How to Spend ONE or TWO DAYS in Kobe, Japan: The Best 1 or 2-Day Itinerary
Wondering how to make the most of your short trip to Kobe? You’re in good hands!
After traveling Japan extensively, we think Kobe is one of the most relaxed, scenic, and easy-to-navigate cities for a quick escape. From mountain views and modern art museums to mouthwatering beef and centuries-old traditions, Kobe offers more variety than you might expect.
This flexible itinerary includes the city’s top sights, guided tours that add real insight, and food stops you’ll still be thinking about long after you’ve left. Whether you’ve got one day or two, we’ve laid it all out so you can spend less time planning and more time soaking up the flavors and charm that make Kobe unforgettable. Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Kobe was this private walking tour! Our local guide helped us customize our itinerary so we could see Kobe’s best sights, and we learned so much along the way.
Itinerary Overview
Kobe is a compact, scenic city that’s easy to explore in a day or two, with just the right mix of cultural charm and coastal relaxation. If you’re short on time, day one gives you a well-rounded intro to the city, with mountain views, historic Kitano, waterfront vibes, and a Kobe beef dinner overlooking the skyline. Add a second day to explore seaside architecture and dive into Kobe’s traditions with a guided tour through the historic Nada district.
The city is well-connected by public transit, especially the Hanshin Line, and its walkable neighborhoods make getting around a breeze without a rental car. Short taxi rides fill in any gaps, and many tours include central meeting points or hotel pickup. Whether you’re in town for a quick visit or a cultural deep dive, this itinerary makes planning easy, so you can fully enjoy Kobe’s sights, bites, and flavors.
Day 1: Kick things off with a private walking tour, then explore Kitano, shop along the harbor, and savor a Kobe beef dinner with skyline views. End the night with a rooftop drink at VIEW BAR.
Day 2: Visit a seaside art museum, then dive into local flavor with a sake-tasting tour and street food dinner in Chinatown. Cap it off with a peaceful nighttime ride on the Mosaic Ferris Wheel.
Day 1
Breakfast – Blue Bottle Coffee
Ease into your day at Blue Bottle Coffee, a serene, design-forward café just a short walk from the Kitano district. It opens at 8 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a slow breakfast before the morning tour. The sleek wooden interiors and calm atmosphere make it an ideal first stop, especially with a pour-over in hand and a flaky pastry on the side.
We loved how this location blends style with substance. The coffee is excellent, the staff knows their brews, and the natural light makes the space feel warm and unhurried. It’s also conveniently located near bus lines and just minutes from Kitano Ijinkan, making it the perfect starting point for a full day of exploring Kobe’s charming hillside neighborhoods.
Morning – Explore Kobe with a Local Guide
Trying to cram too much into one day in a new city can feel chaotic, especially in a place like Kobe, where the top sights are scattered between the mountains and the sea. That’s why we booked this private walking tour, and it made everything feel way more doable and fun.
We went with the 10 am to 2 pm time slot, which gave us plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. Our guide, Yama, was lovely, super friendly, and full of local insight. He customized the route based on what we were into, and it felt like hanging out with a very knowledgeable friend.
We kicked things off with a scenic ride on the Shin-Kobe Ropeway, passed by Nunobiki Falls and gawked at the top of Mt. Rokko with its sweeping bay views. Then we wandered back down through the peaceful Nunobiki Herb Garden—yes, it smells amazing!
From there, we visited the Earthquake Memorial Park, which was moving and so important to see, and wrapped up in Kitano Ijinkan-gai, a hillside neighborhood filled with 19th-century Western-style mansions and hidden cafes. Yama even helped us find a cozy spot nearby for a traditional teishoku lunch (not included, but so worth it).
Striking the perfect balance between local insight and laid-back exploring, this tour gave us a real feel for Kobe without any of the usual first-day overwhelm. It’s a flexible, personalized way to kick off your visit—just read the glowing reviews here if you still need convincing!
Book this private walking tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
Early Afternoon – Explore Kitano at your own pace
After the tour wraps up at 2 pm, take the next hour or so to wander through Kitano Ijinkan-gai on your own. This hillside neighborhood is filled with 19th-century Western-style mansions that once housed foreign diplomats and merchants. Several of them are open to the public as museums, and if one caught your eye during the tour, now’s your chance to go inside—admission is typically about $3–$5 USD (500–700 JPY) per house.
If you’re in the mood to relax instead, grab a seat at Sola Cafe, tucked nearby on a quiet corner. The bright, glassed-in conservatory feels like a little garden retreat—perfect for a coffee break before heading downhill toward the waterfront or your next stop in the city.
Late Afternoon – Head to the harbor for shopping and skyline views
Plan to leave Kitano around 3:30 pm and hop in a taxi or catch a quick 10-minute train ride down to Kobe Harborland, a breezy waterfront district that’s perfect for a laid-back late afternoon. You’ll have about two hours to shop, stroll, or simply soak in the views—think sea breeze, city skyline, and some of the best people-watching in town.
Start at Umie, a massive shopping complex made up of three main sections. The Mosaic area is the highlight—it hugs the water with a wooden boardwalk, casual cafes, and great harbor views. You can browse everything from cute local boutiques to stylish Japanese fashion and souvenirs, or just take a slow wander along the promenade. The skyline is on full display here, with Kobe Port Tower and the red steel arcs of the maritime museum standing tall across the bay.
Even if shopping’s not your thing, Harborland has a relaxed vibe that makes it easy to enjoy. Street performers often pop up near the water, and there are plenty of benches if you just want to sit and take it all in. As the light begins to fade, you’ll catch one of the best views in town—golden hour over the harbor, with the city slowly glowing into evening.
Dinner – Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel
After a relaxing stroll through Harborland, wrap up the day with dinner and a view at the Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel, one of the city’s most scenic dining spots. This waterfront hotel has four restaurants, but we went for the standout: Oriental, a refined steakhouse where you can finally try the real deal—Kobe beef, grilled to perfection and served with elegance. It’s a splurge-worthy experience in a setting that feels just as special, with panoramic views over the harbor and skyline.
If steak isn’t quite your thing, head to the hotel’s third-floor restaurant, All Flags, which offers a buffet-style dinner and equally stunning views. The vibe is more relaxed, but still polished, and the variety means everyone finds something they love. It’s popular in the evenings, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation at All Flags here in advance. Either way, dining here is a memorable highlight of your first day in Kobe, especially as the city lights begin to shimmer across the water.
Evening – Cap off the night with a panoramic city view at VIEW BAR
After dinner, take the elevator up to the top floor of the Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel and treat yourself to one last hidden gem—VIEW BAR. This refined rooftop spot lives up to its name, offering one of the best panoramic views in the city. With the harbor glittering below and Kobe’s skyline stretching out in every direction, it’s the perfect place to wind down.
Settle into the sleek indoor lounge or grab a seat on the open-air terrace to feel the sea breeze as you sip something special. The bar has a thoughtful drink list, with Japanese classics that pair perfectly with the view. It’s quiet, elegant, and a memorable way to reflect on today’s adventures.
Day 2
Morning – Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art
If you’ve got a second day to spend in Kobe—lucky you! Start your morning with something a little quieter and more reflective at the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art, a striking modern building designed by renowned Japanese architect Tadao Ando. The museum opens at 10 am (note: closed Mondays), giving you a leisurely start to the day.
Inside, you’ll find rotating exhibitions of both Japanese and international modern art, all housed in a calming, light-filled space that’s as much about atmosphere as it is about the artwork. After browsing the galleries, take a walk along the Art Promenade, an open-air sculpture path that runs beside the waterfront with lovely harbor views. There’s also a small café inside if you’d like to take a break before moving on.
We recommend having a big breakfast at your hotel or nearby before arriving, since lunch options near the museum are limited and you’ll be heading straight to your next activity afterward. Plan to leave the museum around 11:45 am—from here it’s a quick 10-minute taxi ride or Hanshin Line train ride to Uozaki Station, where your sake-tasting adventure begins.
Grab a lunchtime snack
Since lunch options around Uozaki Station are pretty limited, and there’s not much time for a full sit-down meal before the tour, we recommend grabbing a quick bite nearby.
Coop Mini Uozaki is a convenient go-to, offering everything from bento lunch boxes to onigiri (rice balls) and plenty of easy snacks. It’s open daily and just a short walk from the station. Another great takeaway option is Grumpy kitchen, known for its hearty meat pies—perfect if you’re craving something warm and filling. Just keep in mind that Grumpy Kitchen is closed on Sundays and Mondays, so plan accordingly.
Both spots are just a minute’s walk from the Uozaki Station ticket gate, which also happens to be the meeting point for your afternoon tour. Grab what you need and enjoy a low-key lunch nearby before kicking off the next experience.
Afternoon – Dive into Kobe’s sake culture with a guided tasting tour
Sake can feel intimidating if you’ve only ever sipped it at a restaurant—there’s so much variety, and the labels don’t always make things clearer. That’s why we joined this small-group tasting tour in Japan’s most famous sake-producing region, and it was a fun, hands-on way to learn the basics (and beyond).
The tour kicks off at 1 pm at Uozaki Station, where you’ll meet your guide. We were lucky to have Hiro, who was warm, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about all things sake. Over the next few hours, you’ll visit three to four historic breweries in Kobe’s Nada district, including Sakuramasamune, Hamafukutsuru, and Kiku-Masamune, each with its own unique story, brewing style, and flavor profile.
We learned how sake is made, from traditional kimoto techniques to modern innovations, and sampled a wide variety of brews—some seasonal, some citrus-infused, and all surprisingly distinct.
What really elevated the experience was how Hiro walked us through sake tasting etiquette and explained how to identify different flavor profiles. Even if you’ve never had the beverage before, you’ll leave with a new appreciation, and likely a few favorites.
Definitely wear good walking shoes, as you’ll be on your feet between stops. Whether you’re a curious beginner or already a sake fan, this was one of the most fun and educational parts of our trip. Read the five-star reviews here that say it all—don’t miss this tour!
Book this tour and taste sake from Kobe’s most historic breweries!
Dinner – Savor Chinatown’s sizzling street eats
After your sake tour wraps up around 4:30 pm, make your way to Nankinmachi for dinner, the city’s compact, colorful, and wonderfully walkable Chinatown district. It’s an easy 15-minute direct train ride to Motomachi Station, and from there, just a couple of minutes on foot to the heart of the action.
The streets are lined with casual food stalls and small eateries serving up everything from steamed buns and gyoza to ramen, mapo tofu, and skewers hot off the grill. It’s lively but not overwhelming—great for a relaxed dinner where you can mix, match, and graze your way through different bites.
For something more filling, we loved KANOU, a sit-down spot serving fantastic yakiniku with an English menu. And of course, if you’ve still got Kobe beef on your mind, there are plenty of highly rated steakhouses nearby—you really can’t miss them!
Whether you go for quick bites or a full feast, Nankinmachi is a flavorful, low-key way to wind down your evening. The atmosphere is festive, the food is unforgettable, and it’s the kind of place where you’ll find yourself saying, “Okay, just one more snack…”
Evening – Ride the Harborland Ferris Wheel at Mosaic
To cap off your second day in Kobe, take a gentle spin on the Mosaic Ferris Wheel—just a 10-minute walk from Chinatown and a surprisingly peaceful way to soak in the city one last time. The ride lasts about 15 minutes and offers sweeping nighttime views over the port, Mount Rokko, and Kobe’s glowing skyline.
Each cabin is enclosed and air-conditioned, so it’s comfortable year-round. The pace is slow and smooth, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the view without feeling rushed. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a quiet, reflective end to a full day.
The Ferris wheel runs until 10 pm, and tickets cost about $5.50 USD (800 JPY) per person. It’s a small splurge for a big view—and a sweet way to say goodbye to Kobe!
Where to Stay in Kobe
Now that you have a full itinerary planned out, you need somewhere perfect to stay! Kobe is small enough that you can get around easily, no matter where you stay. If these hotels are still avaliable when you’re ready to book, they will be your best options.
Luxury – $$$
Hotel La Suite Kobe Harborland is the ultimate splurge for travelers craving something extra special. Every room here is seriously spacious, with a private terrace and huge jacuzzi tub—many with dreamy views over the harbor.
They offer two upscale restaurants (French and Japanese), a café, and a rooftop terrace that’s perfect for sunset drinks. There’s also a women-only spa for when you’re ready to really unwind, plus a cozy lounge bar and top-tier service that makes the whole stay feel extra polished.
Prices range from around $250 to $600 USD per night and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Dormy Inn Kobe Motomachi Natural Hot Springs should be your go-to if you want an unbeatable combo of comfort and convenience right in the heart of Motomachi.
Rooms are clean and straightforward with everything you need: comfy beds, soft robes, free Wi‑Fi, a desk, fridge, and private bathroom. But the real highlight is the natural hot spring bath on the top floor—heated to perfection, gender-separated, and a total treat after a day spent exploring the city! They even provide complimentary ramen and ice cream in the evenings, the perfect bedtime treat.
Rates range from $90 to $270 USD depending on room category and season. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Just a 3-minute stroll from JR Motomachi Station and even closer to the subway, Kobe Motomachi Tokyu REI Hotel nails it when it comes to location.
Inside, rooms are simple and clean with soft, neutral tones—nothing flashy, but super functional. You’ll have a flat-screen TV, fridge, electric kettle, and fast Wi-Fi to keep things convenient. Downstairs, there’s free tea and coffee after check-in (a nice touch!), and a coin laundry if you’re traveling light. There’s even a cozy lounge that doubles as the breakfast area, where a Western-style buffet is available for a small extra fee.
Rates typically between $70 and $140 USD and can be reserved on Booking.com.
Related Read: Looking for more options? See our full guide on Where to Stay in Kobe here for the top areas and hotels!
Renting a Car in Japan
Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Japan
- Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
- Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
- Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
- Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
- A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
- Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope that you found this one or two day Kobe itinerary helpful! Regardless of how much time you can spend in Kobe, you’ll get a taste of what makes this city so special (and it’s not just the beef). This is the same itinerary we followed when we were visiting, and we loved our time in Kobe!
If you need help planning the rest of your trip, see all of our Japan blogs here! We have guides on the top things to do, city itineraries, and where to stay for all over the country. Here are a few related blogs that might be of use – cheers!
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