Outlined by mountains along Osaka Bay, Kobe is Japan’s sixth largest city and one of the nation’s most picturesque and multicultural cities. Its rich history comes from its longtime role as a maritime gateway to foreign traders and expatriate settlers.
One of the best things about this city is its relatively small size, which makes most sights and attractions easily accessible by foot. As a result, Kobe is a pleasant city to explore. Its main attractions include everything from high-quality cuisine and interesting museums to cable car rides with panoramic views to a bustling Chinatown and plenty of nature. Follow these tips to make the most out of your trip to Kobe.
Getting Around
You can travel the center of Kobe on foot, but the city also has great public transportation. The JR, Hankyū, and Hanshin railway lines run east to west through town.
The City Loop is a hop-on, hop-off retro-style bus that makes its way to many of Kobe’s main attractions and stations. It stops at Kobe Port Tower, Harborland, Chinatown, Kobe City Museum, Sannomiya, Kitano Ijinkan, Shin-Kobe Station, Sannomiya Bus Terminal, City Hall, Port Tower and Meriken Park. Buy a single ride for ¥260 or an all-day pass for ¥660. Showing your all-day pass will also score you discounts at over 30 attractions along the route.
Booking A Nice Hotel
Kobe offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets and travel styles. Choosing a Western-style international hotel, like the ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe hotel conveniently located near the Shin-Kobe rail station, is a safe bet for a pleasant stay.
Planning What to Do
You won’t want to miss the natural beauty that surrounds this city, including Mount Rokkō, the hot springs of Arima Onsen, and the Nunobiki Falls. After recharging in nature, it would be wise to try Kobe beef, a local delicacy offered in many restaurants. If you’re a night owl, enjoy yourself at various bars and nightspots.
During the day, soak in the history, culture, and art by visiting places like the Ikuta Shrine, one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan. You’ll also want to visit Kobe’s famous Chinatown, the Maritime Museum, and the Port Tower, which offers panoramic city views. If you like learning about culture in unique ways, take a self-guided tour through the historic Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum to learn all about Japan’s favorite alcoholic drink.
Purchasing Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can come in handy when you experience unexpected travel, health, or security issues on the way to or at your destination. Buying travel insurance shouldn’t be expensive. Though you probably won’t need it, you’ll be glad you have it when you do need it.
Travel insurance can cover lost baggage, flight cancellations and interruptions, theft, medical emergencies, and more. Exceptions apply, so read the fine print.
One good thing to find out is if your insurance plan will make direct payments to providers or if the company will reimburse you later. If it’s the latter, make sure you keep all documentation.
Now you’re ready to plan and book your trip to Japan!
A New Life Wandering 