Kobe Itinerary: How to Spend 1 Day in Kobe, Japan

Last updated on July 1, 2024 by Krysti

Taking a day trip to Kobe, Japan? Then look no further! Because I’ve got you covered with this ultimate 1 day Kobe itinerary!

Known for its scenic coastal views, delectable marbled beef, vibrant international culture, and laid-back atmosphere, Kobe is an incredible destination – and one that pleasantly surprised me.

I have to be honest here, before traveling to Kobe, I didn’t have many expectations. I knew the city was famous for its beef, but other than that, I didn’t know much about it. And, frankly, I wasn’t all that interested in visiting.

In fact, it was my husband who encouraged me to give Kobe a chance – and I’m so glad that I did!

Simply put, the city has so much to offer. From historical shrines to cascading waterfalls, expansive shopping centers, and unforgettable street food – there really is something for everyone here. 

And the best part is – the city isn’t nearly as crowded as its more popular neighbors, Kyoto and Osaka. So, it makes for a perfect getaway, if you’re looking to escape the crowds for a day (or two!). 

That being said, here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect Kobe itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Kobe

View of Kobe from the Kobe Ropeway.

While Kobe is a destination that you can visit year-round, I recommend traveling to the city in either the spring or the fall.

I visited Kobe in May and had great weather the entire time! It was warm enough to get outside, but not so hot that you couldn’t enjoy it. And, on top of that, we experienced no rain and plenty of sunshine.

You can expect much of the same weather throughout March and April. Although it’s worth noting, you’re likely to encounter larger crowds, as this is when cherry blossoms typically bloom.

If you wish to avoid this, you can instead travel to Kobe in the fall.

Around this time of the year, the weather is still quite pleasant and warm. Plus, you may even get the added bonus of experiencing fall foliage.

Aside from this, summer is another option, if you don’t mind the heat. Generally speaking, June, July, and August bring about the warmest temperatures. But also, the most rain – so you’ll want to keep that in mind. 

And finally, there’s winter, which offers the fewest crowds but also the chilliest temperatures. The months of January and February can be particularly cold. However, you’re likely to see little snow, so you won’t need to worry too much about weather disruptions.

How to Get to Kobe

Situated along the eastern coast of Honshu Island, Kobe is the capital city of Hyogo Prefecture.

The sixth largest urban center in Japan and the third largest port city, Kobe lies within the Kansai region, which also encompasses the cities of Osaka and Kyoto.

Given its close proximity to these two popular destinations, Kobe has become a common day trip option for many visitors.

If you’re traveling from Osaka it only takes about 20 minutes to get to Kobe via the local rapid train. Or, alternatively, there’s also the bullet train, which will get you from Osaka to Kobe in as little as 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, for those coming from Kyoto, Kobe is about 50 minutes away by local train or 30 minutes away by bullet train.

The main train stations for Kobe are Shin-Kobe Station, which services bullet trains, and Kobe Sannomiya Station, which is where most local trains stop.

If you’re traveling from farther away and prefer to fly, you can also book a flight to Kobe Airport (UKB). 

This domestic airport lies just off the coast of Kobe on a small island and is accessible via a 25-minute train ride from the downtown area.

How to Get Around Kobe

Taxis can usually be found waiting outside of train stations.

Since you’ll only have one day in Kobe, I recommend utilizing taxis for most, if not all, of your transit needs.

While public transportation is readily available and reliable in Kobe, it isn’t always as fast or direct as a taxi or a car will be. And in your case, it’s better to spend less time in transit, so you have more time to explore.

That being said, public transportation is still a valid option, if you prefer to go this route. 

There’s an extensive network of subways and buses that you can make use of to travel around Kobe and the surrounding areas. 

Just be aware that you may lose some time in transit, so you’ll likely need to adjust your itinerary to compensate for this.

If you wish to use public transportation in Kobe, it’s best to purchase an IC card, which is essentially a transportation pass. 

These prepaid, refillable cards can be found at most train stations across Japan and are compatible with many different forms of public transportation throughout the country. 

This means that an IC card purchased in Kobe can be used for trains, buses, and subways in Kobe, as well as Osaka, Kyoto, Tokyo, Hiroshima, etc.

Some exceptions to this, however, include Shinkansen (or bullet trains), limited express trains, and highway buses. These forms of transportation typically require their own separate ticket.

Pro Tip: Download Google Maps and use it to help you navigate the city. This app is one of the best travel apps for Japan, as it is synced with the local public transportation and provides accurate, up-to-date transit information.

Map of Kobe

To help you plan your trip, here’s a quick map overview of all the destinations mentioned in this Kobe one day itinerary.

If you’d like to view an interactive version of this map, click here!

Kobe Day Trip Itinerary: An Overview

Don’t have time to read the article in full? Here’s a quick recap of my suggested Kobe itinerary for 1 day.

• Nunobiki Falls: Consisting of 4 separate waterfalls, Nunobiki Falls are quite a sight to behold and they just so happen to be located within hiking distance of downtown Kobe. 
• Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway: Situated high above Kobe on Mount Rokko, Nunobiki Herb Gardens is not only the largest herb garden in all of Japan, but it also offers great views of the city.
• Nankin-machi Chinatown: The third largest Chinatown in Japan, Nankin-machi is home to a plethora of shops, restaurants, and street vendors.
• Meriken Park: Offering incredible ocean views, Meriken Park lies right on the water and is home to several iconic landmarks including the Kobe Port Tower and the Be Kobe Monument. 
• Kobe Harborland: Situated next to Meriken Park, Harborland is a popular destination full of lively entertainment venues, delectable restaurants, and expansive shopping centers.  
• Kobe Beef: Kobe’s main claim to fame, Kobe Beef is a must for any visit to the city. Luckily, there are tons of restaurants for you to choose from!

Kobe Day Trip Itinerary: Explained

On that note, let’s dive in and discuss in detail the perfect 1 day itinerary for Kobe. I’ve included the city’s most popular attractions, as well as a few alternatives for you to consider. Feel free to pick and choose and adapt this itinerary as you see fit!

Pro Tip: The trail head for Nunobiki Falls lies right next to Shin-Kobe Station. So I’d recommend beginning your Kobe itinerary here. Then you can work your way down through the city towards the harbor.

Hike to Nunobiki Falls

Ontaki Waterfall in Kobe.

Situated just outside of Kobe, the Nunobiki Falls is a set of 4 waterfalls that cascade down the slopes of Mt. Rokko.

Known as Ontaki, Mentaki, Meotodaki, and Tsutsumidaki, these waterfalls are considered to be some of the most beautiful in Japan – so much so that they have played an important historical role in Japanese art and literature.

Today, visitors can access the falls via a hiking trail that departs from Shin-Kobe Station.

This trail actually connects to a network of other trails that span across Mt. Rokko. And, it even travels all the way up to the Kobe Herb Gardens.

However, if you’re simply interested in visiting the falls, you may do so by hiking in and out. The most famous of the waterfalls, Ontaki, is located only 10-15 minutes away from Shin-Kobe.

Pro Tip: Be sure to wear proper footwear! The trail to Ontaki is relatively short, but it’s also steep and involves quite a few stairs.

Take the Ropeway to Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens

Home to approximately 75,000 herbs and 200 species of flowers, Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden is the largest herb garden in Japan.

Located along the slopes of Mt. Rokko, the gardens are accessible via a ropeway or hiking trail, both of which depart near Shin-Kobe Station. 

Here, you’ll find a wide array of expansive gardens, vibrant flower displays, and aromatic herb beds. As well as a gift shop, several dining options, and a free foot bath.

And, of course, we can’t forget about the incredible views. There are several vantage points within the gardens (and along the ropeway) from which you can take in the city of Kobe.

Pro Tip: The garden is a great destination year-round – even during the winter! Around the holidays the garden is actually transformed into a lively, festival Christmas market reminiscent of those found in Europe!

Discover Nankin-machi Chinatown

As one of Japan’s top three largest Chinatowns, Nankin-machi is definitely worth a visit.

Originally dating back to the 18th century, this lively district is now home to countless shops, restaurants, and street vendors.

It’s the perfect place to stop for a quick bite to eat on your way to and from attractions. 

You can either grab something on the go from a street vendor. Or, if you have time to spare, sit down and enjoy one of the area’s unique Chinese-Japanese fusion restaurants.

Visit Meriken Park at the Port of Kobe

Offering incredible coastal views, Meriken Park is one of the most popular destinations along the Port of Kobe.

Located right on the water, this park is home to several notable attractions, including the Kobe Port Tower, the Be Kobe Monument, the Kobe Maritime Museum, and the Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial.

In addition to this, the park is also known to host a number of festivals and seasonal celebrations throughout the year. 

These events encompass everything from Holiday illuminations to musical concerts, cultural festivals, and firework displays.

Explore Kobe Harborland

Stretching from the Port of Kobe all the way to Kobe Station, Kobe Harborland is an expansive entertainment complex.

Here, you’ll find a variety of shopping centers, waterfront restaurants, delectable cafes, and amusing attractions.

Some of the most popular destinations include the Mosaic Ferris Wheel, the Anpanman Children’s Museum, and the Umie Mosaic Shopping Mall, which offers waterfront views.

There’s also the Kobe Gaslight Street, a shopping strip that’s illuminated in the evenings by old-fashioned gas street lamps.

Sample Kobe Beef

Kobe beef is, without a doubt, Kobe’s main claim to fame. And for good reason – it’s true what they say, the meat really does melt in your mouth!

So, definitely make sure to set aside at least one meal to give it a try.

I recommend making reservations at a sit-down restaurant for the best experience possible. However, there are also street vendors that offer Kobe beef, if you’re pressed for time.

Yakiniku restaurants, in particular, are great for Kobe beef, as they offer a variety of cuts for you to choose from. And, you’ll be able to cook it yourself, exactly to your liking! 

Regardless of where you choose to go, be sure to make reservations well in advance. Some of the more popular restaurants are known to book up months ahead of time!

How to Make the Most of Your 1 Day Kobe Itinerary

At the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens and Ropeway.

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you make the most of your Kobe day trip!

Arrive Early & Stay Late

To maximize your time in the city, arrive as early as you can and stay as late as you can! Or better yet, if your schedule allows, spend the night in Kobe. Even if you have to leave early the next day, this will provide you with more opportunities for sightseeing. 

Don’t Overpack Your Day

Kobe offers much to be explored. And honestly, you won’t be able to experience it all in one day. So don’t try to. Instead, pick a few activities and attractions that interest you the most and focus on those. You’ll enjoy the city much more if you aren’t constantly running around from place to place.

Opt to Travel By Taxi

Like the rest of Japan, public transportation is widely and readily available in Kobe. However, sometimes taxis are simply faster and easier – especially when you’re short on time. And, honestly, they aren’t very expensive. So, don’t be afraid to hail a cab from time to time!

Plan Out Meals Ahead of Time

The city of Kobe is home to a wide variety of incredible restaurants and eateries. There are so many that at times it can be overwhelming – and time-consuming – trying to decide where to go and what to eat. To make this easier and save yourself some time, look up restaurants beforehand and have an idea of where you’d like to go. Better yet, make reservations in advance so you aren’t stuck waiting around for a table.

Join a Kobe Day Trip Tour

A guided tour is a great option if you’re worried about the logistics of planning a day trip to Kobe. There are several for you to choose from, although they don’t all include transportation into the city. So, just be aware of that.

Here are a few popular tours for you to consider:

• Kobe｜Mt. Rokko Night View Day Tour
• Kobe Highlights Day Tour with Sake Tasting
• Private Walking Tour with Local Guide
• Customized Chartered Car One Day Tour From Osaka
• Private Car Charter Tour From Kyoto

Other Things to Do in Kobe

Torii gates at Ikuta Shrina in Kobe, Japan.

Interested in adjusting this Kobe itinerary? Or maybe you’re contemplating a longer stay? If so, consider visiting some of these other popular attractions as well!

• Ikuta Jinja: Dating back to the 3rd century, Ikuta Jinja is said to be one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan. Located in the heart of Sannomiya, the complex features a main hall, a set of torii gates, a small forest, and a duck pond. 
• Hyogo Big Buddha: Situated on the grounds of Nofukuji Temple, the Hyogo Big Buddha is a large statue that depicts the Buddha in a sitting position. Originally constructed in the 1800s, the statue was melted down to make weapons during WWII and was later rebuilt in 1991.
• Nijigen no Mori Theme Park: Located on nearby Awaji Island, Nijigen no Mori is an anime theme park that offers a variety of experiences. Popular manga featured here include Naruto, Boruto, Godzilla, Dragon Quest, and Crayon Shin-chan.
• Kitano-cho Historic District: Once the home of foreign merchants and diplomats, Kitano-cho is now a popular historical attraction that offers a glimpse into the past. Here you’ll find several attractions, including the aptly named English House and the Kobe Kitano Museum.
• Arima Onsen: Set just outside the city of Kobe, Arima Onsen is a historic hot spring resort dating back 1,000 years. The area is home to several public and private onsens, as well as ryokans, restaurants, shops, and cafes.
• Harbor Cruise: Harbor cruises are a great way to experience Kobe from a different perspective. As you cruise around, you’ll be treated to incredible views, live music and on-board refreshments!

What to Eat in Kobe

Chinatown offers a wide variety of goodies for you to try!

While Kobe beef is, undoubtedly, a must for those visiting Kobe, the city is also home to a number of other delectable dishes. Although you won’t have time to sample them all, here are a few more popular dishes to try in Kobe.

• Gyoza: Gyozas are a staple across much of Japan, but in Kobe, they’re offered with a bit of a local twist. Known as misodare gyoza, these dumplings are pan-fried and served with a miso-based dipping sauce.
• Sobameshi: Hailing from the streets of Kobe, sobameshi is a stir fry consisting of chopped yakisoba, rice, and a variety of toppings. In Kobe, the most popular topping is, of course, beef tendons.
• Akashiyaki: Native to the Hyogo Prefecture, akashiyaki is similar to the takoyaki you’d find in Osaka. Both are dumplings made with octopus, but in Kobe, they’re a bit eggier and are served with a dashi dipping sauce.
• Korokke: Also known as Japanese potato croquettes, these deep-fried snacks consist of mashed potatoes mixed with ground beef and onion. Since you’re in Kobe, you can expect to find several varieties that include Kobe beef!
• Japanese Sake: In addition to Kobe beef, the city is also known for its sake, which is considered to be some of the best in Japan. You can find sake breweries spread throughout Kobe, but some of the most famous are located in the Nada district.

Where to Stay in Kobe

The area around Kobe Port is a great place to stay!

If you have time to spare, consider spending a night in Kobe. Not only will this provide you with more time to explore the city, but you also won’t feel as rushed. For those interested, I’ve included below some of the most popular places to stay in Kobe for one night.

• Sannomiya: Located in the heart of the city, Sannomiya is the place to stay if you wish to be in the midst of all the action. From bars to restaurants, shopping centers, and nightclubs, Sannomiya has it all.
• Motomachi: Situated just south of Sannomiya, Motomachi is another great option for those who’d like to stay in the downtown area. While it’s not quite as lively as Sannomiya, there are still several shopping centers and restaurants for you to discover.
• Shin-Kobe: If you’re short on time, or have an early train to catch, it might be best to stay in the immediate area surrounding Shin-Kobe Station. While it is a bit removed from the downtown area, it does offer easy access to several nearby attractions.
• Arima Onsen: Situated just outside of the city, Arima Onsen is perfect if you’re looking for a quiet, relaxing getaway. Here, you’ll find a plethora of accommodations that feature hot spring amenities and experiences. 
• Kobe Harbor: For the most scenic views, book a hotel along the harbor. As an added bonus, you’ll also have the most convenient access to the city’s waterfront attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Kobe Itinerary

Here are my thoughts on some commonly asked questions about visiting Kobe, Japan.

Is Kobe Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! In fact, Kobe has become one of my favorite Japanese cities. It has so much to offer, and, at the same time, is more laid back and less touristy than other popular destinations. From its incredible coastal views to its amazing local cuisine, vibrant community, and natural surroundings, Kobe is an incredible city!

Is 1 Day Enough in Kobe?

One day in Kobe is certainly enough time to see the city’s major highlights. Just keep in mind, you won’t be able to experience everything. Kobe is a big city, with a lot to offer, so you’ll really need to pick and choose the attractions that most interest you. Ideally, if you have extra time, I’d recommend spending two full days in Kobe. But if that isn’t doable, one day is still enough time to get a feel for the city.

Can You Do a Day Trip to Kobe From Osaka?

Yes, it’s certainly possible to do a day trip to Kobe from Osaka! In fact, that’s what many people end up doing. You can easily catch a train and travel between the two cities. It only takes about 15 minutes by bullet train and 20 minutes on the local rapid train.

Is Kobe Closer to Osaka or Kyoto?

The city of Kobe is closer to Osaka than Kyoto, but not by much! While Osaka is about 15 minutes away by bullet train, Kyoto is 30 minutes away by bullet train. This makes Kobe a great day trip option, regardless of which city you decide to stay in.

Is Osaka or Kobe Better?

This is a tough question to answer, as it really depends on your interests and travel preferences. While I personally prefer Kobe, I definitely see the appeal of Osaka. So again, it really just depends. In short, I’d say that Osaka offers more large-scale attractions (think Universal Studios), a wider variety of street food, and more lively nightlife. However, at the same time, it’s also much more popular and therefore more crowded. Meanwhile, Kobe, on the other hand, is a bit more laid back, less touristy, and is home to more natural attractions.

Final Thoughts: Kobe Itinerary

So, there you have it – my top recommendations for one day in Kobe! Hopefully, this guide is helpful in planning your own trip to this incredible port city.

Regardless of what you decide to do, I’m sure you’ll have an amazing time. After all, Kobe is a unique and exciting destination – one that is bound to surprise you, just as it did for me!

Planning your own Kobe itinerary for 1 day? If so, what are you most excited to do? Let me know in the comments below!

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