Kobe: Maiko Scenic and Cultural Highlights Guided Tour

Kobe , Japan

Kobe: Maiko Scenic and Cultural Highlights Guided Tour

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About this experience

This isn’t just a sightseeing tour—it’s a journey through time, architecture, and natural beauty. What makes this experience unique is the perfect blend of breathtaking coastal scenery, cutting-edge engineering, and fascinating cultural heritage, all guided by a knowledgeable local expert.

You’ll not only walk inside one of the world’s longest suspension bridge, peering 50 meters down through a glass floor, but also explore a historic seaside villa once visited by Sun Yat-sen, one of Asia’s most influential historical figures. Along the way, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the Akashi Strait, feel the sea breeze on your face, and gain insights into how Maiko’s landscape has evolved from poetic inspiration to modern marvel.

Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique adventure in Kobe, this tour offers an immersive, unforgettable experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Available options

Kobe: Maiko Scenic and Cultural Highlights Guided Tour

What's included

Visit to Ijokaku historical villa

Walk along the promenade beneath the bridge

Visit to the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge facility

Guided tour of Maiko's scenic and cultural highlights

Detailed itinerary

Get ready for a thrilling and unforgettable experience at the Maiko Marine Promenade, a unique walkway built beneath the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge— one of the world’s longest suspension bridge. This facility lets you explore the interior of the bridge structure and walk above the ocean at a height of 50 meters. One of its highlights is the glass-floored observation deck, where you can look straight down to the waves below—perfect for thrill-seekers and photographers alike! As you stroll along the promenade, enjoy panoramic views of the Akashi Strait and Awaji Island, and marvel at the bridge’s massive scale and engineering excellence. Whether you’re interested in architecture or just love a good view, this is a must-visit spot on your Kobe adventure.

Stop 2

Step into history at Ijokaku, a beautifully preserved seaside villa that blends architectural elegance with deep cultural heritage. Built in the early 20th century by a Chinese merchant, this striking octagonal structure sits in a scenic spot with the Akashi Strait and bridge in the background. Ijokaku is especially known for its unique mix of Western and Chinese design elements, featuring traditional Western interiors with touches of Chinese craftsmanship. It is also famously connected to Sun Yat-sen, a prominent figure in Chinese modern history, who once visited this villa. Today, it serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into both architectural innovation and the international ties that once flourished in this area. A serene and culturally rich stop, Ijokaku adds historical depth to your visit to Maiko.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Transportation to and from Maiko Station

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meeting point: In front of the ticket gate at JR Maiko Station. Your guide will be waiting for you with a yellow sign panel. Please refer to the map for the exact location.

About Kobe

Kobe is a vibrant port city known for its stunning harbor views, diverse architecture, and world-class cuisine. It's a blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern urban living, with a rich history as an international trading hub.

Top Attractions

Kobe Port Tower

A iconic red tower offering panoramic views of Kobe's harbor and skyline. It's a symbol of the city and a popular photo spot.

Architecture 1-2 hours ¥800

Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown)

One of the largest and most vibrant Chinatowns in Japan, filled with colorful shops, restaurants, and street food stalls.

Cultural 1-3 hours Free to explore, varies for food and shopping

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden and Ropeway

A beautiful garden with a variety of herbs and flowers, accessible by a scenic ropeway ride offering stunning views of Kobe.

Nature 2-3 hours ¥1,600 (includes ropeway and garden entry)

Kobe beef

Kobe beef is one of Japan's most famous and luxurious culinary delights, known for its tenderness and rich flavor. It's a must-try when visiting Kobe.

Cultural 1-2 hours (for a meal) Expensive (¥10,000-¥30,000 per person)

Arima Onsen

One of Japan's oldest and most famous hot spring resorts, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience in a beautiful mountain setting.

Religious Half day to overnight ¥1,000-¥5,000 (varies by bathhouse and ryokan)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kobe beef

Tender, marbled beef from Tajima cattle, known for its rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Dinner Contains beef

Ikayaki (grilled squid)

A Kobe specialty, this grilled squid is seasoned with soy sauce and served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Snack Seafood, gluten (soy sauce)

Kobe-style sushi

A local twist on traditional sushi, featuring fresh seafood and unique toppings.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, gluten (soy sauce)

Menki crab

A popular winter delicacy, Menki crab is known for its sweet and tender meat.

Dinner Seafood

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Rokko Mountains Mountain biking Ropeway ride to Nunobiki Herb Garden Onsen (hot spring) visits Tea ceremonies Scenic harbor cruises Temple and shrine visits Traditional crafts workshops

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers vibrant foliage.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese, Korean
English: Moderately spoken (in tourist areas)

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60Hz (varies by region)Hz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Kobe is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, travelers should always be aware of their surroundings and take basic precautions to protect their belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid sharing your PIN
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night

Getting there

By air

Kobe Airport • 12 km from city center
Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 30 km from city center

By train

Shin-Kobe Station, Sannomiya Station

By bus

Sannomiya Bus Terminal, Kobe Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The subway system is efficient, clean, and easy to navigate. It's the best way to get around the city quickly.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sannomiya Kitano-cho Nada

Day trips

Himeji Castle

30 km from Kobe • Half day to full day

One of Japan's most famous and well-preserved feudal castles, known for its elegant white exterior and beautiful gardens.

Osaka

30 km from Kobe • Full day

A vibrant, bustling city known for its modern architecture, historic sites, and delicious street food. Osaka offers a mix of traditional and contemporary attractions.

Koyasan

50 km from Kobe • Full day to overnight

A sacred mountain and the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. Koyasan is home to numerous temples, monasteries, and beautiful gardens.

Festivals

Kobe Luminarie • Early December (dates vary) Kobe Port Festival • Early May (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Nunobiki Herb Garden and Ropeway for stunning views of Kobe and beautiful gardens.
Try Kobe beef at a high-end restaurant for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Explore the historic Kitano-cho neighborhood for a glimpse into Kobe's international past and beautiful views of the harbor.
Take a day trip to Himeji Castle, one of Japan's most famous and well-preserved feudal castles.
Visit the Kobe Luminarie festival in December for a breathtaking light display along the harbor.