Things to do in Kobe
Discover the best attractions and experiences Kobe has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Kobe's preserved streets and districts that tell the story of its cosmopolitan past.
Kitano Ijinkan District
A hillside area with late 19th-century Western-style houses that recall Kobe's foreign settlement era.
Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown)
A historic, bustling district rich with shops, aromas, and traditional street snacks.
Museums
Delve into Kobe’s maritime heritage, sake culture, and regional history at these engaging museums.
Kobe Maritime Museum
Learn about Kobe's role as a trading port and its ocean-faring history.
Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum
Discover the sake-making process and sample the local rice wine culture.
Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Museum
Reflect on the 1995 earthquake with thoughtful exhibits and memorials.
Kobe City Museum
Rich displays on Hyogo's and Kobe's regional history and art.
Religious Monuments
Visit sacred sites that showcase Kobe’s religious traditions and serene spaces.
Ikuta Shrine
A centuries-old Shinto shrine set in a tranquil urban green space.
Kobe Mosque
A center of Muslim worship and a symbol of Kobe's cultural diversity.
National & Theme Parks
Enjoy nature, scenic viewpoints, and family-friendly parks around Kobe and the Rokko area.
Setonaikai National Park
Coastal landscapes along the Seto Inland Sea with scenic coastal trails.
Rokko Garden Terrace
A hillside garden complex with panoramic views and casual eateries.
Kobe Animal Kingdom
An accessible zoo-park offering close encounters with animals in a compact layout.
Neighborhoods
Stroll through distinct Kobe districts that each have their own character and vibe.
Kitano-cho (Ijinkan District)
A charming hillside area with preserved foreign residences and cafes.
Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown)
A lively gateway neighborhood filled with shops and street foods.
Sannomiya
The bustling urban core with shops, eateries, and lively streets.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Kobe without spending a thing with scenic walks and public spaces.
Meriken Park waterfront stroll
Take in modern sculpture, harbor views, and the sea breeze.
Harbor promenades and public viewpoints
Walk along Kobe's harborfront to watch ships and skyline views.
Stroll through Sannomiya and Nankinmachi
Experience vibrant street life and seasonal festivals at no cost.
Gastronomy
Taste Kobe’s iconic flavors, from renowned beef to regional snacks.
Kobe beef dining
Indulge in tender wagyu beef prepared in various regional styles.
Akashiyaki tasting
Sample the soft, eggy dumplings associated with nearby Akashi.
Nada district sake tasting
Sample high-quality sake from Kobe's famous sake belt.
Nightlife
Experience Kobe after dark with riverside views, bars, and lively streets.
Sannomiya nightlife district
Bars, pubs, and live music along the central avenues.
Kobe Harborland by night
Seaside lights, riverside dining, and relaxed evening strolls.
Entertainment
Family-friendly venues and atmospheric spaces for a fun evening.
Kobe Port Tower
Iconic tower with observatory views and city lights.
Kobe Oji Zoo
A popular zoo for families with animal exhibits and shows.
Sports
Catch a local game or visit sports venues that shape Kobe’s athletic scene.
Noevir Stadium Kobe
Home stadium of Vissel Kobe, a hub for football fans.
Kobe track and field venues
Public facilities and tracks for a casual athletic experience.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the usual sights for a more leisurely or adventurous day.
Rokko Mountain hiking trails
Forest trails and scenic overlooks above the city.
Arima Onsen town stroll
A traditional onsen town with charming streets and baths.
Maiko Seafood Port visits (Maiko Park outlooks)
Quiet coastal viewpoints and seaside ambience a short trip from central Kobe.