Things to do in Kobe

Activities, attractions and tours

A city skyline at night with illuminated buildings, a prominent tower, and a green-lit bridge.
A coastal cityscape with dense high-rise buildings, a harbor, and a distant mountain range.
A narrow street with traditional wooden buildings, a signboard, and a person taking a photo.
A busy urban street with tall buildings, various shops, and a prominent round building with advertisements.
A plate of grilled food, a bowl of soup, and a glass of beer on a red table.

Things to do

The Universal Studio in Osaka

Universal Studios Japan® Theme Park Admission with Transportation

HK$1,042
per adult
72% of travellers recommend
Universal Studios Japan® Theme Park Admission with Transportation
Osaka: teamLab Botanical Garden Entry Ticket

Osaka: teamLab Botanical Garden Entry Ticket

HK$98
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Osaka: teamLab Botanical Garden Entry Ticket
Osaka: Wakayama Cat Train, Seafood market, Hot Springs Tour

Osaka: Wakayama Cat Train, Seafood market, Hot Springs Tour

HK$478
per adult
Osaka: Wakayama Cat Train, Seafood market, Hot Springs Tour
Hiroshima & Miyajima by Bullet Train from Osaka

Hiroshima & Miyajima by Bullet Train from Osaka

HK$933
per adult
Hiroshima & Miyajima by Bullet Train from Osaka
Osaka: Family-Friendly Kimono & Yukata Experience at WARGO

Osaka: Family-Friendly Kimono & Yukata Experience at WARGO

HK$237
per adult
Osaka: Family-Friendly Kimono & Yukata Experience at WARGO
Pickleball in Osaka & Kyoto with Locals!

Pickleball in Osaka, Kobe & Kyoto with Locals!

HK$51
per adult
Pickleball in Osaka, Kobe & Kyoto with Locals!
Osaka: Dotonbori District Sightseeing Cruise & Beer Discount

Osaka: Dotonbori District River Cruise with Drink Discount

HK$98
per adult
76% of travellers recommend
Osaka: Dotonbori District River Cruise with Drink Discount
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What to do in Kobe

Stay near popular Kobe attractions

A waterfall surrounded by large rocks, a red bridge, and stone steps leading up to the bridge.

Arima Onsen

8.6/10 (903 reviews)
One of Japan's oldest hot spring resorts, Arima Onsen offers therapeutic "golden" and "silver" waters with distinct mineral properties. Stay overnight in a ryokan to fully experience this ancient swimming culture.
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Where to stay in Kobe

Find the best Kobe areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Kobe
Learn more about Kobe
A traditional Japanese temple with red and gold accents, a staircase leading up to the entrance, and a clear blue sky.

Sannomiya

Travellers choose Sannomiya for its abundant dining options. Hop aboard the metro at Sannomiya Hanadokeimae Station or Boeki Center Station and check out top sights like Ikuta Shrine.

A brightly lit tower with the text "Port of Kochi" at the top, a modern building with a curved facade, and a river with a bridge in the foreground.

Kobe City Centre

Travellers choose Kobe City Centre for its captivating waterfront views. Hop aboard the metro at Kyukyoryuchi Daimarumae Station or Motomachi Station and check out top sights like Sannomiya Shrine.

A coastal cityscape with modern buildings, a prominent red tower, and a mountainous backdrop.
Photo by 663highland
Open Photo by 663highland

Chuo Ward

You might take some time to check out the waterfront views in Chuo Ward. Spend some time visiting top spots like Ikuta Shrine, and catch the metro at Shinkobe Station or Sannomiya Hanadokeimae Station to see more of the area.

A forest with autumn foliage, a stone monument, and a pathway.
Photo by 663highland
Open Photo by 663highland

Arimacho

Discover Arimacho, memorable for its hot springs. Popular attractions in Arimacho include Arima Onsen and Tsuzumiga Falls, and you can see more of the area by hopping on the metro at Arima Onsen Station.

A large building with a stepped water feature in front.

Suma Ward

If you're spending time in Suma Ward, check out sights like Kobe Green Arena or Suma Aqualife Park Kobe and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Myohoji Station or Myodani Station.

A bustling street with neon signs, a tower, and traditional lanterns.

Osaka

A bridge with lights, a calm sea, and a sunset sky.

Akashi

A traditional Japanese castle with multiple tiers, surrounded by a stone wall and lush greenery.

Amagasaki

A snow-covered urban street at dusk with buildings and a railway track.
Photo by studio IRONY (Creative Commons Attribution 3.0)

Ashiya

A traditional Japanese building surrounded by lush greenery and a calm pond.

Ikeda

An airplane landing with its landing gear extended, approaching a runway with a mountainous backdrop.

Itami

A densely populated urban area with numerous houses, a curved road, and a bridge.

Nishinomiya

A traditional Japanese castle with multiple tiers and a stone base, surrounded by greenery.

Takarazuka

Frequently asked questions

Is Kobe worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Kobe is explore Arima Onsen. Check this major sight off your to-do list, then experience more of this area's culture and history.
How do I spend a day in Kobe?
Arima Onsen and Kobe Harborland are two good places to kick-start your holiday adventures. Remember to check out the dining and shopping options in Kobe while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kobe?
The top tourist attraction in Kobe is Arima Onsen, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Kobe?
You can easily visit leading attractions like Kobe Harborland, Kobe Ōji Zoo and Suma Beach with a three-day stay in Kobe. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stay a while longer and head to Osaka.
Is Kobe a walkable city?
With exciting neighbourhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city centre, Kobe is a good place to explore on foot. Wander between Kobe Harborland and Kobe Ōji Zoo. Then take a stroll around Chuo Ward, located 2 kilometres from downtown, and Sannomiya, which is about 0.16 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Kobe with kids?
Deciding what to do in Kobe with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're travelling with toddlers or teenagers, there are lots of family-friendly sights and activities to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Kobe for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Kobe, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Arima Main Road or Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum.
Are there free things to do in Kobe?
In Kobe, Kobe Harborland is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to enjoy the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a good way to explore the best free things to do in Kobe.

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