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Kobe Tourist Information

Kobe is a beautiful port city in West Japan home to 1.5 million, lies just 20 minutes or so from Osaka and an hour's flight from Tokyo. Synonymous with style, mountains and its seafront setting, it is perhaps most famous for its namesake beef and offers a wealth of attractions for all visitors.

Please check the Kobe tourist information guide( Japanese Version/ English Version) for more information about Kobe City.

Distinctive Food Culture

Kobe is internationally renowned for its rich food culture, especially the world-famous “Kobe beef.” Known for its fine marbling and tender texture, Kobe beef offers a rich flavor and melt-in-the-mouth experience. Additionally, sake produced in the Nada region of Kobe benefits from pure water and traditional brewing techniques, resulting in a sake with a deep and refined taste.

Moreover, Kobe’s “Nankinmachi” is one of Japan’s three major Chinatown districts, offering a variety of Chinese cuisine and sweets in a vibrant, multicultural setting. As a historic port city that has embraced diverse foreign cultures, Kobe has also developed a range of Western-style dishes and sweets, reflecting its international heritage.
　　

Architectural Heritage of Kitano

The Kitano area in Kobe is historically significant as a district where many foreign residents lived from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. The area is known for its Western-style houses called “Ijinkan,” which serve as valuable cultural assets showcasing European architectural styles introduced to Japan.

These buildings are characterized by decorative exteriors and unique designs that symbolize Kobe’s history of international exchange. Today, they are preserved and utilized as popular tourist attractions, allowing visitors to experience both historical value and architectural beauty.
　　

Scenic Views from Mount Rokko

Mount Rokko offers panoramic views overlooking the city of Kobe, surrounded by seasonal natural beauty. During the day, visitors can enjoy serene views of Osaka Bay and the Seto Inland Sea. At night, the cityscape shines brilliantly, known as the “10 million dollar night view,” attracting numerous domestic and international tourists. This night view is recognized as one of Japan’s three major nightscapes.

Mount Rokko is not only popular for hiking and sightseeing but also serves as a place for learning about natural environments and geography. The harmonious blend of rich nature and urban scenery makes this area one of Kobe’s iconic landscape resources.
　　

Port of Kobe and Meriken Park

Since its opening in 1868, the Port of Kobe has played a vital role as one of Japan’s gateways to modernization and international exchange. As a hub for overseas trade, it quickly developed into a cosmopolitan city, enriched by the early introduction of Western culture and architecture.

Located along the waterfront, Meriken Park was developed on the site of the former “Meriken Wharf,” which once served as a docking area for foreign ships. Today, it is a spacious public park featuring iconic landmarks such as the Kobe Port Tower and Kobe Maritime Museum. With its open lawns and public art installations, the park offers a relaxing atmosphere that reflects Kobe’s international and welcoming spirit.

In recent years, the area has been revitalized with the addition of cafes, hotels, and commercial facilities, making it a popular spot not only for tourists but also for local residents. Combining historical significance, cultural charm, and modern urban amenities, the Port of Kobe and Meriken Park serve as symbolic spaces that connect the city’s rich past with its vibrant future.
　　