Kobe , Japan

Kobe Culinary Tour with a Chef!

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About this experience

As a chef, your guide is dedicated to unveiling the essence and origins behind Japan's extraordinary culinary heritage.

Join us on an unforgettable tour in Kobe! Savor the best miso gyoza, marvel at the stunning views from Rokko Garden Terrace, and relax in the rejuvenating waters of Arima Onsen. Conclude your journey with a luxurious Kobe beef teppanyaki dinner. This is a culinary and cultural adventure you won't want to miss!

Available options

Kobe Culinary Tour with a Chef!

What's included

Lunch (food and drinks)

Private Tour

Your guide is a chef!

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Try the best gyozas in the city! Kobe is known for its deeply rooted chinese influence and we will get to try the famous miso gyoza (dumpling), the city's take on a Japanese staple. Please note that the restaurant may change based on availability.

Let yourself be awed by the view from Rokko Garden Terrace and enjoy the ropeway ride above the mountain's forest. Experience breathtaking vistas.

Experience ultimate relaxation at Arima Onsen in Kobe. Immerse yourself in renowned hot springs, bathing in the famous gold and silver mineral waters. Rejuvenate your body and soul amidst tranquil surroundings and exceptional traditional Japanese hospitality.

Stop 4

Indulge in a full Kobe beef course at one of Kobe's most iconic teppanyaki restaurants, savoring each tender bite in an unforgettable dining experience that showcases this world-renowned delicacy. Please note that the restaurant may change based on availability (will still be with a similar standard Kobe beef course).

What's not included

Dinner at Wakkoqu (Kobe beef): if you wish to stay for dinner, our guide can accompany you

Private transport not included but can be arranged on demand (48h notice required).

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements, please indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking.

If you wish to stay for dinner, our guide can accompany you. Please also cover guide's food/drinks.

Meeting point

Meet at the JR Sannomiya station, in front of the JR ticket office.
Your guide will carry a sign saying 'MAKASETE'

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.