-Kobe Station to conclude your trip.

These model itineraries provide various options to explore and enjoy the best of Kobe. Customize them according to your preferences and make unforgettable memories in this beautiful city.

Kobe Sightseeing Spot Map

Enjoy a Relaxing Trip in Kobe, Full of Attractions!

Kobe, a charming port city in the Kansai region, offers a wide range of attractions. From trendy spots to breathtaking views of mountains and sea, picturesque streets with a foreign atmosphere, and delightful cafes and bakeries, Kobe has something for everyone.

With excellent accessibility from Osaka and Kyoto, including high-speed trains and airplanes, it's a convenient tourist destination that you can easily visit.

Take inspiration from the recommended model courses and plan a memorable trip to Kobe according to your interests and length of stay.

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