The 16 things to do in Kobe

Are you passing through Kansai? Don't miss the 16 essential things to do in Kobe!

Located in Osaka Bay, the city of Kobe was partially destroyed by a powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake on the Richter scale, which struck the region in 1995. Rebuilt since then, the capital of the Hyogo Prefecture — with its one and a half million inhabitants — attracts many visitors every year to the famous Kansai region.

If Kobé often visits one day at the start of Osaka , the 6th city of the archipelago is no doubt worth it for a longer time. Known for its gastronomy, its picturesque landscapes and its international port, Kobe has a lot to offer to its many visitors. Whether you like nature or city, Kobe remains a destination not to be missed in Japan.

Is your kimono ready? Here are the 16 things to do in Kobe!

1. Ikuta Shrine

In the center of Kobe, is the oldest shinto shrine in Japan, dating from more than 18 centuries: the Ikuta sanctuary . The latter, somewhat trivial externally, nevertheless marked the history of the country.

It would have been built in 201 by the Empress Jingu . Several centuries later, an emperor appointed 40 families to take care of the temple, called the Kande . Japanese characters, or kanjis , associated with this term, pronounce Kobe and are thus the origin of the name of the city.

2. The Great Buddha of Hyogo

Less spectacular than those of Nara and Kamakura, the visit Great Buddha of Hyogo , or Nofuku-ji in Japanese, remains nenaless one of the essential things to do in Kobe.

This Buddhist temple Tendai is located in the borough of Hyogo and welcomes one of the largest Buddha of Japan, also called the Daibutsu . You will enjoy finishing your visit in the pretty gardens that surround the temple.

3. The Nankinmachi

Nankinmachi is the main Chinese neighborhood in the Kansai region. It brings together one of the most important Chinese communities in Japan. It is the ideal destination to make some shopping and eat on the thumb.

And if you have the chance to visit Japan during the Chinese New Year, take a tour in the Nankinmachi district to attend the festivities.

4. Sannomiya

If you want to fill your souvenir suitcase in any kind, take the direction of the Sannomiya district, bordered by the Ikuta River. Many shopping galleries and good restaurants await you in this lively neighborhood until late evening.

5. Le Mont Rokko

Ascension of the Mont Rokko is one of the most important activities to do in Kobe. In the northeast of Kobe, this mountain peaks at 931 meters above sea level and offers a spectacular view of the city and the bay of Osaka.

Many sport and cultural activities are at your disposal on the mountain. In winter, ski lovers can even enjoy a friendly snow park .

6. The Tower of Kobe

To take height, go to the panoramic platform of the famous Kobe Tour located in Meriken Park. This is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular discoveries to be made in Kobe.

Inaugurated in 1963 , this city symbol offers a breathtaking view of Kobe and Osaka Bay, perched at 108 meters from the ground.

7. Nunobiki Falls

A few blocks from the city centre are the Nunobiki Falls , considered divine by the local population. It should be noted that these falls have a great place in Japanese art, and that many writers of the rising Sun Empire refer to them in their novels.

8. The western quarter of Kobe

At the foot of Mont Rokko, around Kitano Street, Yamamoto and Kitano Oranda-zaka, are the former Western diplomatic residences. Some are now transformed into a museum and are accessible to the public. Others were ranked among the Important cultural property Japan.

9. The aromatic garden of Kobe

Near the waterfalls of Nunobiki, on the heights of Kobe, is the aromatic garden Japan's most important. Come and get drunk with a thousand sweet odors, cleared by the 75,000 plants and flowers , 14 botanical gardens the park has. On the same occasion you will enjoy a nice view of the port of the city.

10. Onsen

Taking a bath in the hot waters of a hot spring is one of the essential activities to do in Kobe. It's okay! On the slopes of Mont Rokko, one of the 3 oldest sources in Japan is located.

♪ Arima Onsen They are more than 1300 years old! Do not hesitate to spend the night in one of the many ryokans to discover the traditional way of life of Japanese people.

11. The port of Kobe

Only 5 minutes walk from the station Minato Motomachi , is the second trade port of Japan. Enjoy a walk in the Meriken Park or a cruise on the bay to discover the wonderful city of Kobe.

Take a stop at the Maritime Museum, as well as the 1995 earthquake memorial. Ideal for a walk at the end of the day by the sea, the district of port of Kobe has many shops, restaurants, as well as a large wheel to admire the city once again.

12. Egeyama Park

If you have the chance to visit Kobe in the spring, go to the Egeyama Park to admire dozens of cherry trees in flowers, while enjoying a spectacular view of the city.

13. Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

Walk on one of the longest suspended bridges in the world and enjoy a breathtaking view. With 3911 meters, the Akashi Kaikyo bridge connects the Maiko area to Awaji Island. Do not hesitate to go there at night, to enjoy the games of lights.

14. The beach of Suma

Want a relaxing afternoon with family or friends? Preach yourself on the sand of the beach of Suma and take a good time in the nearby sea amusement park. You will find the largest aquariums in Japan. Your children will appreciate this visit!

15. Sake Brewery Street

Tasteing the famous Sake is one of the most important things to do in Kobe. Since the 18th century, many breweries have settled in a street nicknamed Sakagura-no-michi (Sake Brewery Street, Japanese). You will discover several museums of sake, and can make some tastings. Always with moderation of course!

16. Kobe beef

For meat lovers, don't miss a tasting of Kobe beef. This tasty and delicate meat comes from a cross between Japanese beef Wagyu and the bovine breed Holstein. This culinary specialty has made Kobe famous worldwide.

To do also in Kobé

• Visit the Akashi Castle
• Spend a family day at Kobé Zoo
• Discover the observatory of Rokko Shidare
• Take it cable car Rokkō Arima
• Visit Jun’ichiro Tanizaki Museum

How do I go to Kobé?

By plane

Kobe has an international airport, but there is no direct flight from Paris . Air France and Nippons Airways offer flights, with stopover Tokyo .

Note that you will need at least 4 p.m. flight, including stopover to Kobe.

For rates, count more 1000€ for a return to economic class. To get the best prices, it is therefore advisable to use a flight comparison as Ulysses , and always book his tickets at least two months in advance.

By train

From Tokyo

Another solution is to land in Tokyo and borrow it Shinkansen , to get to Kobe in a little less than 3 hours . And no worries, this high speed train is renowned for its cleanliness and punctuality.

From Kyoto to Osaka

Know that there are also trains for Kobe, from Kyoto (about 55 minutes) and Osaka (in only 25 minutes).

By car

If driving to the left doesn't bother you, you can perfectly opt for it car rental to reach Kobe. For this, your French permit, accompanied by a certified Japanese translation, is necessary.

Attention : make sure the car is equipped with a GPS. In Japan, all panels are in Kanjis !

Where to stay in Kobé?

If you have planned to visit Kobe, you will naturally seek in which district house on site . Prefer the central area of Sannomiya, the very chic Kitano district or the very lively port area. With their many restaurants, shops and tourist attractions nearby, they will allow you to fully enjoy the atmosphere of Kobe.

Attention, however, as in all Japan, housing prices can be high in Kobe and we strongly advise to compare prices, before booking. If you want a classic hotel room, don’t hesitate to use a hotel room Compare hotels .

If, on the contrary, you want to stay in a more intimate place, turn to the Airbnb . From home in the pure Japanese style to the design studio, everyone will find his happiness.