Port City Kobe: Recommended Spots

Kobe is a city where international charm and the atmosphere of a port town intersect. From historic shrines and towers with ocean views to a bustling Chinatown filled with culinary delights, exploring the city reveals a variety of attractions. 📍Kobe Port Tower Address: 5-5 Hatoba-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe City 🕰️ Hours: 9:00 AM–9:00 PM (Last entry at 8:30 PM) 💰 Admission: Observation deck entry 700–800 yen 🚃 Access: About a 15-minute walk from JR/Hanshin Motomachi Station. By bus, get off at "Port Tower-mae" stop. The renovated observation deck offers panoramic views of Kobe Port and the cityscape. The evening and night views are particularly stunning, providing a sense of openness unique to a port town. 📍Nankinmachi (Chinatown) Address: Motomachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe City 🚃 Access: About a 5-minute walk from the East Exit of JR/Hanshin Motomachi Station. Just pass through the arcade. Perfect for strolling while enjoying dim sum and Chinese sweets. The vibrant gates are also great spots for commemorative photos. 📍Ikuta Shrine Address: 1-2-1 Shimoyamatedori, Chuo-ku, Kobe City 🕰️ Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM 💰 Admission: Free 🚃 Access: About a 5-minute walk from Sannomiya Station on various lines. Located just north of Center Street. A historic shrine in the heart of Sannomiya. The contrast between the vermilion main hall and lush greenery is stunning. Famous for matchmaking, so don’t forget to try the omikuji fortune slips! 🎋 📍Minatoyama Onsen Address: 26-1 Minatoyama-cho, Hyogo-ku, Kobe City 🕰️ Hours: 5:00 AM–11:30 PM (Last entry at 11:00 PM), closed Wednesdays 💰 Admission: Adults 800 yen (Morning discount 600 yen) 🚃 Access: About a 15-minute walk from Minatoyama Koen Station on the Kobe Municipal Subway. It’s uphill. Alternatively, take the Kobe City Bus bound for "Ishii-cho" from Sannomiya → Get off at "Ishii-cho" (about 30 minutes). ❗️ Recommended to visit by rental bicycle. Located on a hill slightly away from Kobe’s city center, this tranquil hot spring facility is frequented by locals, offering an authentic atmosphere. Cycling uphill rewards you with views overlooking Kobe and a relaxing soak in the hot springs. Kobe is easy to explore on foot, with its compact layout where urban areas, the sea, and mountains are closely connected. Enjoy the views from the hills or the refreshing sea breeze during your stroll—unique experiences that Kobe has to offer.