top things to do in Kobe japan

Introduction : Top Things to Do in Kobe, Japan

Hey there, fellow travel enthusiast! So you’re thinking about visiting Kobe? Great choice! This gem of a city nestled between mountains and sea often gets overshadowed by Tokyo and Kyoto, but trust me, Kobe has its own unique charm that’s absolutely worth experiencing.

I’ve spent some time exploring this beautiful port city, and let me tell you, there’s a whole lot more to Kobe than just its famous beef (though that’s definitely a highlight!). From breathtaking mountain views to fascinating historical sites and mouthwatering culinary experiences, Kobe has something for every type of traveler.

Ready to dive into what makes Kobe special? Let’s walk through the top things you absolutely can’t miss when visiting this incredible Japanese city!

Feast on Authentic Kobe Beef

Come on, did you really think we could start anywhere else? Kobe beef is world-famous for a reason! This incredibly marbled, tender beef comes from Tajima strain Wagyu cattle raised in Hyogo Prefecture, and eating it in its hometown is an experience you simply can’t replicate elsewhere.

For the ultimate Kobe beef experience, head to Steak Land in the Sannomiya district or Wakkoqu in Shin-Kobe. These restaurants offer teppanyaki-style dining where skilled chefs cook the beef right in front of you. Yes, it’s pricey (expect to pay around $100-200 per person), but honestly? Worth every yen for that melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor.

Not ready to splurge on a full steak dinner? You can find more affordable Kobe beef experiences like beef skewers at Kobe Beef Steak Ishida on Ikuta Road or even Kobe beef burgers at various cafes around the city.

Explore Kitano-cho (The Former Foreign Settlement)

Ever wondered what happens when Western and Japanese architecture have a beautiful cultural crossover? Kitano-cho is your answer! After Japan opened its ports to foreign trade in the late 19th century, this charming hillside neighborhood became home to foreign merchants and diplomats who built beautiful Western-style mansions (called “ijinkan”) with Japanese influences.

Many of these houses are now museums open to the public. My personal favorite is the Weathercock House (Urokoya), which has become something of a Kobe symbol with its distinctive weathervane. The England House and Moegi House are also definitely worth checking out.

After exploring the houses, take some time to wander the sloping streets lined with cafes, boutiques, and bakeries. The area has a distinctly European feel that creates a fascinating contrast with traditional Japanese elements.

Take in the View from Nunobiki Herb Garden

Looking for a breathtaking view of Kobe? The Nunobiki Herb Garden on Mount Rokko is the spot for you. This is Japan’s largest herb garden, home to about 75,000 herbs and flowers across roughly 40 acres of land.

The best part? You get to ride the Shin-Kobe Ropeway (cable car) to reach it! The 10-minute journey offers stunning panoramic views of the city and Osaka Bay. Once at the garden, you can wander through different themed sections, including a gorgeous rose garden, fragrant lavender fields, and a glass house filled with tropical plants.

There’s also a cute little herb shop where you can buy herb-infused products and a restaurant serving dishes made with herbs from the garden. The garden is particularly beautiful during sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle below – perfect for that Instagram shot you’ve been waiting to take! 🙂

Visit Kobe Port and Harborland

Kobe’s identity is deeply connected to its harbor, and the Harborland area perfectly blends the city’s maritime history with modern entertainment. This waterfront shopping and entertainment district is especially magical in the evening when the whole area lights up.

Meriken Park, located in the harbor area, is home to the iconic Kobe Port Tower with its distinctive red lattice design. For about 700 yen, you can go up to the observation deck for a 360-degree view of the city and bay. Nearby, you’ll also find the Kobe Maritime Museum and the striking Earthquake Memorial.

For shopping and dining, head to the Mosaic mall, which has a great selection of restaurants with harbor views. And if you’re a fan of nighttime cityscapes, the view of the illuminated Kobe Ohashi Bridge is something you won’t want to miss.

Soak in a Hot Spring at Arima Onsen

Need a break from city exploring? Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns, is just a 30-minute drive from central Kobe. This charming onsen town is famous for its two types of hot spring water: the “Kinsen” (golden water) rich in iron and salt, and the “Ginsen” (silver water) containing radium and carbonate.

Many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in Arima offer day-use plans for their hot spring baths if you’re not staying overnight. Taiko no Yu and Kin no Yu are popular public bath houses that give you the onsen experience without the hefty price tag of a ryokan stay.

After your soak, take time to explore the quaint streets of Arima, lined with traditional buildings, souvenir shops, and cafes. The area has a completely different vibe from downtown Kobe – it feels like stepping back in time to old Japan.

Sample Sake in the Nada District

Did you know that Kobe’s Nada district is one of Japan’s top sake-producing regions? The area’s ideal water quality, climate, and rice-growing conditions have made it famous for premium sake production since the 17th century.

The Nada Sake Route includes multiple breweries where you can learn about the sake-making process and, of course, sample various types of sake. Some standout breweries include Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum (which is free to enter) and Kiku-Masamune Sake Brewery Museum.

Even if you’re not a big sake fan (though you might become one after this visit!), the traditional architecture of the breweries and the cultural insights make this area worth exploring. Many breweries also offer sake-flavored snacks and ice cream – the sake ice cream is surprisingly delicious!

Marvel at the Night View from Mount Rokko

Mount Rokko stands 931 meters tall behind the city, and the view from its summit is considered one of Japan’s three best night views (along with Nagasaki and Hakodate). The sprawling urban landscape below, framed by the dark sea, creates what locals call the “million-dollar view.”

To get there, you can take the Rokko Cable Car followed by a bus to the top. Besides the observation deck, Mount Rokko offers other attractions like the Rokko Garden Terrace, a botanical garden, and even a music box museum.

If you’re feeling fancy, you could also have dinner at one of the restaurants at the top while enjoying the twinkling cityscape below. The area is popular with couples – and for good reason! There’s something undeniably romantic about that spectacular night view.

Experience History at Kobe Chinatown (Nankinmachi)

Kobe’s Chinatown, known as Nankinmachi, may be compact compared to Yokohama’s or Nagasaki’s, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in vibrant energy and delicious food options! Established in the late 19th century, this area is home to around 100 Chinese restaurants and shops.

The best way to experience Nankinmachi? Eat your way through it! Try the steamed buns (especially the pork buns), manju (sweet bean-filled buns), and Chinese-style ramen. The street food here is particularly good, with vendors selling everything from dumplings to egg tarts.

Timing your visit during Chinese New Year would be amazing if you can – the area comes alive with colorful decorations, dragon dances, and special festivities that showcase the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage.

Final Thoughts

Kobe might not be on every traveler’s Japan itinerary, but IMO, that’s what makes it special – you get to experience authentic Japanese culture without the overwhelming tourist crowds of Tokyo or Kyoto. The city perfectly balances modern urban attractions with traditional Japanese experiences and natural beauty.

Whether you’re there for the world-class beef, the stunning mountain views, the historical sites, or the relaxing hot springs, Kobe offers a diverse range of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. And who knows? You might just find yourself planning a return trip before you’ve even left!

Have you been to Kobe before? What was your favorite spot? If you haven’t been yet, which of these attractions would you visit first? Whatever you choose, I promise you’re in for an amazing experience in this underrated Japanese gem!