Shioya Village Discovery: Private Shore Tour from Kobe Port
Active
4h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Escape the bustle of the city and discover the charm of Shioya, a peaceful fishing village near Kobe. On this 4-hour private shore tour, you’ll explore authentic Japanese daily life with a friendly local guide while meeting residents, tasting specialties, and strolling through historic streets.
Begin at the harbor for photogenic views of Mt. Rokko, Awaji Island, and the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge. Learn how Japanese nori (seaweed) is grown and enjoy a tasting at a local family shop. Walk through Shioya’s narrow streets to discover a temple, a shrine, and the local shopping street. Visit a 100-year-old barber shop, a tatami factory, and the heritage Guggenheim House. Along the way, sample snacks and drinks while engaging with the welcoming townspeople for a truly authentic experience.
Available options
Private Tour for 3 passengers
Private transportation: Includes private transportation to and from the Kobe Cruise Port.<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 1 passenger
Private transportation: Includes private transportation to and from the Kobe Cruise Port.<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 6 passengers
Private transportation: Includes private transportation to and from the Kobe Cruise Port.<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 4 passengers
Private transportation: Includes private transportation to and from the Kobe Cruise Port.<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
Driver-Only Tour
No guide, fixed 7:30 AM pickup: Private transportation only. No guide, no entry tickets. Available on Tuesdays with a fixed 7:30 AM pick-up.<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 5 passengers
Private transportation: Includes private transportation to and from the Kobe Cruise Port.<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 2 passengers
Private transportation: Includes private transportation to and from the Kobe Cruise Port.<br/>Private guide: enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Pick up and dropp off at your cruise ship terminal
Professional local English-speaking tour guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your guide and set off in the comfort of your private car toward Shioya, a picturesque fishing town nestled between the mountains and the sea.
2
Stop 2
Shioya Harbor: Capture stunning coastal views of Mt. Rokko, Awaji Island, and the famous Akashi Kaikyō Bridge. Learn about the centuries-old tradition of cultivating Japanese nori (seaweed) and sample freshly made products from a local fishing family.
3
Stop 3
Stroll through narrow lanes lined with small shops, stopping at a peaceful temple and shrine. Immerse yourself in authentic daily life as you walk along the bustling shopping street and see how locals live beyond the tourist trail.
4
Stop 4
Step back in time at a 100-year-old barber shop, watch traditional craftsmanship at a tatami factory, and admire the elegant architecture of the heritage Guggenheim House, a hidden gem of Shioya.
5
Stop 5
Snacks & Conversations: Taste regional snacks and drinks while enjoying warm interactions with friendly residents who are eager to share their stories and traditions.
6
Stop 6
Relax and reflect on your unique experience as you head back. Return with lasting memories of Shioya’s authentic charm.
What's not included
Entry fees or meals
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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