Home > Tours > Kobe > Kobe City Tour & Hidden Gems

Kobe’s Essence: From Shrines to Skyline

red ferry's wheel
red ferry's wheel
A row of orange tori tori tori tori tori tori tori tori tori tori tori tori
A row of orange tori tori tori tori tori tori tori tori tori tori tori tori

Discover Kobe's blend of tradition and modernity in this 4-hour tour. Visit the historic Ikuta Shrine, stroll through a serene Japanese garden, explore hidden gems, vibrant shopping streets, and finish with stunning waterfront views at Meriken Park.

¥6,250 per person

*price is for 4 pax

  • Private tour

  • Up to 8 PAX

  • Recommended start time: 2:00 pm

  • Duration: 4 hours

  • Free for children under 12 years old

Kobe

Walking Tour

Public Transportation

  • English

  • Spanish

  • Catalan

Private Tour

  • Filipino

  • Bisaya

  • Japanese

a ferris wheel in the middle of a city at night

Description

Let’s embark on an exciting journey through the heart of Kobe, where tradition meets modernity in a vibrant and unforgettable way. Our adventure begins at the historic Ikuta Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines, nestled peacefully in the center of the bustling city. Here, you’ll experience the tranquility and spiritual atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the urban surroundings, offering a serene start to your journey.

From there, we’ll venture into a hidden gem: a traditional Japanese garden tucked away in the heart of Kobe. This oasis of calm, with its meticulously designed landscapes, offers a quiet retreat where you can unwind and appreciate the delicate beauty of Japanese garden art, a perfect counterpoint to the city’s lively streets.

Next, we’ll explore some of Kobe’s hidden treasures. These lesser-known spots provide a glimpse into the city’s unique culture and charm that most tourists might miss. You’ll uncover the soul of Kobe through these intimate, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

As we transition from the quiet corners of the city to its lively center, we’ll roam through vibrant shopping streets filled with energy and excitement. Motomachi Shotengai and other bustling areas offer the perfect opportunity to experience the local culture firsthand, where you can browse for souvenirs, sample delicious street food, and interact with the friendly locals.

Our journey culminates at Meriken Park, a striking waterfront area that blends modern art, architecture, and stunning views of Kobe’s harbor. Stroll along the water’s edge, admire the famous Kobe Port Tower, and take in the picturesque skyline as the sun sets over the city.

And to complete your Kobe experience, we offer assistance in reserving a spot at a renowned Kobe beef restaurant, where you can indulge in the city’s most famous delicacy. Please note that the price of the meal is not included in the tour, but we’ll make sure you have a seamless reservation to enjoy this unforgettable culinary experience.

Itinerary

Ikuta Shrine

Ikuta Shrine is a peaceful Shinto shrine in Kobe, known for its serene atmosphere and traditional architecture. It offers a tranquil retreat amidst the city, with lush surroundings and a history that dates back over 1,800 years.

Sorakuen Garden

Sorakuen Garden is a serene Japanese landscape garden in Kobe, featuring ponds, stone bridges, and lush greenery. It's a peaceful escape within the city, offering visitors a tranquil stroll through its beautifully designed natural scenery.

Shrine in the Mountains

Hidden gem #1 is a small, tranquil shrine tucked away from the busy streets of Kobe. With its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings, it offers a quiet spot to reflect and connect with local history and spirituality. This hidden gem is a glimpse into Kobe's lesser-known sightseeing spots, making it a special stop on the tour.

Sightseeing Spot

A scenic spot offering panoramic views of Kobe’s skyline and harbour. It's a perfect place to enjoy the city's beauty, especially at sunset, and is a quiet escape from the more crowded tourist areas. This hidden gem adds a touch of romance and serenity to the tour.

Kobe's Chinatown

Nankinmachi, Kobe’s Chinatown, is a bustling area known for its vibrant streets, colourful architecture, and diverse food options. It’s a district where you can enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine, explore unique shops, and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Motomachi Shopping Street

A lively, charming area with a blend of traditional and modern shops. Known for its unique boutiques, cafes, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a great place to explore local fashion, souvenirs, and delicious treats.

Meriken Park

Meriken Park is a scenic waterfront area in Kobe, featuring modern landmarks, open green spaces, and beautiful views of the harbour. It’s a relaxing spot to stroll, enjoy outdoor art installations, and take in the city’s maritime charm.

Optional: Kobe Beef Restaurant

Experience the culinary delight of Kobe beef with an optional visit to a top Kobe beef restaurant. We can arrange a reservation for you to savour this world-renowned, tender, and flavorful beef, whether for lunch or dinner. It’s the perfect way to indulge in a truly authentic local dining experience.

orange temple
orange temple
a circular shaped walkway
a circular shaped walkway
Entrance Ticket Prices
  • Sorakuen Garden ¥300

Estimated Transportation Expenses

On this tour, we will use a taxi to reach the hidden gem spots. The average cost per person is around ¥1,000.

What's Not Included?

Entrance ticket prices, transportation costs, and estimated meal expenses

What's Included?

Guide in your chosen language and a 4-hour private tour

Meeting Point

Meeting point is at San Kita Amore Park.

How to get there

When you arrive at JR Sannomiya Station, exit at the east gate, turn left, and cross the pedestrian towards Hankyu Sannomiya.

When arriving at Hankyu Sannomiya, go through the east exit and you'll find the meeting point.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/o1KHFepCxjLQzcgZ7

Landmark/s

There is a Matsumoto Kiyoshi next to the park.

If you wish to be picked up and dropped off at the hotel feel free to inform us.