1-Day Walking Tour around Kobe : Mountains, Sea and Sake

When most people think of Japan, they picture Tokyo, Kyoto, or maybe Osaka. But few realize that Kobe—Japan’s historic gateway to the world—is just as rich in culture, beauty, and flavor. If you’re staying in the Kansai region, Kobe absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary.

This is an active walking tour designed for curious travelers who want to experience Kobe in a single day—its vibrant streets, hidden gems, and scenic landscapes. We’ll be moving a lot, using public transportation, exploring neighborhoods on foot, climbing stairs, boarding a ropeway, and traversing inclines and declines between sea and mountains. It’s an unforgettable journey—but one best enjoyed with comfortable shoes and a sense of adventure!

Kobe was one of the first Japanese cities to open to the outside world in the late 1800s—and it shows. Western-style architecture, Japan’s first mosque, and historic foreign settlements sit alongside serene Shinto shrines and timeless temples. The city is also home to one of Japan’s three major Chinatowns.

Nestled between the Rokko Mountains and Osaka Bay, Kobe offers a rare combination of nature and city life. You’ll go from sea breezes to mountain views in less than half an hour.

And while Kobe beef is world-famous, the city’s culinary and craft culture runs much deeper. Kobe is a leader in Japan’s sake industry and the heart of the country’s pearl processing trade.

Tour Highlights

• Mountains and the sea in one day: Take in the full landscape of Kobe—from panoramic mountaintop views to the bustling port area.
• Walking-intensive itinerary: Explore on foot, use local trains and buses, and board a ropeway up the mountains. Great for active travelers who want a deep dive into the city.
• Sake culture: Visit Japan’s top sake-producing district and learn about the brewing traditions that have made this region famous.
• Cultural blend: Discover Kobe’s unique mix of Japanese, Chinese, and Western influences all within walking distance.

Please Note:

This is a full-day walking tour that involves a lot of movement. We’ll be walking several kilometers throughout the day, navigating some stairs and hills, and using public transportation (local trains, buses, and ropeways). If you prefer a slower pace or minimal walking, this may not be the best fit—but if you're up for the adventure, we promise a rich and rewarding experience.

Review

Description

Our journey will begin at 09:30 and we will meet at Shin-Kobe Station. Our first stop is herb gardens right next to the station. Take the ropeway to the top of the hill, and along the way, as you gradually rise higher, you can see the beauty of the entire city little by little. 

Once we reach the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views along with the pleasant aroma of herbs and flowers. From there, we will slowly walk through one of Japan's largest herb gardens, where approximately 75,000 herbs and flowers of approximately 200 species bloom all year round.

After immersing ourselves in the tranquil beauty of these stunning gardens, we will make our way back to the ropeway station to prepare for our descent. Upon landing, we will set out on foot towards Kitano Ijinkan, where we will encounter a fascinating array of architectural styles. From elegant Western-style residences to modern structures and traditional Japanese houses, the diversity of designs will captivate our senses. Finally, we will arrive at the exotic Ijinkan street, where the unique blend of cultures and architectural influences creates an enchanting atmosphere unlike any other.

Continuing our stroll down the road, we will eventually arrive at the Starbucks located in the Kitano area. Renowned for its architectural charm and historical significance, this Starbucks is recognized as one of the tangible cultural properties in Japan. Step inside to discover its breathtaking beauty, both in its interior design and exterior facade. After soaking in the ambiance of the Starbucks, we will resume our journey towards the Ikuta Shrine. As one of the oldest shrines in the area, and possibly one of the oldest in Japan, Ikuta Shrine holds a profound historical significance. Prepare to be transported back in time as we explore the sacred grounds and learn about its rich cultural heritage.

After immersing ourselves in the serene atmosphere of Ikuta Shrine, we will venture into the lively heart of Kobe city to savour a delightful lunch amidst a myriad of culinary options. With an array of food choices to tantalize our taste buds, ranging from traditional Japanese cuisine to international delights, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Should you find yourself with spare time before our scheduled meeting, take the opportunity to wander through the vibrant streets, perhaps indulging in some shopping delights.

Our afternoon adventure begins with a visit to China Town, where we will dive into the vibrant Chinese atmosphere and explore its bustling streets. Following our exploration, we will venture to the port area of Kobe. Here, we will soak in the maritime charm and enjoy picturesque views of the harbour, observing the bustling activity of ships and boats.

After enjoying a relaxing time by the sea, our next destination is the famous sake brewery area in Japan, known as the Nada-gogo area. Here, we will have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the rich tradition of sake production and learn about the intricate process of brewing this beloved Japanese beverage. Additionally, we will have the chance to taste some sake varieties and savour the unique flavours firsthand. It promises to be an enriching experience as we delve into the world of sake and indulge in its exquisite taste.

We will return to Shin-Kobe Station together to say goodbye. However, if you would like to spend the rest of your day in the city centre, you are more than welcome. We will do our best to help you have a wonderful time in Kobe.

Disclaimer:  If Nunobiki Herb Gardens and Ropeway are closed, the itinerary will be changed to Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum.

Meetup Points

Shin-Kobe Station @ 09:30

You will see us as soon as you leave the Shinkansen station. We are waiting here, between the 7-Eleven and the cafe, in front of the directory. We will be holding up a sign that says "Snow Monkey Resorts."

Notes

• The times listed in the itinerary are for reference only and the actual tour may vary depending on actual conditions such as weather and trains.
• This is a walking tour that takes you outdoors for hours. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing. Please bring sunshade and rain protection if necessary.
• If you feel uncomfortable during the tour, please let us know. We will do our best to help you.
• This tour includes free time. We will make sure you know when and where to meet again. If you get lost or forget your meeting point, please call us immediately.

Included

• Entrance fee for Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden and Ropeway
• Train tickets required for the tour 
• 1 paid sake ticket
• Guided tour with an English speaking guide

Excluded

• Food and drinks
• Transportation costs before and after the tour
• 2nd and subsequent paid sake tickets