KOBE, JAPAN Travel Guide | Happy Trip

Kobe, located about 35 kilometers west of Osaka, is Japan's seventh largest city. Aside from being one of the country's major international trading ports, Kobe is also well known for its European-style architecture and well-marbled Wagyu beef. There are numerous ways to get to Kobe from Osaka, and one efficient option is to take the JR train from Osaka-Omeda station. At Osaka-Omeda station, proceed to the JR Kobe Line platform and take the special rapid service train. The train ride will take about 40 minutes. The most convenient way to get around Kobe is by using the City Loop Sightseeing Bus, which stops at all major sightseeing attractions of the city. We recommend to purchase the one-day or two-day bus ticket that offers unlimited travel. If you are planning to spend a day or two at Kobe, check out this quick travel guide. Ikuta Shrine is a Shinto shrine conveniently located just a few minutes walk from Kobe Sanomiya station. It is said to be one of the oldest shrines in Japan dating back to the 3rd century. This place is popular for marriage ceremonies as well as various festivals and celebrations. Entrance to the grounds is free of charge. Kitano-ijin became the residential area for foreign merchants and diplomats when the port of Kobe opened to foreign trade during the late 19th century. This part of Kobe has over a dozen European-style buildings which have been preserved and renovated into museums. Visitors will enjoy its unique surroundings along with its numerous cafes and restaurants. If you are using the City Loop Sightseeing Bus, get off at bus stop number 10. Kobe Harborland is a vibrant entertainment and shopping area along the main waterfront of Kobe's port area. Visitors will find a variety of restaurants and cafes as well as numerous shopping complexes and amusement attractions. This place is a stone's throw away from JR Kobe station but if you will be using the City Loop Sightseeing Bus, get off at bus stop number 2. Nankinmachi is Kobe's Chinatown neighborhood where visitors will enjoy numerous street food stalls, Chinese restaurants and shopping options. This area was developed by Chinese merchants who arrived in Japan during the late 19th century. Nankinmachi is quite vibrant and busy year-round but is especially popular during Chinese New Year, the Spring Festival and the Mid-Autumn Festival. When taking the City Loop Sightseeing Bus, get off at bus stop number 4. Aside from Kobe Harborland, shoppers can explore the wide variety of shopping options at Sanomiya and Motomachi shopping streets. For a more detailed look at these areas, check out our separate shopping guide video by clicking the link on the description box below. Sampling the high-class Kobe beef in its hometown is absolutely one experience you should not miss when visiting Kobe. Kobe beef is known for its flavor, tenderness and well-marbled texture. It is part of the Wagyu beef family from the Tajima lineage of Japanese black cattle. A popular way to enjoy this prized delicacy is at a teppanyaki restaurant where the chef prepares the meat on an iron plate in front of diners.