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.

More travel plans

Kobe: A 5-Day Adventure on a Budget

A trip to Kobe, Japan on a limited budget would include exploring tourist attractions such as the Kobe Municipal Arboretum and Kobe Port Tower for free and trying local street food, such as takoyaki and yakiniku, for a budget-friendly dining experience. Staying in hostels or budget hotels, such as J-Hoppers Kobe Guesthouse or Toyoko Inn Kobe Sannomiya, would also keep the trip affordable.

Kobe Kaleidoscope: A 2-Day Fun-Filled Journey

A trip to Kobe, Japan offers a perfect combination of family-friendly activities and cultural experiences. Embark on a thrilling journey at Harborland, an exciting waterfront area filled with shops, amusement parks, and a Ferris wheel boasting breathtaking views of the city. Explore the iconic Kobe Animal Kingdom, where kids can interact with various species of animals and enjoy entertaining shows, making this trip to Kobe a memorable and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

A Lovely Long Weekend in Kobe, Japan

A romantic trip to Kobe, Japan promises couples an unforgettable experience. Enjoy scenic views of the city from the top of Kobe Port Tower, take a romantic stroll along the picturesque Kobe Harborland, and indulge in the world-renowned Kobe beef at one of the city's top-rated restaurants. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Kobe has something to offer all types of couples.

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.