Kobe, famous for its "million-dollar night view," is a city area where you can enjoy the exotic atmosphere of Kitano Ijinkan-gai and Nankinmachi.
Arima Onsen, one of the three oldest hot springs in Japan, is located in the northern part of the city, and visitors can enjoy bathing in this hot spring.
Kobe is famous for its "million dollar night view. The Rokko mountain range overlooking the city has some must-see viewing spots, such as Mt.
There is also the Ijinkan-gai in Kitano, where Westerners once resided, and Nankinmachi, formed by Asians, where you can experience the exotic atmosphere of the city. Motomachi and Sannomiya are lined with apparel stores, and the seaside area is filled with date spots such as Kobe Port Tower.
Arima Onsen, one of the three oldest hot springs in Japan, is located in the northern part of the city and attracts many tourists of all ages and both sexes.
To enjoy sightseeing in Kobe and Arima (Arima Onsen)
Kobe is famous for the night view of the city center, which was once called the "million-dollar night view. The Rokko mountain range overlooking the city is dotted with observation spots, such as Suku-seidai on Mt.
The port city of Kobe is also home to Kitano Ijinkan-gai, where Westerners once settled, and Nankinmachi, formed by Asians, where visitors can enjoy an exotic atmosphere. On the ocean side, there are Meriken Park and Rokko Island facing Kobe Port, which are busy date courses with views of the illuminated port, Kobe Port Tower, and Harbor Land.
Unusually for a large city, Kobe still retains a rich natural environment, with the Nunobiki Stream near JR Shin-Kobe Station, known for Nunobiki Falls, and the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden near the summit of Mt. Arima Onsen, one of the three oldest hot springs in Japan, is located in the northern part of the city, attracting many tourists of all ages and both sexes.
The Suma district, the setting of the Tale of Genji, Ikuta Shrine and Nagata Shrine, both with histories dating back to Empress Jingu, and other historical sites are abundant here.
History of Kobe and Arima (Arima Onsen)
During the Heian period (794-1185), the city of Kobe had a port called Owadadomari, which served as a strategic point for shipping routes between the western part of Japan and the capital. Later, Owadadomari was renovated by Taira no Kiyomori as a hub for trade between Japan and the Sung Dynasty, and continued to develop until the Muromachi period (1336-1573), changing its name to Hyogo-no-tsu.
The area was once devastated by the Onin War, but when Toyotomi Hideyoshi united the country, Hyogo no Tsu regained its momentum as a logistics center.
After the opening of the country to the outside world, the port of Kobe was developed, and the influx of people and goods from overseas led to the modernization of Kobe.
After the Pacific War, the city achieved rapid growth, but in 1995, the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake hit the city of Kobe and caused extensive damage. However, the citizens of Kobe worked together to rebuild the city, and today, the city has regained its nightscape, which is said to be worth 10 million dollars.
Local Gourmet, Food Culture, and Specialties of Kobe and Arima (Arima Onsen)
Since the port city of Kobe was opened to foreign cultures in the Meiji period (1868-1912), many Western-style restaurants and Chinese restaurants are located in the city center. If you want to enjoy the tastes of Kobe's local people, look up the names of the restaurants in travel magazines or on the Internet before you visit.
In the Motomachi and Nankinmachi areas, Kobe's representative gourmet town, you can also enjoy buying and eating pork buns and comparing different famous gyoza restaurants.
B-grade gourmet foods include "Bokkake Soba-meshi," a local dish of beef tendon and konnyaku boiled in a sweet and spicy sauce and served over soba noodles, and Kobe croquettes, which can be purchased at butcher shops and other stores.
Kobe beef, the pride of Kobe, is a premium ingredient that should be enjoyed as a steak or grilled on an iron plate. Kobe also has abundant fishing grounds in the Seto Inland Sea, so you can enjoy fresh seafood such as sea bream, sea eel, and iidako (octopus) at various restaurants in the city.
While restaurants line the streets, Kobe is also home to many nationally renowned confectionary shops and confectionary manufacturers. Once you have your fill of the local delicacy of squid roe, a popular souvenir, why not take a stroll through the city for western-style confectionaries?
Arima Onsen is a historic hot spring resort located in Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Renowned for its long history and distinctive mineral-rich waters, it is counted among Japan’s oldest hot spring destinations, alongside Dogo Onsen and Shirahama Onsen. Arima is mentioned in The Pillow Book, a celebrated work of Japanese literature written by Sei Shonagon around the year 1000. During the Mur...»
Mount Rokko is a mountain range in southeastern Hyogo Prefecture, extending from the western outskirts of Kobe toward the north and east. Part of Setonaikai National Park, it is renowned for its natural beauty, hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints, and cultural attractions. The mountain range is also recognized as one of Japan’s New 100 Famous Mountains, the 300 Famous Japanese Mountains, and the 5...»
The Kobe Kitano Ijinkan District is one of Kobe's most distinctive historic neighborhoods, famous for its elegant Western-style houses and international atmosphere. Located on elevated ground at the northern end of Tor Road, the district offers views over Kobe Port and the surrounding city. Many of its historic buildings now house boutiques, cafés, restaurants, galleries, and other attractions, al...»
Nankinmachi, Kobe's Chinatown, is a popular food and shopping district in Chūō Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Spanning the area around Motomachi-dōri and Sakaemachi-dōri, it is known for its colorful Chinese-inspired streetscape, lively atmosphere, and tempting selection of Chinese food. Although Nankinmachi is not an official administrative place name, it is widely recognized as the name of Kobe'...»
Kobe Suma Sea World is a modern aquarium in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, where education and entertainment come together in an engaging experience known as “edutainment.” Visitors can discover the fascinating world of marine life through spectacular animal performances, interactive exhibits, and opportunities to observe aquatic creatures up close. One of its biggest attractions is its orca performance,...»
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is one of Japan’s most impressive engineering landmarks, connecting Kobe City on the main island of Honshu with Awaji Island in Hyogo Prefecture. Spanning the Akashi Strait, this enormous suspension bridge measures 3,911 meters in total length, with a central span of 1,991 meters. It forms part of the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway, one of the three major routes linking Honshu a...»
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, located in Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, is one of Japan's largest herb gardens. Set high in the mountains at an elevation of approximately 400 meters, this beautiful destination features seasonal flowers, aromatic herbs, and spectacular panoramic views of Kobe's cityscape and harbor. Its combination of natural beauty, relaxing gardens, and scenic mountain surroundin...»
Kikuseidai Observation Deck is a scenic viewpoint near the summit of Mount Maya, part of the Rokko mountain range in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Situated at an elevation of approximately 700 meters, it offers sweeping views of Kobe, the surrounding Hanshin area, and Osaka Bay. The panorama is often described as a “10-million-dollar night view,” and Kikuseidai is celebrated as one of Japan's Three Grea...»
Kobe Municipal Suma Rikyu Park is a spacious urban park covering approximately 82 hectares on the scenic hills of Suma Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. The park consists of two main areas: a formal Western-style garden and a botanical garden. Together, they offer a beautiful combination of landscaped grounds, historic sites, seasonal flowers, and peaceful natural surroundings....»
Sorakuen Garden is a beautiful Japanese garden located in Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Covering approximately 20,000 square meters, this urban oasis combines traditional Japanese landscaping with historic architecture and Western influences. Kobe City acquired the property in 1941 and opened it to the public, allowing visitors to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and seasonal scenery. Sorakuen ...»
Kobe Oji Zoo is located in Oji Park in Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. This historic zoo was once famous as the only place in Japan where visitors could see giant pandas and koalas at the same time. In addition to its diverse animal exhibits, the zoo is also renowned as a popular cherry blossom viewing destination, attracting large numbers of visitors in spring....»
Kobe Animal Kingdom is a botanical garden and animal park located on Port Island in Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Designed around the themes of flowers and birds, the park features spacious indoor greenhouses where a variety of birds roam freely, allowing visitors to observe them at close range in an environment that resembles their natural habitats. Following a major renovation in 2014, the...»
Kobe Beef is one of Japan's most internationally recognized premium beef brands, celebrated for its exquisite marbling, rich flavor, and exceptionally tender texture. It comes exclusively from Tajima cattle born and raised by designated producers in Hyogo Prefecture. Only beef that meets strict quality standards can be certified and sold under the Kobe Beef name. Often regarded as one of Japan's ...»
Roadside Station Kobe Fruit and Flower Park Ozo is a spacious resort and leisure destination in Ozo-cho, Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Covering approximately 100 hectares, equivalent to about nine Koshien baseball stadiums, the complex combines beautiful gardens and orchards with a hotel, hot springs, an amusement park, restaurants, and a farmers' market. Visitors can enjoy everything from se...»
Sumaura Mountain Amusement Park is a scenic leisure park in Suma Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Spread across the summit areas of Mount Hachibuse and Mount Hatafuri, the park combines lush natural surroundings, botanical gardens, panoramic viewpoints, and nostalgic amusement rides. Its blend of mountain scenery, seasonal flowers, and old-fashioned attractions makes it a popular destination for loca...»
Meriken Park is a popular waterfront park in Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Created by reclaiming land between the historic Meriken Wharf and Naka Pier, the park brings together some of Kobe's most recognizable landmarks, including Kobe Port Tower, the Kobe Maritime Museum, hotels, and open spaces overlooking the harbor. With its combination of maritime scenery, modern architecture, public art,...»
Nunobiki Falls is the collective name for four waterfalls along the Nunobiki Stream in Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. The stream is recognized as one of Japan's Selected 100 Remarkable Waters, and the falls have been celebrated as a scenic destination since ancient times. Nunobiki Falls is also regarded as one of Japan's Three Great Sacred Waterfalls and is sometimes included among the country...»
Kobe Port Tower stands in Hatoba-cho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, and is one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Completed on November 20, 1963, it has long been a favorite destination for both visitors and local residents. Its distinctive silhouette has earned it the nickname “the Beauty of Steel Towers,” reflecting its elegant design and innovative structure. In December 2014, the ...»
Kobe Fashion Museum is Japan's first museum dedicated to fashion. Opened in 1997, it is located on Rokko Island, a man-made island in Higashinada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. As a symbol of Kobe's cultural creativity and fashion industry, the museum offers visitors a wide-ranging look at fashion through exhibitions, historical collections, research resources, and special events....»
Kikumasamune Sake Brewery Museum is located in Higashinada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. The museum introduces the history and traditions of Kikumasamune, one of Japan's best-known sake producers, and showcases the heritage of sake brewing in the Nada district. Its collection includes 566 tools and other objects designated as Important Tangible Folk Cultural Properties of Japan, offering visitors ...»
Kobe Shushinkan is a historic sake brewery located in Higashinada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. It is best known as the producer of Fukuju, a celebrated Japanese sake brand. The name Fukuju comes from Fukurokuju, one of the Seven Lucky Gods in Japanese tradition, and expresses a wish to bring good fortune and prosperity to those who enjoy the sake....»
Kin no Yu is a public bathing facility operated by Kobe City in Arima Onsen, a historic hot spring resort on the northern slopes of the Rokko Mountains in Hyogo Prefecture. The facility opened on December 4, 2002, following the redevelopment of the former Arima Onsen Kaikan public bathhouse. At its entrance stands an Edo-period stone monument inscribed with the words “Nihon Daiichi Shinreisen,” me...»
Ikuta Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Shimoyamate-dori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. With a history stretching back to ancient times, it is listed among Japan's important shrines recorded in the Engishiki, an ancient compilation of laws and religious regulations. Under the former system of shrine rankings, it was designated a Kanpei Chusha, a shrine supported by the Imperial Co...»
Minatogawa Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Tamondori, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. It enshrines Kusunoki Masashige, a celebrated samurai remembered for his loyalty, courage, and devotion to Emperor Go-Daigo. Affectionately known by local residents as “Nanko-san,” a respectful nickname for Kusunoki Masashige, the shrine is one of the 15 shrines associated with the Kenmu Restorat...»
Kobe Harborland is a major waterfront redevelopment district in Chuo Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture. Often referred to simply as “Harborland,” this lively area combines shopping, dining, entertainment, offices, and residential neighborhoods with scenic views of Kobe Port. The district was developed on approximately 23 hectares of former industrial land, including the site of the former Japanes...»
Taisanji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple in Nishi Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Belonging to the Tendai school of Buddhism, it takes its mountain name, Sanshinzan, from the surrounding area and enshrines Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of Healing, as its principal deity. The temple's main hall also houses a statue of the Eleven-Headed Kannon, which serves as the principal image of the 25th temple ...»
Rokko Garden Terrace is a popular sightseeing destination on Mount Rokko in Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Located at an elevation of approximately 890 meters, this mountain complex brings together panoramic viewpoints, restaurants, shops, and open spaces. From its terraces, visitors can enjoy spectacular views of Kobe, Osaka Bay, and the surrounding landscape, making it an ideal place to appr...»
Gin no Yu (Silver Bath) is a public hot spring bathing facility operated by Kobe City in Arima Onsen, a historic hot spring resort on the northern slopes of Mount Rokko in Hyogo Prefecture. Opened in 2001, it offers visitors an opportunity to experience the area's renowned Ginsen, or “silver spring,” known for its clear, colorless water. The spring water used at Gin no Yu comes from a blend of ca...»
Kobe Weathercock House is a historic Western-style residence located in Kitano-cho 3-chome, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Built in 1904 as the private home of a German trading merchant, the mansion is distinguished by its substantial red-brick exterior and the weathercock standing atop its roof. The weathercock gave the building its popular name, while it is also known as the Former Thomas Re...»
The Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum is a specialist museum dedicated to the tools and techniques used in traditional Japanese woodworking and architecture. Established in 1984 by Takenaka Corporation in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, it preserves and showcases the skills and craftsmanship that have shaped Japan’s wooden buildings for centuries. It is operated by the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum Founda...»
Hyogo Prefectural Maiko Park is a scenic urban park in Higashi-Maiko-cho, Tarumi Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Combining natural beauty, historic architecture, and cultural attractions, the park is a popular destination for both visitors and local residents. Its waterfront location offers impressive views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, one of the area's most recognizable landmarks, as well as the su...»
The UCC Coffee Museum is a corporate museum dedicated to the history, production, and culture of coffee. Located on Port Island in Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, it offers visitors an opportunity to explore how coffee originated, how it spread around the world, and how it became an integral part of everyday life in many cultures. Established by UCC Ueshima Coffee Co., the museum combines educa...»
Nada sake comes from one of Japan’s most celebrated sake-producing regions, located along the coastal area between Osaka and Kobe in Hyogo Prefecture. The region is known as Nada Gogo, or the Five Villages of Nada, comprising Imazu-go and Nishinomiya-go in Nishinomiya City, and Uozaki-go, Mikage-go, and Nishi-go in Kobe. Many breweries here have traditions dating back to the Edo period, and the ar...»
Gyoza with miso sauce is a signature local specialty in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Unlike in many other parts of Japan, where pan-fried Japanese dumplings are typically eaten with soy sauce and vinegar, Kobe residents commonly enjoy their gyoza with a distinctive, specially prepared miso-based dipping sauce. This unusual yet delicious tradition is deeply rooted in Kobe's food culture. It is said to ...»
Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden is a botanical garden located on Mount Rokko in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Situated at an elevation of 865 meters, it takes advantage of the mountain's cool climate to cultivate approximately 1,500 species of alpine plants and other plants from cold regions around the world. Combining natural beauty with botanical and scientific value, the garden offers visitors an oppor...»
The Kobe Maritime Museum is a fascinating museum in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, dedicated to the history and development of the city, its ships, and its port. Through historical materials, ship models, videos, and graphic displays, the museum explains how the sea has shaped Kobe and explores the future of maritime technology and port development. The museum also houses Kawasaki Good Times World, a co...»
Kawasaki Good Times World is a corporate museum operated by the Kawasaki Heavy Industries Group, located inside the Kobe Maritime Museum in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. The museum showcases the company's history and technological achievements through an impressive collection of motorcycles, trains, helicopters, ships, and industrial machinery. Designed around the idea of seeing, touching, and experien...»
The Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park is a small but deeply meaningful site in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, where part of Meriken Wharf, damaged during the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, has been preserved in its original condition. The park serves as a lasting reminder of the disaster and its impact on the city, helping visitors understand the importance of disaster preparedness and passing the l...»
Moegi no Yakata, also known as the Former Sharp Residence, is a historic Western-style mansion in Kitano-cho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Built in 1903 as the residence of Hunter Sharp, the American consul general in Kobe, it is one of the distinctive foreign residences that reflect the city's international history. The two-story wooden building features traditional clapboard siding and an...»
The Kobe Cruise Concerto offers a relaxing and memorable way to experience the beauty of Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, from the water. As the ship glides through Kobe Port and out along the coast, passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the Rokko Mountains, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Kobe Airport, and the surrounding coastline. The scenery changes throughout the day, from sparkling blue waters at luncht...»
Kobe Muslim Mosque is a historic Islamic place of worship in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Built in 1935 by the city's Muslim community, it is recognized as Japan's first mosque and remains an important symbol of Kobe's long-standing international character. The mosque's distinctive architecture features a central dome crowned with a crescent moon and four slender minarets rising above the surrounding ...»
Sakura Masamune Memorial Hall, known as Sakuraen, is located in the heart of Nada Gogo, one of Japan's most renowned sake-producing regions in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. The facility celebrates the area's rich brewing heritage and preserves the traditions of Sakura Masamune, a sake brewery with more than 300 years of history, for future generations. Established in the wake of the Great Hanshin-Awaji...»
Rokko Shidare is a distinctive observation facility located in Gosukeyama, Rokko-sancho, Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Situated within Rokko Garden Terrace, it offers visitors an opportunity to experience nature up close while enjoying spectacular views that change with the seasons. Its unique architecture and harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape make it a popular destinatio...»
Kobe City Rokkosan Farm is a spacious mountain farm located near the summit of Mount Rokko in Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Inspired by traditional alpine farms in Switzerland, the farm combines open pastures and lush natural surroundings with opportunities to get close to a variety of animals. It is an appealing destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a relaxing escap...»
The Rokko-Arima Ropeway is an aerial cableway in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, connecting the mountainous area of Mount Rokko with Arima Onsen, one of Japan's historic hot spring destinations. Since April 2023, the service has been operated by Kobe Future City Organization. Today, only the Arima Line, formerly known as the Ura-Rokko Line, remains in operation. The Omote-Rokko Line is suspended, making t...»
ROKKO Forest Sound Museum is a music museum specializing in music boxes and automatic musical instruments, located on Mount Rokko in Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Surrounded by the mountain's beautiful natural environment, the museum houses a remarkable collection of music boxes and self-playing instruments from around the world. Visitors can enjoy a unique experience in which the sounds of m...»
Uroko-no-Ie and the Uroko Museum of Art are historic attractions in Kitano-cho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Known for their distinctive architecture and impressive art collections, they offer visitors a glimpse into the Western culture that flourished in Kobe following the opening of the city to international trade. Uroko-no-Ie was the first foreign-style residence in Kobe to open to the p...»
The Maya Cable Line is a cable railway in Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, connecting Maya Cable Station with Niji Station, officially known by the nickname Niji-no-Eki, or Rainbow Station. The line climbs Mount Maya, part of the Rokko mountain range, and provides access to the mountain’s upper reaches via the Maya Ropeway, which connects at Niji Station. The cable railway and ropeway together ...»
The Kobe Nunobiki Ropeway is a sightseeing cable car system connecting the Shin-Kobe area in Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, with Mount Yotsugi. It is widely used by visitors traveling to Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens and provides the main means of access to this hillside attraction. Since opening, the ropeway has been enjoyed by both local residents and tourists for its comfortable ride and beaut...»
The Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art is a major art museum located in the HAT Kobe waterfront district of Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Opened in 2002, it succeeded the former Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Modern Art, which was damaged in the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake of 1995. Affectionately known as the “Museum of Art,” it offers visitors a rich combination of artistic collections, special exhibition...»
The Maya Ropeway is a sightseeing cableway operated by Kobe Future City Organization on Mount Maya in Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. It connects Niji Station, located partway up the mountain, with Hoshi Station near the summit. The six-minute ride offers beautiful views of Kobe and its surrounding natural landscapes, making it a popular attraction for visitors exploring the mountain....»
The Kobe Municipal Forest Botanical Garden is a spacious botanical garden located in Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Opened in 1940, it covers approximately 142.6 hectares on the slopes of the Rokko Mountains, west of Mount Maya and north of Mount Futatabi. The garden lies within Setonaikai National Park and reaches an elevation of approximately 440 meters near its main entrance, offering a ref...»
Kobe City Museum is a humanities museum located in Kyomachi, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. It attracts visitors and researchers from Japan and abroad with its extensive collections and exhibitions exploring the city’s history and its role in international cultural exchange....»
Suma Beach is a popular seaside destination in Suma Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Known as one of the largest bathing beaches in the Hanshin region between Osaka and Kobe, it forms part of the scenic Suma coastline and is a favorite summer recreation spot for visitors from across the Kansai region....»
Soba-meshi is a beloved local specialty that originated in Nagata Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. This hearty dish combines yakisoba (Japanese stir-fried noodles) with rice, all cooked together on a hot iron griddle and seasoned with savory Japanese sauce. Its distinctive appeal lies in its rich, smoky aroma and the deliciously crispy bits that form on the griddle....»
The Sumaura Ropeway is located in Suma Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, and connects Sumaura-koen Station with Hachibuse-sanjo Station on Mount Hachibuse. The summit stands at an elevation of 246 meters and offers magnificent panoramic views of the surrounding coastline, mountains, and sea. Visitors can enjoy a memorable aerial journey while taking in the scenery of Kobe and the wider Kansai region....»
Suma Seaside Park is a scenic waterfront park in Suma Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Stretching along Suma Beach, it is a popular destination for local residents and visitors alike. The park offers opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the coast throughout the year, along with a variety of recreational activities....»
Zuihoji Park is a municipal park in the Arima Onsen hot spring district of Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Located at an elevation of approximately 500 meters, near the highest part of the hot spring town, the park is widely celebrated for its spectacular autumn foliage. Visitors can enjoy beautiful natural scenery throughout the changing seasons, with fall being an especially popular time to e...»
Suma-dera Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Suma-dera-cho, Suma Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. It serves as the head temple of the Suma-dera branch of Shingon Buddhism. Its formal name is Fukushō-ji, and its mountain name is Uenoyama. The temple's principal object of worship is a statue of Sho Kannon, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. It is also the 24th temple on the New Saigoku Thirty-...»
The Rokko Cable Line is a funicular railway operated by Kobe Rokko Railway in Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. It connects Rokko Cable Shita Station at the foot of Mount Rokko with Rokko Sanjo Station near the summit area, providing convenient access to one of Kobe's most popular mountain destinations....»
Mount Maya is a 702-meter-high mountain in the central part of the Rokko Mountain Range, located in Nada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Known for its beautiful scenery and rich historical heritage, the mountain has long attracted visitors and hikers. Today, it remains one of Kobe's most appealing destinations for enjoying nature, panoramic views, and mountain trails....»
Sumaura Park is a spacious public park located in Ichinotani-cho, Suma Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Extending across the slopes and surrounding areas at the foot of Mount Hachibuse and Mount Tekkai, the park covers approximately 103.8 hectares. It is managed by Kobe City and is open 24 hours a day, with free admission. Combining coastal scenery, wooded hills, historical landmarks, and seasonal fl...»
Kobe's Chinatown, known as Nankinmachi, is famous for its lively streets lined with Chinese restaurants, food stalls, and specialty shops. Often described as a paradise for street food lovers, the district offers a wide variety of treats, but one of its most popular specialties is butaman, a steamed pork bun filled with juicy, savory meat. Many shops specialize in these freshly steamed buns, and p...»
Kitano Tenman Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Kitano-cho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. It is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a celebrated scholar and statesman who is widely revered as the deity of learning. With a history stretching back more than 800 years, the shrine remains an important place of worship for the local community and a cultural landmark in Kobe's Kitano di...»
Mitsui Outlet Park Marine Pia Kobe is a shopping and leisure complex located on Kaigandori in Tarumi Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Part of the Mitsui Outlet Park chain, it is a popular destination where visitors can combine outlet shopping with beautiful coastal scenery. The original complex opened in 1999 on reclaimed land off the coast of Tarumi. Since then, it has attracted shoppers from across...»
A Beloved Local Specialty from Kobe's Downtown Neighborhoods Bokkake yakisoba is a popular local dish from Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, combining savory fried noodles with bokkake, a traditional preparation of beef tendon and konjac simmered slowly in a sweet and savory sauce. The beef tendon becomes wonderfully tender after long cooking, while the sauce-coated noodles absorb its rich flavor. The resu...»
A Beloved Local Specialty from Nagata Ward Bokkake udon is a popular local dish that originated in Nagata Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. It features udon noodles topped with bokkake, a savory preparation of beef tendon and konjac simmered in broth, often finished with chopped green onions. This hearty, comforting dish is a classic example of Kobe's everyday food culture, combining satisfying ingre...»
Premium Japanese Beef, Grilled to Perfection Kobe beef steak is one of Japan's most celebrated gourmet experiences, prized around the world for its exceptional quality and luxurious flavor. Prepared by grilling carefully selected Kobe beef on a hot iron griddle, the steak is typically seasoned simply with salt and pepper, allowing the natural richness of the meat to take center stage. A sauce can...»
A Beloved Kobe Specialty Featuring Slow-Simmered Beef Tendon Okonomiyaki is one of Japan's most popular comfort foods, and Kobe has its own distinctive version featuring bokkake, a local specialty made from beef tendon and konjac simmered in a savory-sweet sauce. This hearty combination gives Kobe-style okonomiyaki a rich flavor and makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike....»
Nori seaweed from Hyogo Prefecture is highly regarded in Japan, which is one of the world's leading producers of this traditional food. Among the prefecture's varieties, Suma Nori, harvested along the coastal area stretching from Suma to Tarumi in Kobe, is particularly well known for its excellent quality and distinctive flavor. Suma Nori is characterized by its relatively thick sheets, crisp tex...»
Kobe Wine is a locally produced wine that captures the character and natural bounty of Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Made exclusively from grapes grown in Kobe, it offers a taste of the region’s fertile land and distinctive growing conditions....»
Kobe Winery Agricultural Park, located in Oshibedani-cho, Nishi Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, is an agricultural park specializing in grape cultivation and winemaking. Also known as Kobe Wine Castle, the facility is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts, families, and visitors seeking hands-on agricultural experiences. It is operated by the Kobe Minori no Kōsha Foundation, an organization est...»
Yuzuruha Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Mikage Gunge, Higashinada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. With a long history and deep connections to local traditions, the shrine has attracted worshippers for generations. It was formerly classified as a village shrine under Japan’s prewar system of shrine rankings....»
The Sumiyoshi River is the main river of a secondary river system flowing through eastern Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Descending steeply from the foothills of Mount Rokko, it forms an alluvial fan before entering the urban area. In its middle and lower reaches, the river flows through an elevated channel, a distinctive geographical feature known as a raised riverbed or an “aboveground river.”...»
The Koiso Memorial Museum of Art, Kobe is located on Rokko Island in Higashinada Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. The museum was established to preserve and exhibit works donated by the family of Ryōhei Koiso, a renowned Western-style painter and honorary citizen of Kobe, and to celebrate his artistic achievements....»
The Flower Clock in Higashi Yuenchi Park in Chuo Ward, Kobe, is widely recognized as Japan’s first floral clock. Created with donations from Kobe residents and local businesses, this distinctive monument has long been cherished by the community as a symbol of the city’s civic pride and love of flowers....»
Former Foreign Settlement Building No. 38 is a historic building in Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Its name comes from the plot number “38” assigned during the era when the area served as a foreign settlement. The building was once owned by Daimaru, now part of Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores, and used as a warehouse for Daimaru Kobe, which stands to its north and west. Today, the histor...»
Higashi Yuenchi Park, also known as KOBE EAST PARK, is a municipal park in Kanocho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Managed by Kobe City, it lies immediately south of Kobe City Hall and stretches along the western side of Flower Road. Despite the word “Yuenchi,” which can mean an amusement park in Japanese, this is a public urban park rather than an amusement park. The word “Higashi,” meaning ...»
Port Island is an artificial island in Kobe Port, located in Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Often nicknamed “Porai” or “PI,” it is connected to central Kobe by Kobe Ohashi Bridge and the Minatojima Tunnel. Known as one of Japan’s first waterfront cities with fully integrated urban functions, Port Island was the world’s largest artificial island when it was developed in the 1970s. Today, it con...»
The Port of Kobe is one of Japan’s major international trading ports, located in Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture. Officially designated as an International Strategic Port under Japan’s Port and Harbor Act, it has played a vital role in the country’s domestic and international trade for more than a century. The port officially opened on January 1, 1868, and is managed by Kobe City....»
Luminous Kobe 2 is a large restaurant cruise ship that departs from Naka Pier in Kobe Port, Hyogo Prefecture. It was built in 1994 at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Kobe Shipyard as the successor to Luminous Kobe, one of Japan’s first restaurant cruise ships, which entered service in 1987. With a gross tonnage of 4,778 tons and a passenger capacity of 1,000, Luminous Kobe 2 is larger than its prede...»
The Kobe Festival is a large-scale, community-oriented celebration held in Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, generally in May. First organized in 1971 by the Kobe Citizens’ Festival Association, the event brought together celebrations previously held in different parts of the city, with Sannomiya in Chuo Ward serving as its main venue. Its theme, “Greenery, the Sea, and Love,” reflects Kobe’s identity as a ...»
Nagata Shrine is a historic Shinto shrine located in Nagata-cho, Nagata Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. With a history extending back more than 1,800 years according to tradition, it is one of the city’s most important places of worship. The shrine is listed in the ancient Engishiki records as a prestigious shrine of national significance and formerly held the rank of Kanpei Chusha, a designation gr...»
Kobe-Sanda Premium Outlets is a large outlet shopping mall located in Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Operated by Mitsubishi Estate-Simon, the complex opened on July 6, 2007. Inspired by the city of Pasadena in California, USA, it features an expansive layout and sophisticated architecture reminiscent of an American-style shopping village....»
Shiawase-no-Mura, meaning “Village of Happiness,” is a large multi-purpose recreational complex in Kita Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Set amid expansive green spaces, it offers a wide variety of facilities, including sports grounds, recreational areas, welfare services, hot springs, barbecue sites, and outdoor adventure activities. Designed to welcome people of all ages and abilities, it is a wond...»
The Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution is a major center for disaster prevention and risk reduction located in HAT Kobe, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Established in commemoration of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake of January 17, 1995, the institution aims to preserve the lessons learned from the disaster and help reduce the impact of earthquakes and other natural hazards ...»
Okurayama Park is a green public park in the western part of Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Its name comes from Kisaburo Okura, a successful businessman who built a major business empire during the Meiji Restoration. He purchased approximately 8,000 tsubo (about 26,400 square meters) of land on Mount Anyōji, formerly known as Anyōji-yama, and later donated it to the city of Kobe. Today, much o...»
Moegi no Yakata, also known as the Former Sharp Residence, is a historic Western-style mansion located in Kitano-cho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. Designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan on December 18, 1980, the building is admired for its distinctive architecture, elegant decorative details, and fascinating history. It is one of the notable historic residences in Kobe's Kitano d...»