19 Best Things To Do in Kobe Japan That You Can’t Miss

You know those places that just stick with you? Kobe is one of them for us. It's this amazing city in Japan, right on the water, with mountains practically rising out of the downtown. And the food... oh, the food! But trust us, there's way more to Kobe than just the famous beef. I spent days exploring, and let us tell you, the sheer number of things to do in Kobe Japan, blew us away. 

So, if you're thinking about a trip to Japan or even just dreaming about one, let TravelThru give you the best Kobe has to offer. This guide is packed with all our favorite spots, from must-see sights to little local gems you won't find in most guidebooks. Get ready to fall in love with Kobe – We know we did!

Best Places to Visit in Kobe​

1. Meriken Park 

Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a place to relax and soak up the atmosphere, or a picturesque spot for photography, Meriken Park is where it's at. The park's open grassy areas are perfect for picnics, while the waterfront promenade is ideal for a romantic walk, especially during sunset. You'll often find locals and tourists alike enjoying the lively atmosphere, with street performers and food stalls adding to the fun.

One of the park's most recognizable features is the "BE KOBE" monument. This large, white typographic sculpture has become a symbol of the city and a must-visit photo spot for tourists.

Meriken Park is also home to several interesting pieces of modern art, including the Fish Dance sculpture, a dynamic representation of a giant carp, and the Bell of Hortensia, a large bell that you can ring for good luck.

2. Kobe Port Tower

Inspired by the shape of a traditional Japanese tsuzumi drum, Kobe Port Tower's unique design is a marvel of modern architecture. Its intricate steel lattice structure not only makes it visually striking but also incredibly strong and earthquake-resistant. You can admire its beauty from the ground, taking great photos with Meriken Park in the background, or from inside, looking out of its unique windows.

Take the elevator up to the observation decks, and you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views. During the day, you can see the bustling port, the sprawling cityscape, and the lush green slopes of Mount Rokko. For the most dramatic views, try to time your visit around sunset.

While the views are obviously the main reason to go up, you can find other cool stuff, too. The tower has a revolving cafe on the 3rd floor where you can relax and enjoy the scenery with a drink or snack. There's also a souvenir shop on the ground floor for picking up a little something to remember your visit, and you can even learn a bit about the tower's history and the port.

Practical information:

• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Last entry 8:30 PM) 

   

• Admission fee: Adults: ¥1000 | Children (Elementary/Junior High School): ¥400

   

• How to get there: The tower is conveniently located in Meriken Park, a short walk from Motomachi Station (JR and Hanshin lines) or Minato Motomachi Station (Kobe Municipal Subway Kaigan Line).

3. Kobe Maritime Museum

Kobe is often listed among the best cities to visit in Japan and to get a real feel for its soul, you gotta check out the Kobe Maritime Museum. It's right in Meriken Park, and it's all about Kobe's deep connection to the sea – its history as a port, how they built ships, and just how important the ocean is to this city.

The museum's architecture alone is worth noting. Its unique white, wave-like structure is designed to evoke the image of a sailing ship, making it a standout landmark along the waterfront. Inside, you'll find a comprehensive collection of exhibits that tell the story of Kobe's relationship with the sea.

Practical information:

• Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (admittance until until 5:30 PM).

   

• Admission: Around ¥900 for adults, with discounts for children. Consider a combination ticket that may include entry to the Port Tower.

   

• Access: Easily accessible by foot from Motomachi Station or via the Kobe City Loop bus.

4. Kawasaki Good Times World

You're at the Kobe Maritime Museum, right? Well, guess what? Inside the same building is another cool spot called Kawasaki Good Times World. It's basically a museum all about the Kawasaki company, and they make way more than just motorcycles. We're talking land, sea, and air – the whole shebang!

Kawasaki started with shipbuilding, but they've branched out into all sorts of high-tech stuff over the years. This museum is a fun, hands-on way to learn about their history, their coolest inventions, and how they've impacted the world we live in.

So, if you're into technology, engineering, or just want to see some cool gadgets and learn something new, definitely check out Kawasaki Good Times World while you're at the Maritime Museum.

Practical information:

• Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (check the official website for any changes). The last admission is one hour before closing. 

   

• Admission: Included with your Kobe Maritime Museum ticket.

5. Ikuta Shrine

Ikuta Shrine's history is deeply intertwined with the history of Kobe itself. Legend has it that the shrine was founded by the Empress Jingu in 201 AD. Over the centuries, it has survived wars, and natural disasters, including the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in 1995. The shrine is dedicated to the deity Wakahirume-no-Mikoto, a goddess associated with weaving and the protection of fabric, and is said to bring good fortune in relationships and safe childbirth.

When you visit, you can get a taste of traditional Shinto practices. You can write your wishes on little wooden plaques called "ema" or try your luck with "omikuji" – those paper strips that tell your fortune. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a traditional ceremony happening while you're there.

Practical information:

• Admission: Free

   

• Opening hours: Generally open from sunrise to sunset.

   

• How to get there: A short walk from Sannomiya Station (JR, Hankyu, Hanshin, and Kobe Municipal Subway lines).

   

• Best time to visit: Anytime, but particularly beautiful during spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (fall foliage).

6. Mount Rokko

Escape the city bustle and ascend to the heights of Mount Rokko, a majestic mountain range that provides a stunning natural backdrop to Kobe. Offering panoramic vistas, refreshing alpine air, and a variety of attractions, Mount Rokko is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for breathtaking views.

Here are some of the highlights of Mount Rokko:

Rokko Garden Terrace

This charming area features English-style gardens, restaurants, and shops, all set against the backdrop of stunning panoramic views. Several observation decks provide unparalleled views of Kobe, Osaka Bay, and even as far as the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. It is a great place to enjoy a meal or simply relax and soak in the scenery, especially during sunset.

Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden

Explore a fascinating collection of over 1,500 species of alpine plants from around the world, including rare and endangered species. The garden's seasonal displays are a highlight, with vibrant colors throughout the year. Enjoy the different flowers that bloom each season, offering unique photo opportunities.

Rokko-Arima Ropeway

Connect to the famous Arima Onsen hot spring town via Rokko-Arima ropeway. The 12-minute ride offers breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and valleys, making it an experience in itself. It's a popular and convenient way to combine a visit to Mount Rokko with a relaxing soak in the onsen.

Mount Rokko Hiking Trails

For the adventurous, a network of hiking trails crisscrosses Mount Rokko, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Immerse yourself in nature, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and discover hidden waterfalls and viewpoints along the way.

Rokko Snow Park

During the winter months, Mount Rokko transforms into a winter wonderland. The park offers various activities for visitors, including skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. It's particularly popular among families and beginners due to its gentle slopes and well-maintained facilities. There are also equipment rental shops, restaurants, and rest areas available.

TravelThru’s Tip: Consider purchasing a Rokko Tourist Pass for convenient and discounted access to transportation and attractions on the mountain.

7. Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens

​​Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, Japan's largest herb garden, offers a unique and delightful experience that combines natural beauty, fragrant aromas, and stunning panoramic views of Kobe. With over 75,000 plants and flowers spanning 200 different herb varieties, the gardens offer a fragrant oasis high above Kobe.

Reachable by the scenic Shin-Kobe Ropeway, the adventure begins before you even arrive. You can wander through 12 different themed gardens, each with its own unique vibe. It's a total feast for your senses – the colors, the fragrances, everything. Trust us, your nose and your Instagram feed will thank you!

Practical information:

• Opening hours: 9:30 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. (most of the year) | 9:30 a.m. - 8:15 p.m. (Spring, Summer, and Fall weekends and holidays, as well as most of the summer).

   

• Admission fee: The round-trip ticket, which includes both the ropeway ride and entry to the herb garden, is priced at ¥1,800 for adults and ¥900 for children. One-way tickets and discounts for groups and people with disabilities are also available.

   

• How to get there: The ropeway's base station is conveniently located next to Shin-Kobe Station (Shinkansen and subway lines).

8. Sannomiya Center Gai Shopping Street

Sannomiya Center Gai Shopping Street is a vibrant and bustling covered arcade that stretches for over 500 meters through the heart of Kobe's Sannomiya district. This shopper's paradise offers a vast array of retail options, from major department stores and international brands to local boutiques, drugstores, and souvenir shops. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to indulge in some retail therapy.

Most shops are open from around 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM or 9:00 PM, but individual store hours may vary.

Unique Things to Do in Kobe Japan​

9. Indulge in Authentic Kobe Beef

You've heard of Kobe Beef, right? World-famous! But to truly experience it, you gotta go to Kobe, Japan. Sure, you might find it elsewhere, but it loses something in transit. That amazing melt-in-your-mouth fat is delicate, so it's best fresh, right where it comes from.

Kobe is full of chefs who are basically Kobe Beef ninjas. They've mastered the art of cooking this super-tender meat. While you can get it in different styles, try the Teppanyaki. It's like dinner and a show, watching your beautiful steak grilled to perfection right before your eyes!

To make sure you're getting the real deal, look for a little bronze statue in the restaurant – that means they're certified by the Kobe Beef Association. And the beef itself? It should have a chrysanthemum stamp. These are your guarantees that you're getting the good stuff, the authentic, top-quality Kobe Beef that everyone raves about.

10. Sake Brewery Tour & Tasting in Nada District

Kobe's also a huge deal for Japanese Sake. We're talking about an area called "Nada-gogo" which literally means "five brewing areas in Nada" - it is one of the top spots for sake in all of Japan.

They've got the ideal water, the right kind of rice, and even the weather plays along. People have been brewing sake there using traditional methods for ages, and many of those breweries are still going strong today.

Some of these breweries let you tour their facilities. You can learn all about the history, the culture, and the whole process of making sake. Some even offer tastings of their freshly brewed sake. 

Here are some destinations you can consider:

• Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum

   

• Kobe Shushinkan Brewery

   

• Sawanotsuru Museum

11. Explore the Historic Kitano-cho Ijinkan District

If you want something a little different from the usual sights, check out Kitano! It's this cool, multicultural neighborhood just north of downtown Sannomiya where lots of folks with international roots live. Picture this: streets lined with these gorgeous, European-style houses from back in the early 1900s.

What's awesome is that many of these old Western-style buildings have been given new life. They are now trendy cafes, unique restaurants, and all sorts of interesting shops.

You definitely should check out a couple of landmarks. There is the Weathercock House (which used to be the Thomas residence) - it's kind of the symbol of Kitano. Then there's the Uroko House & Observation Gallery, which has the outside walls look like fish scales.

12. Relax at Arima Onsen 

You've probably heard of Kobe for its beef and maybe even its sake, but did you know it's also super close to one of Japan's most famous hot spring towns? We’re talking about Arima Onsen, and it's only about a 30-minute trip from downtown Kobe. Seriously, it's one of the closest hot spring getaways you'll find to big cities like Kobe and Osaka.

Arima Onsen has two main types of hot springs: "Kinsen" (which means "Golden Onsen") and "Ginsen" (meaning "Silver Onsen").

In Japan, they have a list of nine different ingredients that make a hot spring good for you, and Kinsen has seven of them. So, besides warming you up and being great for your skin's hydration, it's also supposed to be amazing for your health and beauty.

And the town itself? Arima Onsen's streets have that charming, old-fashioned Japanese vibe. It's the perfect place to wander around after your soak, maybe pick up some cool traditional bamboo crafts, or grab some tasty street food like Manju (sweet buns) or croquettes. 

What to See and Do in Kobe​ for Family

13. Kobe Oji Zoo

Looking for a fun day out for the whole family in Kobe? Check out Kobe Oji Zoo! It's a great place for everyone, no matter how old you are, and it is educational at the same time.

Kobe Oji Zoo is one of the few places in Japan where you can see giant pandas! These adorable, fluffy creatures are super popular, and watching them play around and munch on bamboo is guaranteed to put a smile on your face. The current panda in the zoo is an elderly female named Tan Tan.

Practical information:

• Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM). Closed Wednesdays (If Wednesday is a national holiday, closed the next day).

   

• Admission fee: Adults: ¥600 | Children (Junior High and under): Free.

   

• How to get there: A short walk from Oji Koen Station (Hankyu Line) or Nada Station (JR Line).

14. Kobe Animal Kingdom

​​Unlike traditional zoos, Kobe Animal Kingdom emphasizes interaction and close encounters. Many of the animals here roam freely in these huge enclosures, so you can actually see them really close and sometimes even touch or feed them.

Practical information:

• Opening hours: Generally 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Weekdays), 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Weekends & Holidays). Closed Thursdays (If Thursday is a holiday, then the park is open. May be open everyday during peak seasons).

   

• Admission fee: Adults (Junior High School and above): ¥2,200 | Elementary school students: ¥1,200 | Infants (4-5 years old): ¥500 | Seniors (65 and older): ¥1,600.

   

• How to get there: Take the Port Liner from Sannomiya Station to K Computer Mae Station (Kobe Animal Kingdom).

15. Anpanman Children's Museum & Mall

​​If you're traveling to Kobe with young children, a visit to the Kobe Anpanman Children's Museum & Mall is a must! This delightful attraction is dedicated to the beloved Japanese anime character, Anpanman, a superhero whose head is made of anpan (a sweet bread roll). Filled with interactive exhibits, play areas, and character meet-and-greets, it's a paradise for young fans and a fun experience for the whole family.

Practical information:

• Opening hours: Museum: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Last entry 5:00 PM) | Shopping Mall: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

   

• Admission fee: ¥2,000 (including tax) for ages 1 and older. Children under 1 are free but will not receive the special gifts that paying children receive.

   

• How to get there: Located in Harborland, a short walk from JR Kobe Station, Kosoku Kobe Station, and Harborland Station.

Things to Do in Kobe at Night

16. Mosaic Ferris Wheel

As the sun sets over Kobe, the Mosaic Ferris Wheel in Harborland transforms into a glittering icon. This giant Ferris wheel is part of the Mosaic Garden, and it's the place to go for incredible night views of Kobe. You'll see the whole city lit up, the harbor twinkling, and the mountains in the distance.

A ride on the Ferris wheel takes about 10 minutes, and the 360-degree views are simply breathtaking.

The Mosaic Ferris Wheel is a particularly popular spot for couples, offering a romantic setting to enjoy the city lights and each other's company. It's the perfect way to end a romantic evening in Kobe.

Practical information:

• Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

• Admission fee: ¥800 per person (ages 3 and older).

   

• How to get there: Located in Harborland, a short walk from JR Kobe Station, Kosoku Kobe Station, and Harborland Statio.

17. Chinatown (Nankinmachi)

Nankinmachi is a food lover's paradise, especially at night when the air fills with the enticing aromas of street food. Numerous stalls offer a wide array of Chinese and Japanese-Chinese fusion dishes. You can try butaman (steamed pork buns), shoronpo (soup dumplings), Peking duck, ebichili (shrimp in chili sauce), and various fried snacks.

While some restaurants stay open later, a lot of the street food stalls start packing up around 8 or 9 PM. So, get there a bit earlier in the evening to make sure you can sample all the deliciousness!

>>> Check out more mouth-watering Japanese street foods to try on your trip!

18. Maya Kikuseidai Observation Platform

Mount Rokko has tons of amazing viewpoints, but if you want the best night view in Kobe – maybe even one of the best in Japan – you gotta get to the Maya Kikuseidai Observation Platform. People call it Kikuseidai for short, and its nickname is the "10 Million Dollar Night View." You can see the entire city of Kobe lit up, all the way across the bay to Osaka and even further.

While the night view is the star of the show, Kikuseidai is awesome during the day, too. You can enjoy a clear view of the city, the harbor, and the surrounding mountains. The platform is also home to the "Mount Maya Star Station," which houses a restaurant and a shop selling souvenirs and local products.

19. Night Cruise on Kobe Bay

A night cruise on Kobe Bay is a relaxing and romantic way to experience the city. The gentle rocking of the boat, the cool sea breeze, and the stunning views create a truly magical atmosphere. It is also very peaceful since you are away from the noise of the city.

Several companies offer night cruises on Kobe Bay, some popular options include:

• Luminous Kobe 2: Large cruise ship that also offers dinner options. The cruise goes under the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge.

   

• Kobe Concerto: Another large cruise ship that offers dinner options. This cruise stays in the Kobe Port area.

   

• boh boh KOBE: A smaller, more casual cruise ship that has drinks and snacks.

Many cruises offer the option to enjoy dinner onboard, ranging from casual buffets to elegant multi-course meals. This can be a great way to combine sightseeing with a delicious dining experience. You can also often enjoy live music.

Kobe Trip Itinerary for 1 Day

Morning:

• 9:00 AM: Start your day at Shin-Kobe Station. If you're coming from outside Kobe, this is likely where your Shinkansen will arrive.

   

• 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM: Take the Shin-Kobe Ropeway up to Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens. Enjoy the scenic ride and explore the beautiful gardens, taking in the panoramic views of the city. 

   

• 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM: Take the ropeway back down and head towards Kitano-cho Ijinkan. 

   

• 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Explore the charming historic district of Kitano-cho, known for its Western-style houses. Consider visiting one or two of the houses open to the public, such as the Weathercock House or Moegi House.

Lunch:

• 12:30 PM - 1:30 PM: Head to Sannomiya or Motomachi for lunch. This is a great opportunity to try Kobe beef. Consider a restaurant like Steakland Kobe (popular and relatively affordable) or Mouriya (high-end). Alternatively, explore the many restaurants in Sannomiya Center Gai Shopping Street for other options. 

Afternoon:

• 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM: After lunch, visit Ikuta Shrine, a tranquil oasis in the city center.

   

• 2:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Walk or take a short taxi ride to Meriken Park. 

   

• 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM: Explore Meriken Park, see the "BE KOBE" monument, Kobe Port Tower, and the Kobe Maritime Museum. You may not have time to go inside each of these, so choose based on your interests.

Evening:

• 4:30 PM - 6:00 PM: Head to Harborland and ride the Mosaic Ferris Wheel for stunning sunset views. 

   

• 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM: Explore Harborland, do some shopping or window shopping, and soak in the atmosphere.

   

• 7:00 PM onward: Enjoy dinner at one of Harborland's many restaurants, or head to Nankinmachi (Chinatown) for a delicious and lively dinner experience. 

>>> Read more:

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Kobe is a city that invites exploration, a place where every street corner holds a new discovery. We've journeyed together through its vibrant districts, sampled its culinary treasures, and uncovered just a fraction of the incredible things to do in Kobe Japan. 

Now, it's your turn to step into the story. Use this guide as your starting point, but don't be afraid to wander, to get lost, and to uncover your own hidden gems. The things to do in this city are as diverse as its landscape, and your perfect Kobe adventure is waiting to be written.