Found along the west coast of Japan, Kobe is easily one of the most popular cities in the country. Known for its immense resilience following the devastating 1955 Great Hanshin Earthquake, this impressive city showcases the perfect blend of historical Japanese culture and tradition with international influences.
For those traveling from Australia, it is strongly recommended to complete your AUD to JPY currency conversion before heading off on your dream Japanese vacation, as it will significantly reduce any potential issues you may have with money on arrival. Ensure you utilize the services of legal and registered institutions when securing your vacation budget.
Kitano-cho
At the base of Mt Rokko, you will find Kitano-cho, a historical district within Kobe that was once home to foreign dignitaries and merchants from the mid-1800s until the early 20th century. This place is a popular stop in many Japan tours due to its unique architectural style. The neighborhood is filled with surprising Western-style homes and other buildings that offer an insightful peek into the city’s rich and colorful history and international influences.
Many of these well-preserved buildings are open to the public for a minimal entry fee, interspersed with stylish cafes and delicious restaurants.
Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle is Japan’s first recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site, officially classified in 1993. Just a short trip from Kobe’s city center, it is the perfect location for a fun-filled half-day trip out of the city.
The castle was first constructed in 1346 and has remarkably remained intact through various wars and natural disasters that have impacted the area over the past seven centuries. The castle is an impressive structure that acts as the perfect monument to Japan’s feudal history, the age of the famous Japanese Samurai warriors.
Arima Onsen
Arima Onsen is one of Japan’s three oldest hot springs and is considered one of the best in the country. This secluded and peaceful slice of paradise is the ideal place to bathe in the soothing and healing waters that offer plenty of benefits for your skin, muscles, and joints.
Alongside the area’s natural wonders, travelers can indulge in the rich artistic culture found here, including traditional bamboo crafts created in Arima and traditional performances by local Geishas.
Sorakuen Garden
In the heart of Kobe city is Sorakuen Garden, a natural oasis that offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern living within the thriving urban city. Completed a century ago, it is a wonderful example of the artistry that is quintessential of a classic Japanese garden.
The blooming garden is a sight to behold throughout the year; however, a spring azalea festival and an autumn chrysanthemum exhibit are annual must-attend events.
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens
The serene Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens are the largest in Japan, home to over 75,000 herbs and flowers from around 200 varieties. There are twelve different gardens in total, showcasing a spectacular range of seasonal flora in bloom, and they can be reached via a 10-minute ropeway ascent that offers an impressive panoramic view of the city.
Visitors to the gardens can stop by the Fragrance Museum, which features nearly 80 wonderfully scented essential oils that can be enjoyed in the herbal footbath. The gardens are open year-round to visitors of all ages.
Kinosaki Onsen
For nature lovers hoping to fully immerse themselves in the natural wonders of Japanese scenery, a visit to Kinosaki Onsen should be at the top of their list. Located in the northeast, it has a rich history of over 1,300 years, with seven spectacular public baths and lush willows surrounding town buildings along the river.
For many tourists, one of the most significant appealing factors of the hot springs found in Kinosaki Onsen is that all seven baths are open to tattooed bathers, unlike the majority of hot springs found across the country. The inclusive nature of the area makes it a superb location for a family adventure experience.
Yokoo Tandanori Museum
Yokoo Tandanori is one of Japan’s most well-known artists and has been standing in the limelight since the mid-1960s. Today, art lovers can view and appreciate nearly 3,000 pieces created by the man himself, alongside various exhibitions by other artists, at the Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art.
Found in the Nada Ward, the museum is free of charge for those under 18 and offers a number of educational and exciting lectures, workshops, and other fun activities that will appeal to visitors of all ages.
Rokko Garden Terrace
Kobe is said to be one of Japan’s three most beautiful cities at night. The best place to see a sight said to be worth 10 million dollars is at the top of Mount Maya or Mount Rokko. Standing 932m tall, Mt Rokko offers a mesmerizing panoramic view of the city skyline.
The Rokko Garden Terrace is the ideal place to relax in the evening after a casual stroll. Here, you can view the lush gardens of exotic buildings and enjoy the cozy and comfortable cafes in the area. Once the sun sets, your view is transformed into a spectacle of light, with a dazzling view of Kobe and Osaka below.
