Best Tours in Kobe
Kobe is a vibrant city located in Hyōgo Prefecture on the southern coast of Japan’s Honshu island, nestled between Osaka Bay and the Rokko Mountains. Known for its picturesque setting and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Kobe is part of the Keihanshin metropolitan area, which includes Osaka and Kyoto. The city has a rich history as an international port, blending Japanese and Western cultures. Famous for its Kobe beef, the city also offers attractions like the Kobe Port Tower, Kitano district, and Mount Rokko. Kobe combines natural beauty with urban sophistication, making it a popular destination for travellers.
WHERE IS KOBE?
Kobe is located in Hyōgo Prefecture on the southern coast of Japan’s Honshu island, nestled between Osaka Bay and the Rokko Mountains. It is approximately 30 kilometres west of Osaka. The city is easily accessible by various means of transportation. By train, you can reach Kobe from Osaka via the JR Kobe Line or the Hankyu and Hanshin railways in about 20-30 minutes. By air, the nearest airport is Kansai International Airport (KIX), with direct buses and trains to Kobe typically taking 1-1.5 hours. By car, Kobe is well-connected by highways and can be reached from Osaka in about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. These convenient transportation links make Kobe an easily accessible destination from major cities in the region.
BEST TOURS AROUND KOBE
Kobe is a captivating city that offers a diverse array of experiences for visitors. As a prime destination in Hyōgo Prefecture, Kobe boasts a unique blend of cultural heritage, modern attractions, and stunning natural scenery. From exploring historic districts and savouring world-renowned Kobe beef to enjoying breathtaking views from Mount Rokko and strolling along the picturesque waterfront, Kobe has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, cuisine, shopping, or outdoor activities, touring Kobe promises a memorable and enriching experience.
DAY TOURS IN KOBE
Discover the charm of Kobe with our expertly crafted day tours. Begin your adventure with a visit to the lush Herb Gardens, offering stunning views and fragrant flora. Explore the historic Ikuta Shrine, a peaceful sanctuary amidst the city. Indulge in a sake tasting experience in the Nada area, renowned for its premium sake breweries. Stroll through the bustling Harborland area, where you can enjoy scenic waterfront views and vibrant shopping opportunities. For a more extended experience, consider a trip to Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns, where you can relax in soothing thermal waters. Alternatively, immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture with a tea ceremony, learning the art of tea preparation and enjoying the serene ambiance. Each tour is designed to showcase the unique cultural and natural beauty of Kobe, providing an enriching and memorable experience.
1-Day Walking Tour around Kobe : Mountains, Sea and Sake / All Year Round
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Walking Tour around Kobe : Mountains, Sea and Sake | |
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| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 09:30 – 16:30 |
| Meeting Place | Shin-Kobe Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥18,000 |
| Child Rate | ¥11,500 |
Experience the best of Kobe with our comprehensive day tour. Begin with a visit to the serene Herb Gardens, where you can enjoy panoramic views and aromatic plants. Explore the historic Ikuta Shrine, a peaceful oasis in the city. Indulge in a sake tasting session in the renowned Nada district, famous for its high-quality breweries. Stroll through the vibrant Harborland area, taking in scenic waterfront views and diverse shopping opportunities. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and modern attractions, showcasing the unique charm and beauty of Kobe.
Kobe’s Harmony: Mountains, Sea, and the Serenity of Arima Onsen / All Year Round
1 Day Tour
| Kobe’s Harmony: Mountains, Sea, and the Serenity of Arima Onsen | |
| Period | All year round |
| Time | 09:15-16:45 |
| Meeting Place | JR Sannomiya Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥19,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥15,500 |
Experience the serene beauty of Arima Onsen with our relaxing day tour. Begin your journey with a visit to Maiko Bridge, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and the picturesque coastline. Continue to Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot spring towns, where you can unwind in the soothing thermal waters and explore the charming streets lined with traditional shops and eateries. This tour offers a perfect blend of scenic views and ultimate relaxation, providing a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Whispers of Tradition: Exploring Kobe’s Tool Museum, Tea Ceremony, and Port Tower/ All Year Round
Private Tour
| Whispers of Tradition: Exploring Kobe’s Tool Museum, Tea Ceremony, and Port Tower | |
| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 09:30 – 17:00 |
| Meeting Place | Shin-Kobe Station |
| Price | ¥79,000 ~ / group |
Discover the unique charm of Kobe on a private day tour, tailored just for you. Begin your journey at the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, where you can explore Japan’s rich woodworking heritage. Next, immerse yourself in a traditional tea ceremony, experiencing the art and tranquility of this timeless practice. Conclude your tour with a visit to the iconic Kobe Port Tower, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and harbor. This private tour ensures a personalized and intimate exploration of Kobe’s cultural and historical highlights.
TOURS IN THE REGION
If you are looking to continue your journey to other regions outside of Kobe, there are several fantastic tours to consider. Just a short trip away is Himeji, famous for its stunning castle. Visit the beautifully preserved Himeji Castle, stroll through the tranquil Kokoen Gardens, and enjoy a traditional aizome (indigo dyeing) experience. Kyoto, renowned for its cultural heritage, invites you to explore iconic sites like Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion), the serene rock garden at Ryoanji Temple, and the vibrant Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of torii gates. A Daruma experience in Kyoto provides a hands-on connection to traditional Japanese art. Osaka, a vibrant metropolis, offers visits to iconic sites like Osaka Castle, the historic Shitennoji Temple, and the bustling Kuromon Market. Enjoy a unique Ukiyoe art experience and the lively atmosphere of the Dotonbori area. Each destination near Kobe offers unique cultural, historical, and natural attractions, ensuring a memorable continuation of your journey through Japan.
1-Day walking tour in Osaka：Castle, temples and Ukiyoe / All Year Round
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day walking tour in Osaka：Castle, temples and Ukiyoe | |
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| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 09:00 – 17:00 |
| Meeting Place | Shin-Osaka Station / Osaka Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥18,000 |
| Child Rate | ¥11,500 |
Begin your journey in Osaka with our specially curated tour, perfect for first-time visitors. This introductory tour includes a visit to the historic Osaka Castle, where you can explore Japan’s feudal past and marvel at the impressive architecture. Next, experience the tranquillity of Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan’s oldest Buddhist temples. To cap off your day, enjoy a unique Ukiyo-e experience, delving into the traditional art of Japanese woodblock printing. This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Osaka, combining history, culture, and a hands-on artistic activity, making it an ideal start for any visitor.
Osaka’s Secret Adventures: Discover Daruma Magic and the Beauty of Minoh Falls / All Year Round
1 Day Tour
| Osaka’s Secret Adventures: Discover Daruma Magic and the Beauty of Minoh Falls | |
| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 09:20 – 16:00 |
| Meeting Place | Osaka Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥17,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥11,000 |
If you want to experience a different side of Osaka with a more natural touch, this is the tour for you. Begin your journey at the serene Daruma Temple, known for its peaceful ambiance and unique history. Here, you can explore the tranquil grounds and learn about the temple’s cultural significance. After soaking in the calm atmosphere of the temple, we will take you to a nearby waterfall, a hidden gem that offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle. The sound of cascading water and the lush greenery provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection. This tour offers a tranquil and scenic journey, allowing you to experience the natural charm of Osaka in a new and relaxing way, showcasing the city’s lesser-known natural beauty.
1-Day Walking Tour in Himeji : Castle, Garden and Aizome (Indigo Dyeing) / All Year Round
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Walking Tour in Himeji : Castle, Garden and Aizome (Indigo Dyeing) | |
| Period | All year round |
| Time | 09:30 – 17:30 |
| Meeting Place | JR Himeji Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥18,900 |
| Child Rate | ¥15,500 |
Discover the historical and cultural wonders of Himeji with our engaging day tour. Start your adventure at the magnificent Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and well-preserved grounds. Stroll through the tranquil Kokoen Gardens, where you can enjoy beautifully landscaped gardens and traditional tea houses. Conclude your tour with a hands-on aizome (indigo dyeing) experience, where you will learn the traditional Japanese art of indigo dyeing and create your own unique piece. This tour offers a perfect combination of history, nature, and cultural immersion, making for an unforgettable day in Himeji.
Bamboo Artistry and Zen Serenity: A Day of Tranquility with Ginkaku-ji in Kyoto / All Year Round
1 Day Tour
| Bamboo Artistry and Zen Serenity: A Day of Tranquility with Ginkaku-ji in Kyoto | |
| Period | All year round |
| Time | 09:00-16:30 |
| Meeting Place | JR Kyoto Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥19,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥13,000 |
Explore the cultural richness of Kyoto with a visit to Nanzenji, Ginkakuji, and a bamboo basket weaving experience. Start at Nanzenji, a grand Zen Buddhist temple known for its impressive Sanmon gate and beautiful rock gardens. Continue to Ginkakuji, the Silver Pavilion, where you can admire the elegant simplicity of its architecture and stroll through its exquisite moss garden. Finally, immerse yourself in a traditional bamboo basket weaving experience, where a skilled craftsman will guide you in creating your own beautiful and functional bamboo art, providing a hands-on connection to Japan’s artisanal heritage.
Kyoto Heritage Path – From Fushimi Inari’s Mystery to Kiyomizu Temple Majesty / All Year Round
1 Day Tour
| Kyoto Heritage Path – From Fushimi Inari’s Mystery to Kiyomizu Temple Majesty | |
| Period | All year round |
| Time | 09:00-17:00 |
| Meeting Place | JR Kyoto Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥17,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥13,000 |
Discover the essence of Kyoto with a visit to Fushimi Inari Taisha, the Gion district, and Kiyomizudera. Begin at Fushimi Inari Taisha, famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates leading up Mount Inari, creating a mystical and unforgettable path. Next, immerse yourself in the traditional charm of Gion, Kyoto’s historic geisha district, where you can wander through quaint streets lined with teahouses and possibly catch a glimpse of geiko and maiko. Conclude your journey at Kiyomizudera, a historic temple perched on a hillside, offering breathtaking views of Kyoto from its wooden terrace and featuring the renowned Otowa Waterfall.
1-Day Walking Tour : Traversing Kyoto’s Scenic West – Arashiyama to Kinkakuji / All Year Round
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Walking Tour : Traversing Kyoto’s Scenic West – Arashiyama to Kinkakuji | |
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| Period | All year round |
| Time | 09:00-17:00 |
| Meeting Place | JR Kyoto Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥17,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥13,000 |
Experience the enchanting beauty of Kyoto with a tour to Arashiyama and Kinkakuji. Begin your journey in Arashiyama, where you can stroll through the famous Bamboo Grove, visit the serene Tenryuji Temple, and enjoy the scenic views from the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. After immersing yourself in the natural splendor of Arashiyama, continue to Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion. Marvel at the pavilion’s stunning reflection in the surrounding pond and explore the meticulously maintained gardens. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and architectural beauty, providing a memorable glimpse into Kyoto’s cultural heritage.
Uji’s Romance: Byodo-in, Tea and the Legacy of Genji’s Timeless Tales / All YEAR Round
1 Day Tour
| Uji’s Romance: Byodo-in, Tea and the Legacy of Genji’s Timeless Tales | |
| Period | All year round |
| Time | 09:30-16:15 |
| Meeting Place | JR Uji Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥19,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥13,000 |
Delve into the cultural treasures of Uji with a visit to Byodoin, a traditional tea ceremony, and the Genji Museum. Begin at Byodoin, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning Phoenix Hall and serene garden setting. Next, participate in a traditional tea ceremony, where you will learn the intricate rituals of Japanese tea preparation and savor the delicate flavors of matcha. Conclude your journey at the Genji Museum, where you can explore exhibits dedicated to “The Tale of Genji,” one of Japan’s greatest literary works, gaining insights into Heian-era culture and aesthetics.
1-Day Walking Tour in Nara: Palace, Deer and Inkstick / All Year Round
1 Day Tour
| 1-Day Walking Tour in Nara: Palace, Deer and Inkstick | |
| Period | All Year Round |
| Time | 09:15 – 16:30 |
| Meeting Place | JR Nara Station |
| Adult Rate | ¥19,800 |
| Child Rate | ¥15,500 |
Explore the cultural and historical treasures of Nara with our immersive day tours. Begin your journey at the Nara Palace Historical Park, where you can delve into the ancient history of Japan’s first capital. Visit the awe-inspiring Todaiji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue, and wander through Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely. Experience the ancient art of inkstick making with a hands-on workshop, crafting your own traditional inkstick and learning about its significance in Japanese calligraphy. Conclude your tour at the tranquil Kasuga Taisha Shrine, offering a glimpse into Japan’s spiritual traditions. Each tour provides a unique and memorable exploration of Nara’s rich cultural heritage.
PRIVATE TOURS
We offer customizable tour options with experienced guides tailored to your itinerary. Whether you want us to create a unique tour or adjust our existing ones to suit your preferences, we’re here to help. Explore our website for a variety of private tours designed for a personalized experience, free from the stress of other guests. Feel free to reach out to us with any requests by clicking the inquiry button below.
Wherever your travels in Kobe lead, we hope you immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture, deep-rooted traditions, and breathtaking beauty. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to host you on one of our tours soon!
