Kobe is an exotic port city which retains an atmosphere reminiscent of Japan’s early westernization. The port grounds are home to attractions such as Harbor Land and the Meriken Park. Sannomiya, the gateway to Kobe, and Mt. Rokko, overlooking the entire city, are popular year-round destinations. Widely known are Motomachi with its sophisticated shops, and Nada for sake (Japanese wine) brewery. The city offers a wide range of international cuisine with history and background of multiple cultures flourishing here. The hillsides of Kitano,a residential district built for foreign settlers over 150 years ago, attract tourists from all around the world. Arima Hot Springs, the Akashi Straight Bridge and Himeji Castle, featured below, can be easily reached from Kobe.
Situated in south Hyogo Prefecture, Kobe is the prefecture’s capital and a government-ordinance-designated city.
Akashi Travel Guide
Known as site to the world's longest suspension bridge. The Japan Standard Time Meridian is set here.
Arima Hot Spring Travel Guide
Said to be the oldest hot spring in Japan, with spring waters colored reddish-brown. Nice place to taste past and present Japan.
Kitano Travel Guide
Not all, yet many of the 1000 houses first built here remain, and some are designated as Japan’s important cultural property.
Kobe Station Travel Guide
Best access to Motomachi and Meriken Park. Nearby are Kobe Crystal Tower, and the Duo Kobe underground shopping mall.
Meriken Park Travel Guide
On its grounds sit Kobe Port Tower, Kobe Maritime Museum and Great Hanshin Earthquake Memorial Park. The view at night is special.
Motomachi Travel Guide
One of Japan’s oldest shopping malls, Motomachi continues to attract shoppers with original brands and choice merchandise.
Nada Travel Guide
Located east to Sannomiya, Nada’s major attractions are Ouji Zoo, famous for pandas, and the HAT Kobe, a commercial complex.
Port Island Travel Guide
This man-made island built off shore Kobe port is home to many attractions and the Kobe Kachoen, a botanical garden and aviary.
Rokko Travel Guide
Overlooking Kobe is its oasis and get-away Mt. Rokko. Rich in greenery with a grand view of the city and the inland Seto Sea.
Sannomiya Travel Guide
The largest shopping arcade in Kobe. Day or night, shops and restaurants are filled with people coming from near and far.
Suma Travel Guide
A residential and resort area with quiet beaches and pine trees. Sea otters at the Suma Aqualife Park are kids’ favorite.
Takarazuka Travel Guide
The town, known for the all-female musical theater and school founded, is also an old yet popular hot spring resort.
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