Kobe Explore Top Highlights by Private Walking Tour
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8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the Charm of Kobe – Private Walking Tour
Uncover the unique blend of tradition, nature, and modern elegance with a fully customized private walking tour of Kobe. Whether you're interested in historic sake breweries, scenic harbor views, European-style architecture, or peaceful gardens, this experience is tailored to your personal interests. Enjoy the freedom to choose your own meeting time and location, and we’ll help design the perfect itinerary—from visiting landmarks like Kobe Harborland and Himeji Castle (optional day trip), to exploring charming neighborhoods like Kitano-cho or relaxing at Nunobiki Herb Garden. We’re also happy to assist with advance reservations for local Kobe beef dining or special experiences. Ideal for solo travelers, couples, families, or small groups looking for a relaxed yet enriching day in this beautiful port city!
Available options
Kobe Explore Top Highlights by Private Walking Tour
What's included
Private Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is widely considered Japan’s most spectacular castle for its imposing size, well-preserved structure, and elegant white appearance. Known as the "White Heron Castle," it offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s feudal past with stunning architecture and panoramic views from the top floors.
2
Stop 2
Step into the world of traditional Japanese sake brewing at the Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum. Housed in a former sake brewery, the museum showcases historical tools, informative displays, and offers free tastings of Hakutsuru’s renowned sake. A must-visit for those interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship.
3
Located on the slopes of Mount Rokko, the Nunobiki Herb Garden is one of Japan’s largest herb gardens. Accessible by ropeway, it features beautifully landscaped gardens with over 200 kinds of herbs and flowers, scenic walking paths, a fragrance museum, and stunning views over Kobe city.
4
Stop 4
Kobe Harborland is a lively waterfront area filled with shopping malls, restaurants, cafes, and entertainment options. With views of Kobe Port Tower and Meriken Park, it’s a great place to relax, dine, or enjoy a romantic evening by the sea.
5
Kitanocho is a charming historic district known for its Western-style mansions called Ijinkan, built by foreign merchants during the Meiji and Taisho eras. Visitors can explore beautifully preserved residences that showcase a unique blend of Western and Japanese architectural styles.
What's not included
The entrance fees depends on the sites and the numbers of sites the clients choose to visit
Meals
Bottled water
Snacks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Transportation (Bus, Train, Taxi ...)
Meeting point
Once your booking is complete, we’ll get in touch via WhatsApp to arrange the itinerary and meeting 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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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