Top 25 Things To Do In Kobe, Hyogo, Japan - Updated 2024

things to do in kobe japan
James
James 
Updated
| 12 min read

Perched between Osaka Bay on its south end and Mount Rokko on its north, Kobe is a beautiful city in Hyogo, central Japan renowned for its tasty beef. This historic port city welcomes tourists from around the world, with a host of attractions, panoramic views of the mountains, and, of course, the taste of its signature Wagyu beef. Kobe is one of Japan’s 10 largest cities. It was hit by the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in 1995, though it has bounced back from the devastation pretty well. The Rokko Mountain offers an excellent opportunity to hike through steep paths and enjoy picturesque views from its range. The town also houses historic temples and museums, including the Ikuta Shrine. To begin your adventure, check out the best things to do in Kobe, Hyogo, Japan.

1. Enjoy your time exploring Kobe Oji Zoo

141025 Kobe Oji Zoo Kobe Japan06n
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user 663highland used under CC BY 2.5

This zoo is not only the home to a giant panda and koalas but also home to the highest number of Flamingos in Japan. The animal life in Kobe Oji Zoo is something worth exploring. Established in 1928, the zoo caters for over a million visitors annually. At this historic zoo, you get to interact with several animals, including a few Indian elephants, polar bears, and the famous giant panda - Tan Tan. Inside the zoo, the former residence of EH Hunter, founder of Osaka Iron Works, is a prime example of ijinkan (or foreign home) and is also a splendid sight to see, featuring magnificent Western-style designs and light green walls.

Kobe Oji Zoo

Address: 3 Chome-1 Ojicho, Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 657-0838, Japan

Website: Kobe Oji Zoo

Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 9am - 5pm (closed on Wed)

Price: 6 USD

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2. Breathe in some fresh air in the lush greenery of Nunobiki Herb Garden

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden09bs3200
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user 663highland used under CC BY 2.5

A walk through a garden filled with the fragrance of flowers and herb with your eyes closed is almost heavenly. Opening your eyes to explore the beauty of Nunobiki is similar to having a taste of heaven. The 12 extensive gardens feature over 200 blooms of 75,000 herbs and flowers. From the Fragrant Garden to the Lavender Garden, there is so much to see. You would not want to miss out on a chance to enjoy panoramic views of Kobe in a 10-minute midair stroll on Nunobiki Ropeway.

Nunobiki Herb Garden

Address: Japan, 〒650-0002 Hyogo, Kobe, Chuo Ward, Kitanocho, 1−4-3

Website: Nunobiki Herb Garden

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 13 USD

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3. Get a glimpse of cultural heritage at Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum

160312 Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum Kobe Japan18s
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user 663highland used under CC BY 2.5

The collection of ancient tools in the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum speaks of Japan’s cultural heritage. Situated among lush vegetation at the foot of Mount Rokko, the museum is an attraction that not only appeals to history enthusiasts but also lovers of nature’s beauty. The museum is made up of two floors below ground and one above. There is a lobby on the floor above the ground with wooden furniture where you can relax and enjoy the green scenery around.

Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum

Address: 7 Chome-5-1 Kumochicho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-0056, Japan

Website: Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9:30am - 4:30pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 5 USD

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4. Remember dark times in Kobe's history at Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park

Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park01ds3200
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user 663highland used under CC BY 2.5

This memorial park is located inside Meriken Park, where the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake destroyed 60 m (197 ft) breakwater of Meriken Pier in 1995. The park is dedicated to the memory of the earthquake and has been preserved in such a way that visitors can safely view it. You can watch images, videos, and models that tell of the magnitude of the earthquake. Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park takes you through the story of the devastation and the survival of the dark times.

Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park

Address: 2 Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0042, Japan

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: 6 USD

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5. Treat your eyes to the view of Nunobiki Falls

things to do in kobe japan | treat your eyes to the view of nunobiki falls
Source: instagram

Waterfalls are considered significant in Japan as they are seen as divine falls. Nunobiki Falls is one of the most significant falls in Japan. The towering falls in downtown Kobe are a beauty to behold. A short hike from the Shin-Kobe station through lush vegetation, well-paved paths, and mountains would lead you to these scenic falls. There are four waterfalls: Ondaki, Mendaki, Tsusumigadaki, and Izumoki, to explore. The sight of water gushing through the rocks is pure beauty; you don’t want to miss it.

Nunobiki Falls

Address: Fukiaicho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-0058, Japan

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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6. Quench your adrenaline thrist by hiking up Mount Rokko or Mt. Futatabi

Mt rokko01s2816
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user 663highland used under CC BY 2.5

Sitting 930 meters (3,051.2 feet) above sea level, Mount Rokko provides one of the best hiking experiences in Kobe. The hike to the top will take you through an idyllic setting of small rivers and waterfalls. At the top, you are rewarded with pleasant views of Osaka bay and Kobe city. After the hike, be sure to enjoy a swim in the warm waters of Arima Onsen. Mount Futatabi also offers a great hiking option with scenic views of the mountains and lake.

Mount Rokko

Address: Higashinada-ku, Higashinada, Kobe 658-0000, Hyogo

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7. Visit the Tetsujin 28 Statue

18-m (59 ft) Tetsujin 28 (aka Gigantor) statue in Kobe, Japan.

Posted by Robot Collectors Haven (RCH) on Friday, 2 November 2012

Tetsujin 28 is a giant memorial of the 7.3-tremor Great Hanshin-Awaji earthquake which rocked various cities in Japan in 1995. The 18m (59 ft) statue is a manga character from Mitsuteru Yokoyama’s 1956 “Tetsujin 28-go.” The dwarfing statue stands in Wakamatsu Park. The beautiful work of art attracts a lot of children who love the comic character, which depicts strength and hope. Tetsujin 28 is a perfect backdrop for beautiful holiday shots with children and family.

Tetsujin 28 Statue

Address: Japan, 〒653-0038 Hyogo, Kobe, Nagata Ward, Wakamatsucho, 6 Chome−3 若松公園

Website: Tetsujin 28 Statue

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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8. Stroll across Akashi Kaikyo Bridge to get stunning views

Akashi-Kaikyo Ohashi -01
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Aimaimyi used under CC BY-SA 3.0

This iconic suspension bridge was opened in 1998 and was the longest suspension bridge at that time. It is sometimes called Pearl Bridge and is located in West-central Japan. The bridge has six lanes and connects Kobe to Awaji Island. At the foot of the bridge on the Kobe end, there is an exhibition center that tells tourists all about the planning and construction of the bridge. Also explore Maiko Marine Promenade which is made up of observatory hallways where you can see the bridge’s interior, Akashi Strait, and Osaka Bay.

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

Address: 4 Higashimaikocho, Tarumi Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 655-0047, Japan

Website: Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

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9. Embrace technology at Kawasaki Good Times World


Technology is appreciated when we can see where we are coming from against where we are now. Kawasaki Good Times World is a display of the wealth of technology of the Kawasaki Heavy Industries Group. This technological giant is known for making motorcycles, ships, and aircraft. The museum is located in the same building as the Maritime Museum, close to Kobe Port Tower. You can even enjoy a flight simulator and a train simulator to experience the real deal.

Kawasaki Good Times World

Address: 2-2 Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0042, Japan

Website: Kawasaki Good Times World

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 6 USD

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10. Discover Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum

things to do in kobe japan | discover hakutsuru sake brewery museum
Source: instagram

While savoring alcoholic drinks made from fermented rice and water, popularly known as ‘sake’ in Japan, it will be cool to also know about the process of making them. Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum pays homage to the sake-making process. It is an old sake brewhouse which is still in its original form. You can walk through the process, from the cooling apparatus to the koji culture room, with detailed videos explaining better. You also get to have a taste of sake that is freshly pressed and unpasteurized.

Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum

Address: 4 Chome-5-5 Sumiyoshi Minamimachi, Higashinada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 658-0041, Japan

Website: Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum

Opening hours: 9:30am - 4:30pm (daily)

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11. Climb Kobe Port Tower


The 360-degree view of bright city lights of the town below and clear blue skies above from Kobe Port Tower is the kind of a beauty you cannot forget. Completed in 1963, the tower is located in the Central District of Kobe. Visitors can see the harbor and a panoramic view of Rokko Mountains along the horizon. The tower offers the best views of the city’s skyline at night. From the top, you can watch the busy Sannomiya area go to sleep. The starry night sky is romantic enough for a proposal.

Kobe Port Tower

Address: 5-5 Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0042, Japan

Website: Kobe Port Tower

Opening hours: 9am - 8:30pm (daily)

Price: 7 USD

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12. Shop till you drop at Santica Shopping Mall


This unique underground shopping mall adds a new ring to the already exciting shopping activities in the city. Located in Sannomiya, this mall is connected to the Hankyu Railway and the Kobe City Transportation Bureau. The mall features over 120 shops and 30 restaurants to explore. You will not get bored scanning through the various windows displaying a wide variety of goods you will want to take home. The exit from this underground shopping tunnel can be seen at multiple points across Sannomiya, including train stations for convenience.

Santica Shopping Mall

Address: Japan, 〒650-0021 Hyogo, Kobe, Chuo Ward, Sannomiyacho, 1 Chome−10−1

Website: Santica Shopping Mall

Opening hours: 10am - 8pm (daily)

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13. Pamper yourself at Angsana Spa

Spa Picture
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user IQP used under CC BY-SA 3.0

While actively touring the beautiful city of Kobe in Hyogo, you will need to relax your body and give it a treat. A trip to Angsana Spa is the kind of gift you should give your body while on vacation. This spa is luxurious and has staff who keenly understand the use of soothing fragrances and massages to help every nerve in your body relax. The beauty treatment and pleasant music in each room take you away to a world where you can truly relax and not think of any troubles. Come over and let the attendants work their magic into your nerves.

Angsana Spa

Address: Japan, 〒650-0002 Hyogo, Kobe, Chuo Ward, Kitanocho, 1 Chome, ANAクラウンプラザホテル神戸12階

Website: Angsana Spa

Opening hours: 12pm - 8pm (daily)

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14. Experience tranquility at Arima Onsen hot springs

Hyogo Kobe Arima Onsen 兵庫 神戸 有馬温泉 http://www.japanhoppers.com/kansai/kobe/kanko/923/ Arima Onsen (hot springs) is one...

Posted by Travel Guide Japan Hoppers English on Tuesday, 15 December 2015

Famous for its hot springs, Arima Onsen is a small town in Kobe which lies in the mountainous settings of Mount Rokko. The city is small and can be explored on foot. Walk through the narrow streets and bask in the view of the surrounding mountains, shrines, and temples. There are many hot spring sources in the town, basically of two types. There is the Kinsen “gold water” for good skin, and the Ginsen “silver water” for curing various joint ailments. In Arima Onsen, there is also a small hot spring museum.

Arima Onsen hot springs

Address: Arimacho, Kita-ku, Kita, Kobe 651-1401, Hyogo Prefecture

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15. Try authentic Japanese cuisine at Tor Road Steak Aoyama (from USD 170.0)


One of the many reasons to come to Kobe is for its beef, and Tor Road Steak Aoyama rewards you with an exquisite taste of this Kobe delicacy. This small restaurant has been in business since 1963, catering efficiently to its customers. You have to make a reservation as they do not accept walk-ins. The setting is intimate, the chefs are entertaining, and the family explains everything to you while putting on a show. The Kobe beef does not disappoint as it is soft, juicy, and downright awesome.

Tor Road Steak Aoyama

Address: 2 Chome-14-5 Shimoyamatedori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0011, Japan

Website: Tor Road Steak Aoyama

Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 9pm (closed on Wed)

Price: from 94 USD

byFood experience

1) Luxurious Kobe beef teppanyaki course at Steakhouse En

Of course, Tor Road Steak Aoyama isn’t the only place in Kobe that offers succulent beef dishes. There are plenty of other restaurants around the city that serve juicy and delectable Kobe beef. Should you wish to continue your Kobe beef conquest, set your sights on Steakhouse En, another top-tier steak restaurant.

Located in the upscale Motomachi neighborhood, Steakhouse En is best known for its multi-course teppanyaki meal. Guests here are even treated to a one-of-a-kind show where the restaurant’s head chef prepares juicy meat cuts on hot iron griddles right in front of you, enhancing the culinary experience.

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Luxurious Kobe Beef Teppanyaki Course in Kobe En Steakhouse

Duration: 2hours

5 reviews

16. Soak in the nightlife vibes at Midnight Bar


In Kobe, the night is busting with activities just like the day. Midnight Bar is the ideal hangout spot for an evening with friends to drink and have lots of laughter. Located just a two-minute walk from Sannomiya Station, this bar is easily accessible. They serve great hot dogs and a nice variety of beers, cocktails, and wine. If you are looking for somewhere to enjoy natural conversations in English over a few drinks, then this is your place. They also serve craft beer and kiwi.

Midnight Bar

Address: 5th Floor 1 Chome-21-15 Kitanagasadōri, Chūō-ku, Kōbe-shi, Hyogo 650-0012, Japan

Website: Midnight Bar

Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 6pm - 2am; Sun - Thu: 6pm - 12am

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17. Visit Nankin-machi for a true tourist experience

Nankinmachi, Kobe in 2013-8-11 No,9
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mti used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Nankin-machi is Kobe’s Chinatown, paying tribute to Nanjing, China’s former capital. Located on the south of Motomachi station, it is made up of two main streets which meet at a plaza at the center. Nankin-machi houses a Chinese community with a host of Chinese restaurants, shops, and even a Chinese temple dedicated to Guan Yu. Explore various Chinese delicacies in this Chinatown like Manju (steamed buns), noodles, and tapioca. Since the area is compact, you can explore it on foot in less than two hours.

Nankin-machi

Address: 1 Chome-3-18 Sakaemachidori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0023, Japan

Website: Nankin-machi

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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18. Spend an eventful day at Kobe Animal Kingdom

Capybara, Kobe Animal Kingdom
Source: Photo by Flickr user lasta29 used under CC BY 2.0

The best part of Kobe Animal Kingdom is not just watching the various animals but getting to interact actively with them, feeding them, and generally having a good time. This is an animal and flower park which features an open-air aviary, a botanical garden with ponds of lilies, and an open area for larger animals. The animals here are friendly and not especially dangerous. You can watch the kangaroos play, pet the capybaras, or feed animals from the chow dispensers around.

Kobe Animal Kingdom

Address: 7 Chome-1-9 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0047, Japan

Website: Kobe Animal Kingdom

Opening hours: 10am - 5:30pm (daily)

Price: 13 USD

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19. Soothe your soul at Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden


Sitting near the peak of Mount Rokko, at an altitude of 865 m (2837 ft) is Japan’s oldest botanical garden. Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden houses over 1,500 varieties of alpine plants, flowers, and cold-region plants. These plants are grown in conditions very close to their natural conditions. Many plants are seasonal, but you can enjoy the view of blooming flowers all year round. The autumn foliage and cherry blossom are particularly beautiful to watch as you walk through the well laid out paths.

Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden

Address: Kitarokko-4512-150 Rokkosancho, Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 657-0101, Japan

Website: Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

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20. Gaze at the contemporary exhibits of Hyōgo Prefectural Museum of Art

Hyogo prefectural museum of art
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user 663highland used under CC BY 2.5

Opened in 2002, Hyōgo Prefectural Museum of Art is an art gallery in Nada-Ku, Kobe that displays both modern and contemporary art. The exhibition features artists whose works have strong ties to Hyogo as the museum was one of the memorials built for the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake. There are other foreign sculptures, paintings, and prints displayed in the museum. There is also ample space for live music and other performing arts in the museum. Visit, explore, and enjoy real works of art in this incredible museum.

Hyōgo Prefectural Museum of Art

Address: 1 Chome-1-1 Wakinohamakaigandori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 651-0073, Japan

Website: Hyōgo Prefectural Museum of Art

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 5 USD

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21. Treat your eyes to the greenery of Sorakuen Garden


This historic garden is regarded as a National Scenic Spot. Completed in 1911, Sorakuen Garden is located in Chūō-Ku, Kobe. Over 4,000 azaleas bloom from April through to May in this garden. This is one of the things it is famous for. The garden is built according to Chisen Kaiyu style, featuring a pond at the center. It also features the Former Hassam House and the Former Kodera’s Stable. You will also appreciate the Western buildings which were built in the Meiji era on the grounds of this garden.

Sorakuen Garden

Address: 5 Chome-3-1 Nakayamatedori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0004, Japan

Website: Sorakuen Garden

Opening hours: Fri - Wed: 9am - 5pm (closed on Thu)

Price: 3 USD

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22. Spot a wide variety of marine animals at Suma Aqualife Park Kobe

Suma aqualife park, Kobe, Japan (4159805936)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user pelican used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Suma Aqualife Park Kobe has the feel of a theme park and an aquarium. This park, located very close to the Suma beach takes you into the aquatic kingdom. There are three floors, one of which has a pool from which you can watch fishes, small sharks and even a sea turtle swim by. The park also has an underwater tunnel through which you can watch the dangerous piranhas live their exciting life underwater. In the amphitheater, you can watch the dolphins display their best skills before cheering crowds.

Suma Aqualife Park Kobe

Address: 1 Chome-3-5 Wakamiyacho, Suma Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 654-0049, Japan

Website: Suma Aqualife Park Kobe

Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)

Price: 12 USD

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23. Catch a game of baseball at Koshien Stadium

Posted by Japan is Hyogo on Friday, 24 July 2015

Watching a game at Koshien Stadium comes with the feel of the game and the touch of history. Opened in 1924, this stadium pays tribute to memorable moments of sports history in Japan. It is one of the country’s oldest baseball stadiums, filled with old, exciting baseball stories. Also, it was built for national high school baseball tournaments and still preserves the history of the Hanshin Tigers baseball team. Get your baseball cap and catch a game in this historic baseball stadium.

Koshien Stadium

Address: 1-82 Koshiencho, Nishinomiya, Hyogo 663-8152, Japan

Website: Koshien Stadium

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24. Offer your prayers at Nofukuji Temple


This Buddhist temple was founded in 805 by a monk named Saichō in Kita Sakasegawa, Kobe. Saichō also built a statue of Yakushi Nyorai in the temple. You will also find a giant Hyogo Daibutsu (Buddha statue) on the temple’s grounds. It is a religious attraction that draws thousands of people to the temple. The temple hosts an annual festival on May 9 and 10 called Hyogo Daibutsu Matsuri (Day of Enlightenment), which attracts a lot of crowds from the local community. Don’t miss the sights of the event if you are visiting around this time.

Nofukuji Temple

Address: 1-39 Kitasakasegawacho, Hyogo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 652-0837, Japan

Website: Nofukuji Temple

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)

Price: Free

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25. See one of the oldest and most infamous shrines, Ikuta Shrine (from USD 150.0)


The busy lanes of Sannomiya hosts the famous Shinto shrine, Ikuta Shrine. It is one of the oldest shrine (1800 years old) in Japan, now surrounded by modern constructions. Take a trip to this iconic shrine, which is considered as the guardian of health and resurrection. Get ready to pick up some bracelets close to the cedar tree which are believed to bring love and happy ending. The small pond on-site with ducks and autumn colors around is very calmly to sit by and watch.

Ikuta Shrine

Address: 1 Chome-2-1 Shimoyamatedori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0011, Japan

Website: Ikuta Shrine

Opening hours: 8am - 6:30pm (daily)

byFood experience

1) Kobe beef and cultural experience around the city

Wondering where to go after visiting the Ikuta Shrine? This experience may just have the answer to your question. Curious tourists get to uncover more of Kobe’s unique culture by traversing through the Kitano district. Kitano features a hodgepodge of influences from different parts of the globe, reminding travelers of the city’s reputation as one of the first in Japan to welcome foreign trade. From Western-inspired houses to various mosques and churches, there’s certainly so much diversity to find in this area.

After a fulfilling stroll, head over to one of Kobe’s most popular steakhouses and enjoy a splendid beef-grilling performance by a seasoned chef.

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Kobe Beef and Cultural City Experience in Kobe

Duration: 4hours

1 review

Explore the rich heritage of Kobe and admire its beautiful landscape

Kobe boasts of many attractions for the tourists to see. From enjoying the beauty of the outdoors to exploring history in museums or admiring technological wonders, there are a lot of things to do in Kobe, Hyogo. The city keeps you engaged while touring and feeds you with the best steak you can ever find anywhere in the world with the famed Kobe beef. If you want to explore the best of Asia and return with lots of souvenirs and memories, then head for Kobe, Hyogo.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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James Kure is an ardent writer from a very humble background. He loves writing about the world’s top travel destinations, especially the Scandinavian and Japanese regions. When not writing, James...Read more

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