Explore Kobe: Kitano Ijinkan-Gai & City Highlights Private Tour

Kobe , Japan

Explore Kobe: Kitano Ijinkan-Gai & City Highlights Private Tour

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About this experience

Enjoy a private, exclusive tour with your own local guide. Embark on a vibrant journey through Kobe with our comprehensive sightseeing tour, perfectly crafted to showcase the city’s eclectic charm and rich history. Begin at the picturesque Kitano Ijinkan-Gai, where quaint, historic Western-style houses reveal Kobe’s cosmopolitan past. Venture next to Sannomiya Center Gai Shopping Street, a bustling hub where fashion and gourmet food meet. Immerse yourself in the colorful atmosphere of Kobe Chinatown (Nankin-machi), famed for its authentic culinary delights and festive spirit. Relax at Kobe Harborland, enjoying its scenic waterfront and lively entertainment options. Conclude your exploration at Kobe Station, ideally situated for further adventures or a peaceful journey home, making this tour an unforgettable slice of Kobe life.

Please note: The availability and accessibility of attractions may vary based on time of day and crowd conditions, ensuring each visit is a unique experience.

Available options

French guided tour

Explore Kobe: Kitano Ijinkan-Gai and Vibrant City Highlights

Russian guided tour

Italian guided tour

Spanish guided tour

What's included

Professional local guide services

Detailed itinerary

This charming area features a collection of Western-style houses built by foreign merchants in the 19th century, offering a unique glimpse into Kobe's cosmopolitan history.

The heart of Kobe's retail, this bustling street is perfect for shopping enthusiasts looking to explore a range of local and international brands.

Stop 3

A vibrant neighborhood known for its authentic Chinese cuisine, colorful festivals, and rich history as one of Japan's major Chinatowns.

Stop 4

A lively waterfront district offering shopping, dining, and entertainment with stunning views of the bay, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a romantic evening.

Stop 5

Not just a transportation hub, Kobe Station is a starting point for exploring the city, conveniently located near many of Kobe's attractions.

What's not included

Transport fee if we take public transportation (5$/person, not mandatory)

Available languages

Guide guide

RU EN IT FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We will meet by Kitano Ijinkan-Gai next to フィオーレ−ＷｅｄｄｉｎｇＦｌｏｗｅｒ.

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.