Kobe in 3: A Romantic Guide

Fall in love all over again amidst the enchanting beauty of Kobe, Japan.

22 April 2023

A romantic trip to Kobe, Japan promises a perfect blend of traditional and modern experiences. Indulge in exquisite Kobe beef, relax in hot springs, and take a stroll hand-in-hand through the vibrant Kobe Harborland. Don't forget to visit Mount Rokko for stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Sights and Sounds of Kobe

  • Check into the luxurious Hotel La Suite Kobe Harborland, offering stunning views of the harbor and city
  • Head to the iconic Kobe Harborland, a shopping and entertainment district with a Ferris wheel and restaurants galore
  • Take in the grandeur of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, the world's longest suspension bridge, while strolling along Maiko Marine Promenade
  • Visit the Kitano Ijinkan area, a historic district with Western-style homes built during the Meiji era
  • Experience Kobe's renowned beef at a local restaurant, such as Steak Aoyama or Ishida Kobe Beef
Day 2

A Day of Romance and Culture

  • Start the day with a tranquil visit to Sorakuen Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with teahouses and ornate bridges
  • Head to the Nunobiki Herb Garden, a colorful and fragrant spot with panoramic views of the city
  • Visit the Kobe City Museum, which showcases the city's history, art, and cultural treasures
  • Take a romantic cruise on the Kobe Bay Harbor, enjoying sunset views and dining on local cuisine
  • End the day with a relaxing soak in an onsen at Arima Onsen, a hot springs town just a short train ride from Kobe
Day 3

Indulging in Kobe's Food and Drink Scene

  • Start the day with a visit to the Kobe Central Wholesale Market, where locals go to source fresh seafood and produce
  • Take a sake-tasting tour at a local brewery, such as Hakutsuru Sake Brewery or Kobe Shushinkan Brewery
  • Enjoy lunch at Kobe's Chinatown, sampling steamed buns, dumplings, and other Chinese cuisine
  • Take a guided food tour of Nankinmachi, a street lined with izakayas, bars, and tiny eateries serving up local specialties
  • End the trip by raising a toast to Kobe's vibrant nightlife at a bar or club in Sannomiya.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Kobe, Japan by plane is to fly into Kansai International Airport (KIX) and take the airport limousine bus directly to Kobe Station. This takes about 65 minutes and costs approximately 1,850 yen.

Car

If you are driving to Kobe, the easiest route is to take the Hanshin Expressway from Osaka. Depending on traffic, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to reach Kobe city center.

Train

If you prefer to travel by train to Kobe, the best option is to take the Shinkansen from Tokyo or Osaka to Shin-Kobe Station. This takes approximately 2 hours from either city and costs around 14,000 yen one way.

Boat

While there are no direct boat services to Kobe, you can take a ferry from Osaka to nearby port cities such as Kobe Airport or Kobe-Nishi Port. From there, you can take a bus or train to the city center.

Bus

If you are on a budget, the best way to get to Kobe by bus is to take a highway bus from Tokyo or Osaka. From Tokyo, it takes about 9 hours and costs around 9,000 yen. From Osaka, it takes just over an hour and costs about 1,800 yen.

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Kobe on a Budget: The Ultimate Day Trip Guide

Kobe on a budget? No problem! From strolling the atmospheric streets of Kitano to visiting the city's famous Kitano-cho mansions, exploring the Kobe City Museum, or waking around the Meriken Park, there are plenty of budget-friendly things to do in Kobe. You can also enjoy a variety of delicious and affordable meals, such as Kobe beef burgers, sushi, and street food, and stay in affordable accommodation like hostels or capsule hotels.

Quirky Kobe: A 4-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Embark on a delightful family friendly trip to Kobe, Japan, where you can experience a perfect blend of culture, nature, and entertainment. Explore the charming streets of Kitano, home to beautifully preserved Western-style houses, before immersing yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of Harborland, an urban waterfront district with an array of shops and restaurants. Take a scenic hike up Mount Rokko, marvel at the panoramic city views and indulge in a relaxing soak at one of the famous hot springs for an unforgettable family adventure.

Kobe on a Budget: A 2 Day Adventure!

A trip to Kobe, Japan on a limited budget is still possible with careful planning. Consider staying in a budget-friendly hostel and taking advantage of the city's public transportation system. Don't miss the opportunity to try Kobe beef, which can be found at local restaurants at a reasonable price.

3 Days in Kobe: Food, Culture, and Nature

As a tourist in Kobe, Japan, visitors can indulge in a unique blend of modern and traditional Japanese culture. The city is famous for its delicious beef, stunning waterfront area, and vibrant nightlife scene. From exploring the historic Kitano district to soaking in hot springs and enjoying local sake tasting, Kobe offers a wide range of experiences for travelers.