kobe tours from osaka

The Perfect Kobe Day Trip (One Day Itinerary)

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Planning a Kobe day trip from Osaka or Kyoto? We’ve put together this one day itinerary to help you make the most of it.

While it’s known best for its expensive but delicious beef, Kobe has way more to offer. The city also makes for a great day trip, especially since it’s only 30–45 minutes by train from Osaka.

Kobe has a fascinating history. It played an important part when Japan opened its borders for the first time in 200+ years back in 1868. Kobe was the main harbour for international trade, and glimpses of that history are still seen in the city today. As the sixth biggest city in Japan and the capital of the Hyogo Prefecture, Kobe is definitely a place to consider visiting.

There are quite a lot of things to do in Kobe, so this day trip itinerary is just a suggestion (this is what we did on our trip to Kobe). Feel free to take from it with works for you or make any changes necessary.

If you’re planning to take a day trip to Kobe yourself, I’ve put together this itinerary to help you make the most of it. Everything you need to know can be found below!

10. Make your Way Back to Osaka

Kobe day trip itinerary.

Here’s how to make the most of your Osaka to Kobe day trip:

1. Take the Train from Osaka to Kobe

To start your day trip to Kobe, get on the train from Osaka (or Kyoto, depending on where you’re staying!). The journey itself shouldn’t take longer than 30–45 minutes.

Try to leave early though. Especially if you only have one day in Kobe, you want to make sure you make the most of it.

2. Explore Kitano

1868 is a year that will be mentioned a few times throughout this itinerary. It’s a big one for Kobe (and Japan), as it was the year the city opened up to foreign trade after the country’s borders were closed for over 200 years.

Because of this, Kobe became the home of many foreign merchants and diplomats. The area they settled in was called Kitano-cho . The houses they built and lived in were inspired by their homelands – resulting in the Western-style mansions that still stand here today.

Walking through the area gives you a good idea of what life used to be like in this part of the city. Many of the houses can be entered for a small fee. Some of them even have a museum inside. But even if you’re not planning to go inside, it’s nice to have a little wander around – it’s on the way to the next point on this Kobe itinerary anyways!

There is also a special Starbucks in this part of Kobe. It’s located in one of the colonial-styled buildings and is decorated beautifully inside. If you’ve not had your caffeine fix before, this is the time to grab a coffee.

A full list of all the former foreign residences can be found on their official website .

3. Take the Kobe Ropeway

To get to the next stop on our list (the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens), you have a choice of hiking up the hill or taking the iconic ropeway. Spoiler alert: I’d recommend getting the ropeway!

You can pay for a single ticket to get you up the hill and walk down. This is a more cost-efficient way than getting a return ticket, especially since the walk down is quite easy and filled with beautiful plants to look at. If you’re not sure, you can always buy a return ticket (which also gives you the option to walk down to the mid-way station and use the ropeway for the remaining part).

From the ropeway, you get to enjoy some of the best views in Kobe. The journey takes around 10 minutes and you can see as far as Osaka on a clear day!

4. Wander through Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens

Once you reach the end of the ropeway, you will have arrived at the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens . 

The ropeway ticket also includes entry to the gardens, so it’s definitely worth getting. As mentioned before, you can choose to get a return ticket, walk through the gardens to the mid-station and take the ropeway back. Or, you can choose to walk all the way down.

The gardens are vast! Divided into 12 areas, each part of the herb garden has a different theme with different plants. In total, there are more than 75,000 plants – and there’s something to enjoy during every season.

You can also find a herbal foot bath, a couple of museums (one about fragrances and one about spices) and a restaurant with a viewing deck. You can easily spend a couple of hours here, and since the walk down the hill is filled with beautiful plants and gardens, it’s a real treat – especially on a sunny day!

5. Visit Ikuta Shrine

Once you’re back down, head over to Ikuta Shrine. Kobe isn’t a large city, especially the area that we’re covering in this day trip guide, so you don’t have to use public transport. 

Most of the sights are only 10–15 minutes from each other on foot, and wandering through Japanese cities is always a treat. You’ll never know what you’ll find in the smaller alleyways. Make sure you’ve got Google Maps installed on your phone (the only essential travel app in Japan !), and you’ll easily be able to find the best routes.

Anyways, back to Ikuta Shrine. This beautiful shrine is one of the oldest in Kobe (and possibly one of the oldest in the whole of Japan), dating back to 201.

The main shrine is quite impressive. A large torii gate welcomes you and admission is free. Many people come here to pray for romance and safe childbirth .

Behind the main shrine, you can find a small garden called the Ikuta Forest. It even has a row of torii gates (almost like a smaller version of Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Taisha ).

6. Kobe Chinatown Nankinmachi 

From Ikuta Shrine, Kobe’s Chinatown is only a 15-minute walk away. This is the next stop on our Kobe itinerary.

Nankinmachi is one of Japan’s three Chinatowns (the other ones can be found in ​​Yokohama and Nagasaki ). It’s not very large, but it has a lovely atmosphere and is a great place to grab some street food.

Since Kobe is a harbour city, many foreigners settled here when Japan opened its borders to foreign traders in 1868, including the Chinese. This is the area where they settled. During the Second World War, a large part of the area was burned down and it wasn’t rebuilt properly until the 1970s.

However, nowadays, it’s a lively area of Kobe filled with street food vendors, restaurants and shops.

Kobe is also home to the oldest hot spring town in Japan, Arima Onsen . If you’re planning to stay overnight, check out the ultimate ryokan experience at Arimasansoh Goshobessho .

7. Explore Kobe port

The area near Kobe Port (or Kobe Bay) is another great place to explore. And there are quite a few sights to see in this area!

For starters, the Kobe Earthquake memorial can be found here. In 1995, a terrible earthquake took the lives of 6,400 people in Kobe. 

A little bit further, you can see the iconic Kobe Tower. The tower stands 108 meters tall and is shaped like an hourglass (or a traditional Japanese drum). It’s possible to visit the observation deck in the tower for a 360-degree view of the city.

Near the seafront, there’s also a Starbucks, a park and the Be Kobe sign for pictures. 

8. Visit Kobe Harborland

A little further (between the JR Kobe Station and Kobe Port) lies Kobe Harborland . While it almost sounds like a theme park, it’s more like a shopping and entertainment area in the city. 

There is a big shopping mall (Umie), lots of restaurants, and even a Ferris wheel (that lights up at night!).

9. Eat Kobe beef

And, of course, we can’t leave Kobe without trying its famous beef. If you’re not sure what Kobe beef is exactly, here’s a quick recap. Kobe beef is a type of Japanese Wagyu beef, known to be the most delicious (and expensive) beef in the world.

This incredibly tender meat comes from special Tajima cattle raised in the Hyogo prefecture (where Kobe is located). Every year, only around 3,000 cows are selected as good enough to be classed as official Kobe beef. With such limited supply, you can already guess that this isn’t a cheap takeaway meal…

But what better place to try Kobe beef than in Kobe itself?

After having walked around the city all day, you will probably already have seen some signs from restaurants advertising Kobe beef. However, if you want to try the real deal, you’ll have to be careful. Always do your research ! Some restaurants try to be clever and sell regular beef as “Kobe beef” as it’s sold in Kobe – that’s not the same as actual Kobe beef.

To make sure you eat (and pay for) real Kobe beef, make sure the restaurant has a plaque and certificate to show you. This will prove the steak you’re eating is officially classed as Kobe beef. It sounds a bit over the top, but if you’re going to spend £100 on a steak, you want it to be worth it, right?

We ended up having our Kobe steak at Mouriya Sannomiyaten . And I have to agree, it was absolutely delicious. The whole experience was really great too – we had a private chef cooking the meat in front of us, explaining how to eat it properly. Since our visit to Kobe, I’ve had other Wagyu beef, but Kobe is definitely some of the best.

If you’re on a budget but still want to try Kobe beef, it can be worth looking for lunch deals instead. Some restaurants offer cheaper lunch options including real Kobe beef – you can then always go to Chinatown in the evening for dinner instead!

Luckily, you don’t have to rush to get a train back to Osaka since it’s only 30–45 minutes. Trains leave often, so you’ll have some time to wander around and enjoy Kobe at night. 

There are some great bars and arcades to check out, or you can head back earlier (there are so many great things to do in Osaka at night too!).

Is Kobe Worth a day trip?

It depends. While Kobe is a lovely city with a ton of great things to do, there are some better places to visit nearby. If you’re visiting Japan for the first time and you don’t have a lot of time, it may be better to skip Kobe and spend more time in Osaka, Kyoto or take a day trip to Nara . That is, unless you have a very specific reason for wanting to add Kobe to your Japan itinerary .

If you do have enough time, Kobe definitely makes for a great day trip from Osaka . There’s more than enough to do to fill a day (even a weekend!), plus eating real Kobe beef in the city makes for a great experience.

Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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Perfect Kobe Day Trip: Full Itinerary + Hour Breakdown

During my last visit to Japan, I took a day trip to Kobe from Osaka. I kept reading mixed reviews on if Kobe is worth visiting.

Since I was staying in Osaka for a bit and had time to do a Kobe day trip, I decided to go for it!

You can also do a Combo Day Tour: Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto & Nara .

Here’s everything I did on a day trip to Kobe from Osaka, including things I wish I did, plus my thoughts on if it was worth it.

📝 Mix and match: 33 Fun Things to Do in Kobe

Heading to Nara too? Check out my Nara day trip itinerary next.

Kobe Checklist: have you booked these yet? ▢ Prebook your bullet train ticket to Kobe ▢ Buy a Kobe Passport for access to 40+ attractions ▢ Book discounted hotels in Kobe (what I use) ▢ Hire a private driver in Kobe for a day ▢ Book the most popular day tours in Kobe

Table of Contents

Why Visit Kobe?

• Scenic Beauty : Kobe is a port town so you’ll get nice harbor views during the day and night. Plus, Kobe has Rokko Mountain for scenic hiking trails and panoramic views.
• Cultural Attractions : Visit the Kitano district with European-style houses, a vibrant Chinatown and Ikuta Shrine, one of the oldest shrines in Japan.
• Hot Springs (Onsen) : Arima Onsen , one of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot spring resorts, is a popular stop in Kobe.
• Kobe is known for its kobe beef, but as a vegan, I can’t comment! (Peek my vegan guide to Japan for fellow veg-heads.)

My First Impressions of Kobe

• Kobe is Japan’s 7th largest city . It felt like a working city but without the chaos of Tokyo.
• It is very clean and walkable with lots of modern buildings and commercial areas.
• There weren’t a lot of foreign tourists, but it was a great “tourist city” with lots of places to see.

How to Get to Kobe

Kobe is 30 km (19 miles) from Osaka, and about 75 km (47 miles) from Kyoto.

There are several ways to get to Kobe. Assuming you’re taking a day trip to Kobe from Osaka, here are the easiest ways:

• Time : 21 minutes
• Cost : 420 yen ($2.60 USD)
• Time : 31 minutes
• Cost : 330 yen ($2 USD)
• Time : 12 minutes
• Cost : 1,510 yen ($9.50 USD) for unreserved seat

Tip : You can easily prebook the Shinkansen online on Klook .

How Many Hours Do You Need in Kobe?

Admittedly, I started my day late, but a minimum of four hours is sufficient for a leisurely time in Kobe.

If you stay longer, you’ll be able to visit hidden gems as well as see Kobe’s night views, which are pretty great!

I ended up staying until around 8:30pm, and easily took the train back to Osaka in no time.

To save time join a Kobe tour:

• Kobe｜Mt. Rokko Night View Day Tour｜Departure from Osaka
• Private Kobe Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems – 100% Personalized

Getting Around Kobe

• Train : Kobe has JR lines and subways connecting major attractions and neighborhoods, though you’ll still likely be walking 10-15 minutes to get to some sites.
• Bus : To limit walking distances, take the Kobe city bus, which accepts the Suica card.
• Walking : Many of Kobe’s key attractions are within walking distance of each other, in the range of 10-20 minutes. I ended up walking to most places, including a trek to a waterfall!

🎟️ Buy a Kobe Passport for access to 40+ attractions

Top 5 Things to Do in Kobe

Here are the five most popular things to do in Kobe for a Kobe day trip that separates it from other cities in Japan.

1. Meriken Park : This waterfront park has the iconic Kobe Port Tower, picturesque views of the harbor, and the BE KOBE sign. There’s usually a short line to take a photo.

2. Kobe Harborland : A shopping and entertainment area and walking street along the harbor, with restaurants and shops like Donguri Garden Mosaic , a Studio Ghibli merchandise shop.

3. Kitano District : This area is known for its well-preserved European-style and English-themed houses.

4. Ikuta Shrine : While this shrine is not large, it’s popular for being one of the oldest shrines in Japan, dating back to the 3rd century, and is famous shrine to pray for love and healthy relationships.

5. Hike Mount Rokko : While getting here takes some effort, the hike or a cable car up Mount Rokko provides stunning views of Kobe and the surrounding areas. Book a tour instead .

• Visit the Rokko Garden Terrace and Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden .

Top Kobe tours to join: 🔹 Kobe Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide 🔹 Sake Tasting at Local Breweries in Kobe 🔹 Combo Day Tour: Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto & Nara

Full Kobe Day Trip Itinerary

Here’s a full itinerary on how to spend a Kobe day trip, along with alternatives. The main factor will be your preference on night and day views, and what time you have to leave Kobe.

Morning (2 hours)

*If you prefer night views, go again or save both locations for evening time.

1. Kobe Harborland:

• Walk along the pier.
• Stop by Donguri Garden Mosaic, a Studio Ghibli merchandise shop.
• Ride the Mosaic Big Ferris Wheel (open 10am-10pm, $5 USD).

2. Meriken Park

• Take a photo with the KOBE sign.
• Explore the street art and several art installations.
• Sit by the harbor.

Early Noon (2hours)

Grab a bite or shop at any or both of these areas, a 10-minutes walk from each other:

3. Chinatown : Lots of eateries, including some vegan-friendly street food.

4. Sannomiya Center Gai Shopping Street : a long covered walking street with shops and restaurants. Another similar location is the Motomachi Walking Street.

Noon (2-3 hours)

5. Mount Rokko:

• To get to the top of Mount Rokko, you can either hike or take a combo of bus from Rokko Station to Rokko Cablecar, then a cable car up to Mount Rokko.
• You can save Mount Rokko for sunset or evening views, deemed “10-Million Dollar Views.”

🎫 Book a day tour to Kobe + Mount Rokko

Afternoon (1-2 hours)

6. Kitano District:

• Walk along the street for views of beautiful western-style homes and museums.
• Visit The English House, a Sherlock Holmes-themed house and pub.

7. Ikuta Jinja:

• A 10-minute walk away from the Kitano area.
• Explore the tori gates leading to the shrine as well as inside the grounds.
• Visit or pray at the main hall and draw an omikuji (fortune slip).

Evening (1-2 hours)

If you have more time before you head back from your Kobe day trip , stop by Meriken Park and Harborland again for great night views of the harbor, BE KOBE sign, and Kobe Port Tower.

You can also take the Mosaic Big Ferris Wheel, which closes at 10pm.

Plus, there’s lots of cement seating along the water to sit and relax on.

Downtown Kobe and Chinatown are also nice areas to walk through in the evening. As people get off work, it becomes busy and vibrant.

Alternatives:

Here are additional things to do in a Kobe day trip if you have more time or prefer to switch things up.

1. Nunobiki Falls : While this was a mild walk and hike to get to, the trail and views, along with viewing deck was very peaceful.

2. Arima Onsen : If you have time, this is a popular activity in Kobe. Enjoy the onsen springs, stay at an onsen resort, and explore the charming town streets.

3. Nunobiki Herb Garden Trail: Enjoy a scenic hike or ropeway ride through the lush greenery, leading to the Nunobiki Herb Garden with a variety of plants and flowers.

🎫 Prebook the Nunobiki Herb Gardens Ticket & Ropeway Ticket

4. Cruise Kobe Bay : Take an evening cruise around Kobe Bay ($17 USD) to enjoy the city lights from the water.

Is Kobe Worth Visiting?

Kobe is an easy day trip from Osaka, with many things to do as tourist that varies from scenic water views to cultural and nature sites. It’s also very easy to walk around, though some sites takes some transportation efforts.

If I had to do it again, I would join Mt. Rokko Night View Day Tour to bypass DIY-ing the transportation to Mt. Rokko.

For an overnight stay, I’d relax at one of the many onsen and buy a Kobe passport .

I personally enjoyed it and loved exploring Kobe, but I also had many extra days to take a Kobe day trip. If your time in Japan is limited, and are debating between Kobe and Nara, I would go with the Nara day trip, since seeing wild deer is a rarity! Still, both cities are charmingly different and worth visiting.

Enjoy your Kobe day trip!

Top Kobe tours to book: 🔹 Kobe Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide 🔹 Sake Tasting at Local Breweries in Kobe 🔹 Combo Day Tour: Kobe, Osaka, Kyoto & Nara

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Essential Vegan in Japan Travel Guide (2024)

Roseanne Ducut is a solo female traveler and Filipina from the Bay Area, California. She writes practical and culture-rich travel guides and lives a not-so-secret double life as a fangirl. A veghead for over 15 years, Roseanne also writes vegan guides to help others plan their trips.

• Travel tips

Osaka to Kobe Day Trip: Best Things to Do in Kobe in One Day

As the 6th largest city in Japan, Kobe is located on the south side of the main island of Honshu . The capital city of Hyogo Prefecture is known for its busy port, culturally influenced districts, and the production of Kobe beef.

Initially, I wanted to take a Kobe day trip from Osaka because I wanted to eat Kobe Beef. Yes, a lot of my trips are very much motivated by food. But I was pleasantly surprised by all the things to do in Kobe, including the diverse neighbourhoods and the city’s panoramic views.

If you spending a few days in Osaka and want to take a day trip somewhere, follow my Osaka to Kobe day trip itinerary and see all the best tourist attractions in less than 24 hours!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the disclosure for more info.

Osaka to Kobe Day Trip: what you need to know

Before starting your day trip to Kobe, take a look at my post on everything you need to know before going to Japan . I included a lot of travel information, including how to get around Japan and other travel tips.

Here are a few additional travel tips that you may find useful for your Kobe itinerary:

• ICOCA is the prepaid IC card for Hyogo Prefecture. It is a rechargeable smartcard where you can take public transportation, including buses and trains (Japan Railway, Hanshin Railway and Hankyu Railway). It is useful, especially if you are doing a Kobe day trip from Osaka.
• The best way to experience this Kobe itinerary is on foot . All the attractions are within walking distance.
• Kobe is a safe city for solo female travellers . Even if you are taking the train at night from Kobe to Osaka, it is super safe.
• Kobe Bon Odori Festival (mid-August) – attend a summer festival with traditional dance and folk songs in Meriken Park. 
• Minato Kobe Marine Fireworks Festival (late October) – enjoy the fireworks in Meriken Park.
• Nankinmachi Lantern Festival (December to January) – see over 400 Chinese lanterns in Kobe’s Nankinmachi Square

How to travel to Kobe from Osaka

First of all, Kobe is only 30km west of Osaka in the Kansai Region and there are several railways that can take you from Osaka to Kobe.

My ideal Osaka to Kobe day trip starts at Sannomiya Station in Kobe, where the station is closer to the city centre. Take Japan Railway, Hanshin Railway or Hankyu Railway from Osaka. The duration and cost of each railway are similar.

Then at the end of the day, return to Osaka from Kobe Station on Japan Railway . Check the exact train schedules and fares on Hyperdia for all three railways .

Japan Railway

• Osaka Station to JR Sannomiya Station (20 minutes, ¥410 (covered by JR Pass)

Hanshin Railway

• Osaka-Umeda Station (Hanshin) Station to Kobe-Sannomiya (Hanshin) Station (31 minutes ¥320)

Hankyu Railway

• Osaka-Umeda (Hankyu) Station to Kobe-Sannomiya (Hankyu) Station (27 minutes, ¥320)

How to travel back to Osaka from Kobe

As mentioned above, the perfect day trip starts with arriving at Sannomiya Station in Kobe and leaving Kobe from Kobe Station. And only Japan Railway can take you back to Osaka from Kobe Station.

• Kobe Station to Osaka Station (25 minutes,¥410 (covered by JR Pass)

Kobe Itinerary: What to do in Kobe in 1 day

As I mentioned, my ideal day trip to Kobe from Osaka starts with taking one of the three railways from Osaka to Sannomiya Station. The day trip ends with a trip back to Osaka from Kobe Station .

I like this route because you don’t have to backtrack to Sannomiya Station to catch your train back to Osaka. I’m all about creating an efficient and time-saving itinerary!

So here is how you use the Kobe interactive map. All the top things to do in Kobe are pinned with coloured pins.  Red numbered pins are all the must-see attractions   on Day 1 ,  blue pins are other things to do in   Kobe  if you want to change the itinerary and  green pins are day trip ideas from Kobe .

1. Visit Ikuta Jinja

The Kobe day tour starts with a visit to Ikuta Jinja , one of the most visited shrine in Kobe. Local visit the Shinto Shrine and pray for good health and happiness as Ikuta Shrine is the symbol of hope.

The vermilion-lacquered giant torii gates at the entrance welcome you to the Zen temple. Then see Honden (the main hall), one of the oldest Shinto Shrines in Japan as the shrine dates back to 3rd century AD.

While you are there, also check out other buildings on the premise, ponds and various torii gates as well. And if you are visiting Kobe in the fall, you can see a traditional Japanese play during Ikuta’s Autumn Festival .

2, 3, 4 & 5. Wander around Kitano-cho

When the city of Kobe opened to foreign trade in 1868, many foreign merchants and diplomats moved to Kobe and settled in Kitano-cho . Today, it is a historical district with many of these foreign residences , also known as ijinkan .

And many of these foreign residences function like a museum where you can see antiques, artworks and historical items of that particular culture. Some highlights include the Weathercock House and Uroko House . Most houses charge between ¥500 to ¥750. Or you can buy a combination ticket for ￥1,400 or ￥2,800.

Even if you don’t visit the foreign residences, walk around Kitano Ijinkan-Gai (Main Street) and enjoy a stroll around the quaint area. And enjoy a view of Kobe from Kitano Tenman Shrine .

6 & 7. Try Kobe Beef

A day trip to Kobe wouldn’t be the same if you didn’t try Kobe beef ! And Kobe beef is pretty unique. It is from Tajima black cattle raised only in Hyogo Prefecture and only about 3,000 cattle can be qualified as Kobe beef each year.

It is a type of Wagyu beef where it can be prepared in one of several ways including sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, sushi, or it can be eaten as a steak fillet or beef cutlet .

Steakland is a popular and touristy teppanyaki restaurant where the chef cooks the Kobe beef on a hot flat skillet in front of you. A set meal includes salad, grilled vegetables, rice, miso soup, pickled vegetables and Kobe beef.

Or try Wagyu Hitsumabushi (thin slices of beef in lacquer rice bowl) or Wagyu Sukiyaki at Aka Noren , a popular restaurant that specializes in Wagyu beef. Or try steak fillet or Wagyu beef cutlet from their a la carte menu.

Budget tip : It is cheaper to eat Kobe beef at lunch rather than at dinner. Many Wagyu beef set lunches across the city are very affordable.

8 & 9. Walk across Sannomiya Center Gai Shopping Street and Motomachidori

After eating a delicious Kobe beef lunch, continue your Kobe day trip itinerary by walking through two of Kobe’s most well-known pedestrian shopping streets.

Sannomiya Center Gai Shopping Street is a large covered shopping street starting from Sannomiya Station and ends at Tor Road. The busy shopping street has many retail stores for trendy fashion, hip cafes and restaurants.

Not far away is Motomachidori , a historical shopping street where some of the retailers have more than 100 years of history. It starts near JR Motomachi Station and stretches 1.2km to the west. But you don’t have to walk the entire length – most active retailers are on the east end. Plus, you’ll want to jump over to the next attraction on the Kobe itinerary.

10. Eat street food in Nankinmachi

When the city of Kobe opened for foreign trade in 1868, many Chinese immigrants moved to Kobe and settled near Kobe Port. The area grew but was destroyed during World War II. But Nankinmachi , Kobe’s Chinatown District , was rebuilt and became one of the most active Chinese communities in the Kansai region.

Kobe’s Chinatown consists of two main streets intersecting at a small plaza in the centre. Many street food vendors and Chinese restaurants lining the main road. Also, there are three archways at Chinatown’s south, west and east end and a pair of lions guard the north entrance .

This is an excellent place to eat in Kobe . Try Chuka Ryori (Japanese adapted Chinese food) if you are not too full from your Kobe beef lunch. Or you can get some steamed pork buns from Rōshōki to-go – they are the most popular food vendor in Nankinmachi.

11, 12, 13 & 14. Wander around Meriken Park and Kobe Harbour

Kobe Harbour is particularly beautiful at night when all the lights are on and shining on all the major buildings. Many people living in Osaka (especially couples) like to visit Kobe on a day trip. And they especially like to visit Kobe Harbour at night as it is one of the most romantic places in Kobe.

At the end of your Kobe day trip, visit some of the highlights in Meriken Park and Kobe Harbour before catching the Japan Railway train from Kobe Station back to Osaka. The last train going back to Osaka is at 12:30 am.

• Be Kobe – take a photo next to the iconic sign commemorating the 150th anniversary of Kobe Port.
• Kobe Port Tower – the 108m (354 ft) tall tower resembles the hourglass shape of a tsuzumi , a traditional Japanese drum. There are several observatory levels and a rotating cafe. However, the Kobe Port Tower is is temporarily closed for renovation.
• Mosaic – see the colourful Mosaic Big Ferris Wheel, shop for souvenirs and may be have dinner before returning to Osaka.
• Umie North Mall – excellent shopping mall that you have to walk through on the way to Kobe Station.

Other suggested attractions for your Kobe itinerary

There are so many things to do in Kobe that it was difficult to choose what to do in one day. But if you are staying longer in Kobe or want to change up the itinerary, here are some other suggestions:

• Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens – see over 75,000 plants and over 200 types of herbs and flowers blooming all year round. It is Japan’s largest herb garden!
• Kobe City Museum – it has the world’s largest collection of Namban Art, or “Southern Barbarian Art” (a Japanese art style developed in the 1500s when trading with the West began).
• Kobe Maritime Museum – learn about Japanese trading ships and the history of Kobe port. The exterior of the museum is a large white lattice structure that resembles a sailboat.
• Takenaka Carpenter Tools Museum – the only museum in Japan dedicated to carpentry tools.
• Atoa – a new creative space that features aquariums and interactive art.

If you are spending more than one day in Kobe

If you decide to stay in Kobe longer than a day, there are other things to do outside of the city centre. Here are some suggestions:

1. Have a hot spring experience at Arima Onsen

Whether you visit Arima Onsen as a day trip or stay overnight in the hot spring town, you will thoroughly enjoy the scenery of Japan’s oldest hot spring town. Try the famous “ Kinsen ” golden hot spring (spring water turns into a reddish-brown colour once the water touches the air). Iron and sodium chloride is excellent for your skin and circulation.

How to get to Arima: take the subway from Sannomiya Station to Tanigami Station, change train to Arimaguchi Station, then change one more train to Arimaonsen Station. The entire journey takes 36 minutes and costs ¥690.

2. Hike Mount Rokko

Hike up Mount Rokko and see a panoramic view of the city of Kobe. On a clear day, you can see as far as Osaka ! While you are there, see other attractions like Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden , Rokko International Musical Box Museum and Rokko Garden Terrace . Also consider going at night because the night view is fantastic!

How to get to Mount Rokko : take Hankyu Railway from Sannomiya Station to Rokko Station (15 minutes, ¥200). Then take Kobe City Bus #16 to Rokko Cablecar (14 minutes, ¥210). Then take Rokko Cablecar up Mount Rokko (10 minutes, ¥600 one way or ¥1,100 round trip).

3. Visit Himeji Castle in Himeji

Himeji Castle , also known as the White Heron Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Japan’s top castles. While you are visiting Himeji , make sure to visit Koko-en Garden and  Engyoji Temple  in  Mount Shosha .

How to get to Himeji: take Japan Railway from Sannomiya Station to Himeji Station. The journey takes only 40 minutes and costs ¥990.

Where to stay in Kobe Japan as a solo traveller

It is possible to see all the best Kobe attractions in one day, but I highly recommend staying in Kobe for a few nights. Kobe accommodations are cheaper than Osaka and it is an excellent hub for seeing other places in the area.

When I stayed overnight in Kobe, I stayed at these hotels which are centrally located and great for solo travellers.

• Kobe Plaza Hotel West ($) – the compact room is big enough for one person and is next to Chinatown. Check Agoda for prices & reviews.
• Candeo Hotels Kobe Tor Road ($$) – the 4-star hotel has modern guest rooms and is within walking distance of most attractions. Plus, it has a sky spa on the top floor. Check Agoda for prices & reviews.

Are you going to take a day trip to Kobe from Osaka?

I hope you enjoyed reading my Kobe 1 day itinerary. The city of Kobe is more than just Kobe beef (although I would go to Kobe and eat Kobe beef!). I thoroughly enjoyed Kobe and hope you will include it in your Japan itinerary.

Let me know in the comments if you followed this Kobe day trip itinerary or have any suggestions to make it better.

Thank you for reading my Kobe itinerary

You might also like these other posts on solo travel in Japan:

Introduction to Japan

• Solo Travel to Japan: 17 best cities for solo travellers
• Things I wish I knew before going to Japan
• 11 Off-the-beaten-path places in Japan
• Japanese Food Culture: 11 must-try food
• One month in Japan: from Tokyo to Hiroshima

Kansai region

• Kyoto 2-day itinerary
• Where to stay in Kyoto: Best Areas & Hotel Reviews
• Kyoto Food Guide: What and Where to Eat
• Kurama to Kibune hiking itinerary
• Uji day trip from Kyoto
• Nara day trip from Kyoto or Osaka
• Nara famous food: Where and What to Eat
• Hike Yamanobe-no-Michi Trail in Nara Prefecture
• 2-day Osaka itinerary
• Where to stay in Osaka for first time traveller
• Where and What to Eat in Osaka, Japan
• Minoh Waterfalls Trail: easy day hike from Osaka
• Best food in Kobe: Where and What to Eat
• Arima Onsen day trip itinerary
• Himeji day trip from Osaka

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Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

26 Best food in Okinawa: Where and What to eat in Okinawa

Nagoya Day Trip: What to Do in Nagoya in One Day

Uji Day Trip from Kyoto: Best Things to Do in Uji in One Day

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ITINERARIES Kobe in 1 Day Discover architecture, history, and unforgettable waterfront views

One of japan's most culturally eclectic cities, kobe is easily accessible from osaka and kyoto by train, how to get there, from tokyo: 2 hours 45 minutes.

Take the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Kobe Station.

From Osaka: 25 minutes

Take the JR Kobe Line from Osaka Station to Sannomiya Station.

Photo: ©Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway

Begin your adventure through Kobe by taking the Kobe Nunobiki ropeway up to the Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens, home to a variety of herbs and flowers spanning 200 species. Take in sweeping views of the city from the top of the mountain.

A short walk from the base of the ropeway on foot is Kitano, a historic district once home to many of the city’s foreign merchants.

Foreign trade boomed around the 19th century, and several of the homes in the Kitano area remain relatively untouched. Many of these former mansions, known as Ijinkan, have been repurposed into museums and are today open to the public.

Photo: ©KOBE TOURISM BUREAU

Running down towards the port is Kobe Tor Road, one of the city's most culturally defining streets.

Just to the east of Tor Road are the towering torii gates of Ikuta-jinja Shrine. Founded in the year 201 A.D. this shrine has deep ties to Kobe. The surrounding area is the core of Kobe's modern downtown, and the shrine hosts many major festivals throughout the year.

Consider a visit to the Kobe Animal Kingdom, a flower and animal park situated on Port Island. Perfect for children but with plenty of attractions for adults too, the park features a hands-on petting zoo and a giant greenhouse, great for exploring when the weather is less than ideal.

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10 Best Places To See On An Osaka To Kobe Day Trip

• by Jonny Duncan
• August 26, 2023 August 26, 2023

Kobe is a vibrant city with a mix of modern attractions and historical sites to explore and it’s easy to do an Osaka to Kobe day trip as the cities are right next to each other.

If you’re in Kyoto it’s also easy to get to Kobe from there and this post would apply to that as well.

There are many more things to do in Kobe that aren’t listed here but that would be too much to do on an Osaka to Kobe day trip as you will only have one day in the city and you can’t cover them all.

Osaka To Kobe Day Trip

If you have just one day to spend on an Osaka to Kobe day trip then these are the must-see and must-do activities.

Getting From Osaka To Kobe

To travel from Osaka to Kobe, you have several transportation options available.

Train : The most popular and convenient way to travel between Osaka and Kobe is by train. You can take the Japan Rail (JR) Special Rapid Service from Osaka Station to Sannomiya Station in Kobe. This is a direct and frequent service that takes about 20-30 minutes. The JR trains are comfortable and reliable.

Hanshin Railway : Another train option is the Hanshin Railway. You can take the Hanshin Main Line from Osaka-Umeda Station to Kobe-Sannomiya Station. This is also a direct route and takes around 30-40 minutes.

Hankyu Railway : If you’re departing from Umeda in Osaka, you can take the Hankyu Railway from Umeda Station to Sannomiya Station in Kobe. This journey takes about 25-35 minutes.

Highway Bus : There are also highway buses available that connect Osaka and Kobe. Buses are generally slower than trains, but they can be a cost-effective option. The travel time can vary depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi : Taxis are available, but they are the most expensive option and not typically recommended for this relatively short journey.

Ferry : In addition to these options, you can also take a ferry across Osaka Bay, though this is less common and might not be the most efficient choice.

Keep in mind that travel times and options may vary based on the specific stations you depart from and arrive at, as well as the type of train or service you choose. It’s a good idea to check the current schedules and ticket prices ahead of time.

If you’re using a transportation app or website, it should provide you with the most up-to-date information for your travel dates on your Osaka to Kobe day trip.

Best Things To Do On an Osaka To Kobe Day Trip

The top 3 on this list are all located in the same area and they are one of the main regions in Kobe that are a must-visit.

Kobe Port Tower

Start your day by visiting the iconic Kobe Port Tower. This landmark offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding waterfront. It’s a great way to get a sense of the city’s layout.

The tower offers two observation decks, one at about 75 meters (246 feet) and the other at the top of the tower.

The area around Kobe Port Tower, especially Meriken Park, often hosts various events, festivals, and celebrations, making it a lively and dynamic place to visit.

Meriken Park

Along with the Kobe Port Tower is Meriken Park. This waterfront park features interesting sculptures, the Kobe Maritime Museum, and the Kawasaki Good Times World, which showcases the history of the Kawasaki brand.

The park’s history dates back to the late 19th century when Kobe opened up to international trade. The park’s development gained momentum in the 20th century as Kobe became a prominent port city.

Kobe Harborland

This shopping and entertainment district is located near the port area. It’s a great place to stroll around, shop, and enjoy the scenic waterfront. You’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

This whole area encompasses the Kobe Port Tower and Meriken Park and is the main place you should go on an Osaka to Kobe day trip.

Chinatown (Nankin-machi)

Kobe’s Chinatown is one of the three major Chinatowns in Japan. It’s a lively area with narrow streets, colorful decorations, and numerous shops and restaurants offering Chinese cuisine and cultural experiences.

There are numerous shops and stalls selling Chinese goods, snacks, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to find unique items and enjoy some delicious Chinese cuisine.

This historic district is known for its Western-style houses and architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many of these houses have been converted into museums, cafes, and boutiques. The area has a charming, nostalgic atmosphere.

Kitano-cho is located in the Chuo Ward of Kobe, not far from Sannomiya and the waterfront area. It’s situated on the northern slopes of the Rokko Mountain range.

Nunobiki Herb Garden and Ropeway

The Nunobiki Herb Garden is a botanical garden situated on the slopes of the Rokko Mountains. It’s a tranquil oasis featuring a wide range of herbs, flowers, and greenery.

Take the Nunobiki Ropeway to the Nunobiki Herb Garden, where you can explore the beautiful herb garden with stunning views of the city below. The garden is particularly lovely in spring and summer.

The garden boasts over 75,000 herb plants of around 200 different species, creating a colorful and fragrant environment.

Ikuta Shrine

This ancient Shinto shrine is one of Kobe’s oldest landmarks. It’s a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city and offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese spirituality and architecture.

Ikuta Shrine has a long history that dates back over a millennium. It is said to have been founded in the 3rd century, making it one of the oldest shrines in Japan. The shrine’s history is intertwined with the development of Kobe as a port city.

Ikuta Shrine is situated in the Chuo Ward of Kobe, near the Sannomiya area. It’s conveniently located and easily accessible from various parts of the city.

Sorakuen Garden

If you’re looking for a serene and peaceful spot, visit Sorakuen Garden. This traditional Japanese garden features walking paths, ponds, tea houses, and seasonal flora.

Sorakuen Garden is situated in the Nada Ward of Kobe, not far from the city center. Its central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.

Sorakuen Garden features a classic Japanese garden layout, with meticulously designed landscapes, ponds, stone pathways, and lush greenery. The garden is designed to harmonize with nature and evoke a sense of serenity.

Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park

Learn about the Great Hanshin Earthquake that struck Kobe in 1995 at this memorial park. It serves as a reminder of the city’s resilience and recovery.

This is also located in the Merikan Park area and commemorates the earthquake that struck the region on January 17, 1995. This memorial area includes remnants of buildings destroyed by the earthquake, as well as a clock that stopped at the time of the earthquake (5:46 AM).

Go Shopping In Kobe

Shopping in Kobe is one of the best things to do on an Osaka to Kobe day trip. Along with Osaka, it’s a great place to shop, but do it towards the end of the day so you don’t have to carry things around.

There are many streets and malls to go shopping with the main ones being:

Sannomiya Center Street: Located in the heart of Kobe, Sannomiya Center Street is a bustling shopping district lined with department stores, fashion boutiques, electronics shops, and a variety of restaurants. It’s a prime spot for both locals and tourists.

Motomachi Shopping Street: This historic shopping street is known for its mix of Western-style architecture and traditional Japanese storefronts. It features a variety of shops offering clothing, accessories, antiques, and specialty goods. Motomachi is also home to a number of high-end fashion boutiques.

Kobe Harborland: As mentioned earlier, Kobe Harborland is a modern waterfront district that offers a wide range of shopping options, including malls like Mosaic, Harborland Umie, and Canal Garden. You’ll find both international brands and local boutiques here, along with restaurants and entertainment.

Try Kobe Beef

Kobe is famous for its high-quality beef. If you’re a food enthusiast, consider trying Kobe beef at one of the city’s reputable restaurants. Savoring this delicacy is a memorable experience.

Naturally, however, if you don’t eat beef then give this option a big miss, as these Kobe beef places are serious for meat eaters. But if you love meat then try some Kobe beef on an Osaka to Kobe day trip is a must-do thing.

Kobe is one of those great modern cities in Japan and if you’re in Osaka or Kyoto you should definitely visit for a day if you have the time.

If you don’t want to do things all by yourself then taking a guided tour is one of the best things to do, you will see the main sites without the hassle of getting around. This tour is recommended for a full day:

For more things to do in the region take a look at the best day trips from Osaka .

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More currencies, from osaka: kobe full-day guided tour.

Join a guided tour of Kobe, exploring the colossal mosaic Ferris wheel, the historic Arima Onsen, stunning night views from Mount Rokko, and more.

Discover Kobe's iconic landmarks on a full-day tour with an expert guide, enjoying the convenience of round-trip transfers from Osaka.

Marvel Kobe Harbor's modern architecture, a key Japanese commercial port, then ascend the Sky on the Mosaic Ferris Wheel for a 360° view of the port.

Explore Kitano Ijinkan Street dotted with boutiques and cafes, then relax at the ancient Arima Onsen, one of Japan's three oldest hot spring towns.

Immerse in Rokko Mountain's panoramic sunset views of Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto, then visit the Musical Box Museum and Alpine Botanical Garden.

Fun fact: Kobe is renowned for its world-famous Kobe Beef, where cattle receive massages and even beer, enhancing the meat's tenderness and flavor.

Full-day Kobe tour

Expert guide (English, Japanese, and Chinese)

Round-trip transfers from Osaka

Air-conditioned vehicle

Entry to attractions

Food and drinks

Cancellation policy

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Your experience

Set out on an adventure to the enchanting city of Kobe in Japan. Nestled between mountains and the sea, this day trip from Osaka promises scenic drives, expert guides, and the ease of return transfers.

Harbor to heights

Begin at the bustling Kobe Harbor, a cultural melting pot since the Meiji era. Then, ascend the Mosaic Ferris Wheel in Linhai Paradise for a panoramic thrill that'll make you feel on top of the world. It's time to venture to Kitano Ijinkan-Gai, a treasure trove of Western-style buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods, featuring museums, boutiques, cafes, and flower stores. Take a bite at the historic Starbucks Kitano Ijinkan Store, the first Starbucks in Japan.

Serene spectacle

As the day unfolds, venture to the 1000-year-old Arima Onsen, a captivating ancient hot spring town adorned with shrines and temples exuding ancient charm and mystical smoke. Wrap up your day with an ascent to Mount Rokko, treating yourself to breathtaking panoramic views of Kobe, Osaka, and Kyoto. Explore the Rokko International Musical Box Museum, Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, and the Rotating Ten Countries Observatory before heading back to Osaka.

10:30am: Pick up from Nihonbashi Exit 2

12:00pm: Port of Kobe (Kobe Harbor and Mosaic Ferris Wheel)

2:30pm: Kitano Ijinkan-Gai

4:30pm: Arima Onsen

6:00pm: Mount Rokko

7:30pm: Start to return to Osaka

Know before you go

What to bring.

• It is recommended to bring sunscreen and wear comfortable clothing for the day tour.

Additional information

The itinerary schedule may be adjusted according to weather and road conditions.

The tour requires a minimum of 4 participants to operate, otherwise, it will be canceled in advance.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please arrive at the meeting point 10 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

Meeting Point

Meet your guide at 1-chōme-3-6 Nipponbashi .

Address: 1-chōme-3-6 Nipponbashi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 542-0073, Japan.

Landmark: Opposite 7-Eleven Osaka Nihonbashiekihigashi Convenience Store.

Guide Identifier: Your guide will be holding a yellow flag featuring the Gogoday logo.

Get Directions to the Meeting Point

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19 Best Things to Do in Kobe: Attractions, Fun Tours & More

One of western Japan’s most popular cities, Kobe is well known for its resiliency following 1995’s Great Hanshin Earthquake, its international flavor, and, of course, world-famous Kobe beef. Around 30 minutes west of Osaka and located on a scenic harbor, Kobe is a natural addition to any western Japan itinerary and a great weekend destination. Here are the 20 best things to do in Kobe , perfect for any first-time visitor.

What’s Kobe like? How do you get there?

Get to know kobe itself, find rest and relaxation in and around kobe.

• Explore around Kobe Port
• Embark on delightful day trips from Kobe
• Sample Kobe’s signature eats

Neighboring Osaka Prefecture to the west, Hyogo Prefecture similarly has a number of tourism-centric cities. It’s well known abroad, seeing a yearly rate of 1 million visitors from overseas. From the sea to the mountains , its vast area is home to many sightseeing locations. Kobe is one of Hyogo Prefecture 's most popular tourist destinations. Getting to Kobe is very straightforward. ・From JR Osaka Station , take the Tokaido-Sanyo Line to JR Sannomiya Station (the trip is covered under the Japan Rail Pass). Depending on the train, the trip can take around 21 minutes. ・From Kyoto, take a Shinkansen bullet train to Shin- Kobe Station (around 28 min.). From Shin- Kobe , take the Seishin-Yamate Line to Sannomiya Station (around 5 min.).

1. Stroll through historical Kitano-cho

At the foot of Mt. Rokko , you’ll find Kitano -cho (or Kitano Ijinkan), a historical district in Kobe that was home to foreign dignitaries and merchants in the mid-1800s and into the early 20th century. The neighborhood’s Western-style homes and buildings offer a fascinating peek into Kobe ’s colorful history and international influences. Several of the well-preserved buildings are open to the public for minimal admission fees. In this area, you can also find several stylish cafes and restaurants. Visitors to Kitano -cho who wish to enjoy a deeper experience in the neighborhood may wish to stay at the Kobe Kitano Hotel , an auberge hotel with architecture featuring the atmosphere of the area.

2. Tantalize your senses at Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens

Japan’s largest herb gardens , Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens are home to over 75,000 herbs and flowers from about 200 varieties. Twelve different gardens showcase seasonal flora in bloom and are reached via a 10-minute ropeway ascent that offers an amazing view of Kobe . The gardens are an excellent place to thrill your senses and treat yourself to an extravaganza of color and fragrance. The Fragrance Museum features nearly 80 essential oils to compare and delight your senses, and the Herbal Footbath is soothing for both body and mind. Open all year round, the gardens welcome guests of all ages. Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens are simultaneously relaxing, romantic, educational, and inspiring, well-suited to any type of visitor.

3. See the spectacular night view from the Rokko Garden Terrace or Mt. Maya

If you’re lodging around Kobe City, there’s a scene you’ll want to see – a sight said to be worth 10 million dollars. Kobe is known as one of Japan’s three most beautiful cities at night, and you’ll find the best view up north, atop the mountains of Mount Maya or Mount Rokko . Reaching an altitude of 932m, Mt. Rokko is the place for a magnificent view of Kobe . By day, Rokko Garden Terrace is a relaxing place for a stroll, with its exotic buildings, garden , and cozy cafes . By night, the entire experience is transformed into a spectacle of light, with a dazzling view of Kobe and Osaka below. Like many of Kobe ’s sights, the Terrace is open to all ages and seasonal events add to the allure of this scenic location. Even better, Kobe ’s bay area lights up after the sun sets. We encourage you to take a walk as you take in the beautiful, romantic scenery. Sightseeing in the morning, world-class lunch in the afternoon, and a stroll against amazing scenery at night. Taking a trip to Kobe has something to offer for every part of the day, we encourage you to set up a schedule and plan out your sightseeing trip.

4. Take a sake-tasting tour of the Nada & Gogo areas

Kobe 's Nada District produces a staggering one-third of Japan’s sake, so if you’re a sake connoisseur – or want to become one – a tour of this area is a memorable way to satisfy your interests. Tours come in a variety of flavors, from taxi tours to guided tasting tours. They often include scenic locations related to sake production and Kobe ’s brewing history. Knowledgeable guides introduce you to breweries’ histories and Kobe ’s sake culture. Best of all, you’ll be able to sample several types of high-quality sake!

5. Enjoy fine art at the Yokoo Tadanori Museum

One of Japan’s most well-known artists, Yokoo Tadanori has been receiving attention since the mid-1960s. At the Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art , art lovers can see nearly 3,000 pieces created by Yokoo himself, as well as exhibitions by other artists. Located in Kobe ’s Nada Ward, museum entry is free for high school students and younger, and the museum also offers lectures, workshops, and more for guests of all ages.

6. Take a trip back in time in Arima Onsen

One of Japan’s three oldest hot springs and recognized as one of the best in the country, Arima Onsen is near Kobe (on the opposite side of Mt. Rokko ), yet still secluded and peaceful. There you can bathe in hot springs that are beneficial to the skin and soothing for muscles and joints and multiple hotels and bathing facilities. There’s also a distinctly artistic aspect to the area with traditional bamboo crafts produced in Arima and performances by local geisha. Getting around town is easy with tourist maps available in English, Chinese, and Korean at the tourist information center .

8. Let go of your cares at Tsuki-no-yufune Onsen

A public bath within Kobe itself, Tsuki-no-yufune has nine baths sourced from both underground springs and the Seto Inland Sea, a feature unique to the facility. With both indoor and outdoor baths and saunas, it’s a relaxing spa that’s great for unwinding after a day of sightseeing and recharging for the next leg of your tour. With modern stylings, Tsuki-no-yufune also features a variety of salons and restaurants for your all-around well-being. Guests of all ages are welcome, but please note that entrance is prohibited for persons with tattoos and services are offered in Japanese only.

8. Stroll around Sorakuen Garden

Also in the heart of the city, Sorakuen Garden is an oasis of nature in the midst of Kobe ’s thriving urban cityscape. Completed a century ago, it’s an easily accessible place to take in the artistry of a classic Japanese garden and is beautiful throughout all four seasons , with the spring azalea festival and autumn chrysanthemum exhibit serving as annual highlights.

Sample OSAKA-KYOTO-NARA-KOBE DIY Itinerary: 4, 5, 6 Days

The Kansai Region is the perfect destination if it’s your first time in Japan. It is rich in cultural heritage, evident in the number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that dot its map, yet its biggest city, Osaka, also feels undoubtedly modern and futuristic. It also prepares you for the craziness and fast pace of Tokyo, if you also plan on paying the capital a visit.

The itineraries below will take you to four of Kansai’s biggest tourist destinations: Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe and Nara. All these involve spending your nights in Osaka and visiting the other destinations only on a day trip.

Note that the indicated costs and times are just rough estimates that are meant to give you a ballpark figure. The actual prices and schedules may be different in reality so always double check with official sources. The estimates also have big margins. Better overestimate than under. Please make the necessary adjustments to match your conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, you may check out these guides:

✅ Osaka Travel Guide ✅ Kyoto Travel Guide

If you’re only interested in Osaka and Kyoto and not Kobe or Nara, we have a dedicated post for that too:

✅ Osaka-Kyoto Itineraries

Tip! Rent a pocket wi-fi for hassle-free travels!

The language barrier in Osaka is real, so you can save a lot of time and avoid stress if you’re connected to the Internet, which you can use to translate and navigate. You can reserve one in advance via Klook for only PhP 389 per day for unlimited 4G access. That’s a lot cheaper than those you will find at Kansai airport. The best part, if you’re a group, you can connect multiple devices hassle-free. You can then split the cost with your friends. You can pick up the device at the airport. No deposit is required .

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Osaka-Nara-Kyoto: 4 Days, 3 nights

Duration: 4 days, 3 nights Hotel stop: 3 nights in Osaka

PASSES YOU NEED:

Day 2: OSAKA CITY TOUR 05:00am – Wake up 06:00am – Subway to Tamagawa Station (Endo Sushi), FREE (OA Pass) 07:00am – Breakfast at Endo Sushi, ¥1242 08:30am – Subway to Tanimachiyonchome Station (Osaka Castle), FREE (OA Pass) 09:00am – Osaka Castle, FREE (OA Pass) 12:00nn – Subway to Nakatsu Station (Ramen Yashichi), FREE (OA Pass) 12:30nn – Lunch at Ramen Yashichi, ¥730 02:30pm – Subway to from Nakatsu to Umeda, FREE (OA Pass) 03:00pm – Umeda Sky Building Observatory, FREE (OA Pass) 04:30pm – Subway from Umeda to Namba, FREE (OA Pass) 05:00pm – Tombori River Cruise, FREE, (OA Pass) 06:00pm – Dotonbori Night Tour, FREE (OA Pass) 07:30pm – Early dinner at Tokisushi, ¥1134 10:30pm – Back to hotel, lights out

Day 3: NARA DAY TOUR 06:30am – Wake up call 08:00am – Walk to Osaka-Namba Station 08:06am – Osaka-Namba Station to KintetsuNara, ¥560 09:00am – Sarusawa-ike Pond 10:00am – Kofuku-ji Temple, museum, eastern hall, ¥800 12:00nn – Lunch, ¥1000 01:30pm – Gango-ji Temple, ¥500 03:00pm – Kasuga Taisha Shrine, ¥500 04:30pm – Nara Park, FREE 06:00pm – Dinner, ¥1500 07:08pm – Train to Osaka-Namba, ¥560

Day 4: KYOTO DAY TOUR 07:00am – Wake up, hotel check out 08:00am – JR Trains to Kyoto Station, FREE (JR West Pass) 09:00am – Leave bags in locker, ¥700 09:50am – Train to Saga-Arashiyama, FREE (JR West Pass) 10:10am – Explore Arashiyama, Tenryuji Fee: ¥500 12:00pm – Train to Kyoto Station, FREE 12:30pm – Lunch, ¥1000 01:40pm – Train to Inari Station, FREE (JR West Pass) 02:00pm – Fushimi Inari Shrine, FREE 04:00pm – Train to Kyoto Station, FREE 04:30pm – JR Ltd. Exp. Haruka train, FREE (JR West Pass) 06:00pm – Dinner, ¥1500 07:00pm – Flight check in 09:15pm – Flight out

Cost Estimate: JPY 29,000 (USD259, SGD355, PHP14000, EUR222), excluding airfare and hotel.

Osaka-Kyoto-Nara: 4 Days, 4 nights

Duration: 4 days, 4 nights Hotel stop: 4 nights in Osaka

This one assumes you’re landing at Kansai Airport at night, so we added a Day 0 (Night 1). Another difference between this and the previous 4D itinerary is that you will also have a full day and night in Kyoto, but you will be visiting Kiyomizu-dera instead of Fushimi Inari Shrine. You will be visiting Nara on your last day.

Day 0 08:10pm – Arrival at Kansai Airport 09:10pm – Collect Klook passes at Arrival Hall 09:54pm – Board Nankai Airport Express to Namba, ¥920 10:30pm – Check-in at the hotel

Day 1: OSAKA 07:00am – Wake up call 08:30am – Subway to Tanimachiyonchome Station (Osaka Castle), FREE (OA Pass) 09:00am – Osaka Castle, FREE (OA Pass) 12:00nn – Subway to Nakatsu Station (Ramen Yashichi), FREE (OA Pass) 12:30nn – Lunch at Ramen Yashichi, ¥730 02:30pm – Subway to from Nakatsu to Umeda, FREE (OA Pass) 03:00pm – Umeda Sky Building Observatory, FREE (OA Pass) 04:30pm – Subway from Umeda to Namba, FREE (OA Pass) 05:00pm – Walk around Dotonbori 06:00pm – Japan Night Walk Tour, FREE (OA Pass) 08:00pm – Dinner at Tokisushi or Menya Jorouku Ramen, ¥1200 09:00pm – Back to hotel, sleep

Day 2: UNIVERSAL STUDIOS 05:00am – Wake up call 06:00am – Subway to Tamagawa Station, ¥230 07:00am – Breakfast at Endo Sushi, ¥1242 09:00am – Train from Noda Station to Universal City, ¥160 09:15am – Universal Studios Japan, ¥7900 + ¥1500 lunch 08:00pm – Train to Osaka-Namba Station, ¥360 09:00pm – Dinner, ¥1000

Day 3: KYOTO 07:00am – Wake up call 08:00am – Subway to Umeda Station, FREE (KT Pass) 08:30am – Hankyu train to Arashiyama, FREE (KT Pass) 09:30am – Explore Arashiyama, Tenryuji Fee: ¥500 12:00pm – Train to Kawaramachi Station, FREE (KT Pass) 12:30pm – Lunch at Butaya ton Ichi Teramachi, ¥1200 01:30pm – Walk to Gion District 02:00pm – Yasaka Shrine, FREE 03:00pm – Walk to Higashiyama District 04:00pm – Kiyomizu-dera Temple, ¥400 06:00pm – Walk to Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop 06:30pm – Bus 207 to Shijo Kawaramachi Bus Stop, ¥230 07:30pm – Hankyu Train to Umeda Station, FREE (KT Pass) 08:30pm – Subway to Namba Station, FREE (KT Pass) 09:00pm – Dinner, ¥1000

Day 4: NARA, DEPARTURE 06:30am – Check out, walk to Osaka-Namba Station 07:30am – Store luggage in locker, ¥700 08:06am – Train to Kintetsu-Nara Station, FREE (KT Pass) 09:00am – Explore 2 temples, entrance fee budget: ¥1300 12:00nn – Lunch, ¥1000 01:30pm – Nara Park 02:30pm – Kintetsu Train to Osaka-Namba, FREE (KT Pass) 04:00pm – Nankai Train to Airport, FREE (KT Pass) 05:30pm – Check in 08:30pm – Flight out

Cost Estimate: JPY 30,000 (USD279, SGD378, PHP14300, EUR247), excluding plane tickets and accommodations.

Osaka-Nara-Kyoto: 5 Days, 4 nights

Duration: 5 days, 4 nights Hotel stop: 4 nights in Osaka

Day 1: DOTONBORI 12:30pm – Arrival at Kansai Airport 01:00pm – Collect Klook Passes at Arrival Hall 01:39pm – Nankai Airport Express to Namba, ¥920 02:15pm – Walk to hotel 02:40pm – Hotel check in, freshen up 04:30pm – Kuromon Market, Budget: ¥1500 06:00pm – Dotonbori 08:00pm – Dinner at Tokisushi, ¥1134 10:00pm – Back to hotel, lights out

Day 3: OSAKA CITY TOUR 05:00am – Wake up 06:00am – Subway to Tamagawa Station (Endo Sushi), FREE (OA Pass) 07:00am – Breakfast at Endo Sushi, ¥1242 08:30am – Subway to Tanimachiyonchome Station (Osaka Castle), FREE (OA Pass) 09:00am – Osaka Castle, FREE (OA Pass) 12:00nn – Subway to Nakatsu Station (Ramen Yashichi), FREE (OA Pass) 12:30nn – Lunch at Ramen Yashichi, ¥730 02:30pm – Subway to from Nakatsu to Umeda, FREE (OA Pass) 03:00pm – Umeda Sky Building Observatory, FREE (OA Pass) 04:30pm – Subway from Umeda to Namba, FREE (OA Pass) 05:00pm – Tombori River Cruise, FREE, (OA Pass) 06:00pm – Dotonbori Night Tour, FREE (OA Pass) 07:30pm – Early dinner at Tokisushi, ¥1134 10:30pm – Back to hotel, lights out

Day 4: NARA DAY TOUR 06:30am – Wake up call 08:00am – Walk to Osaka-Namba Station 08:06am – Osaka-Namba Station to KintetsuNara, ¥560 09:00am – Sarusawa-ike Pond 10:00am – Kofuku-ji Temple, museum, eastern hall, ¥800 12:00nn – Lunch, ¥1000 01:30pm – Gango-ji Temple, ¥500 03:00pm – Kasuga Taisha Shrine, ¥500 04:30pm – Nara Park, FREE 06:00pm – Dinner, ¥1500 07:08pm – Train to Osaka-Namba, ¥560

Day 5: KYOTO DAY TOUR 07:00am – Wake up, hotel check out 08:00am – JR Trains to Kyoto Station, FREE (JR West Pass) 09:00am – Leave bags in locker, ¥700 09:50am – Train to Saga-Arashiyama, FREE (JR West Pass) 10:10am – Explore Arashiyama, Tenryuji Fee: ¥500 12:00pm – Train to Kyoto Station, FREE 12:30pm – Lunch, ¥1000 01:40pm – Train to Inari Station, FREE (JR West Pass) 02:00pm – Fushimi Inari Shrine, FREE 04:00pm – Train to Kyoto Station, FREE 04:30pm – JR Ltd. Exp. Haruka train, FREE (JR West Pass) 06:00pm – Dinner, ¥1500 07:00pm – Flight check in 09:15pm – Flight out

Cost Estimate: JPY 35,000 (USD313, SGD429, PHP17000, EUR268), excluding plane tickets and accommodations.

Osaka-Kyoto-Kobe-Nara: 5 Days, 5 nights

Duration: 5 days, 5 nights Hotel stop: 5 nights in Osaka

Day 1: KOBE DAY TOUR 07:00am – Wake up call 08:00am – Subway to Umeda Station, ¥230 08:20am – Hanshin train to Mikage Station, FREE (Hanshin Pass) 09:20am – Kobe City Bus 16 to Rokko Cable Shita, FREE (Hanshin Pass) 10:00am – Cable Car to Rokko Cable Sanjo Station, FREE (Rokkosan Pass) 10:30am – Rokko Sanjo Bus to Rokko Snow Park, FREE (Rokkosan Pass) 10:45am – Rokko Snow Park, ¥2100 11:00am – Lunch, Restaurant Alpen Rose, ¥1200 12:00pm – Snow Activities 03:00pm – Sanjo Bus to Rokko Cable Sanjo Station, FREE (Rokkosan Pass) 03:15pm – Cable Car to Rokko Cable Shita Station, FREE (Rokkosan Pass) 03:45pm – Kobe City Bus 16 to Mikage Station, FREE (Hanshin Pass) 04:15pm – Hanshin train to Motomachi Station, FREE (Hanshin Pass) 04:45pm – Kobe Harborland. FREE. 07:30pm – Hanshin Train to Umeda Station, FREE (Hanshin Pass) 08:10pm – Dinner: Hanshin Department Store Snack Park, ¥1500 09:00pm – HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, ¥600. 10:30pm – Subway to Namba Station, ¥230

Day 2: OSAKA TOUR 07:00am – Wake up call 08:30am – Subway to Tanimachiyonchome Station (Osaka Castle), FREE (OA Pass) 09:00am – Osaka Castle, FREE (OA Pass) 12:00nn – Subway to Nakatsu Station (Ramen Yashichi), FREE (OA Pass) 12:30nn – Lunch at Ramen Yashichi, ¥730 02:30pm – Subway to from Nakatsu to Umeda, FREE (OA Pass) 03:00pm – Umeda Sky Building Observatory, FREE (OA Pass) 04:30pm – Subway from Umeda to Namba, FREE (OA Pass) 05:00pm – Walk around Dotonbori 06:00pm – Japan Night Walk Tour, FREE (OA Pass) 08:00pm – Dinner at Tokisushi or Menya Jorouku Ramen, ¥1200 09:00pm – Back to hotel, sleep

Day 3: UNIVERSAL STUDIOS 05:00am – Wake up call 06:00am – Subway to Tamagawa Station, ¥230 07:00am – Breakfast at Endo Sushi, ¥1242 09:00am – Train from Noda Station to Universal City, ¥160 09:15am – Universal Studios Japan, ¥7900 + ¥1500 lunch 08:00pm – Train to Osaka-Namba Station, ¥360 09:00pm – Dinner, ¥1000

Day 4: KYOTO DAY TOUR 07:00am – Wake up call 08:00am – Subway to Umeda Station, FREE (KT Pass) 08:30am – Hankyu train to Arashiyama, FREE (KT Pass) 09:30am – Explore Arashiyama, Tenryuji Fee: ¥500 12:00pm – Train to Kawaramachi Station, FREE (KT Pass) 12:30pm – Lunch at Butaya ton Ichi Teramachi, ¥1200 01:30pm – Walk to Gion District 02:00pm – Yasaka Shrine, FREE 03:00pm – Walk to Higashiyama District 04:00pm – Kiyomizu-dera Temple, ¥400 06:00pm – Walk to Kiyomizu-michi Bus Stop 06:30pm – Bus 207 to Shijo Kawaramachi Bus Stop, ¥230 07:30pm – Hankyu Train to Umeda Station, FREE (KT Pass) 08:30pm – Subway to Namba Station, FREE (KT Pass) 09:00pm – Dinner, ¥1000

Day 5: NARA DAY TOUR 06:30am – Check out, walk to Osaka-Namba Station 07:30am – Store luggage in locker, ¥700 08:06am – Train to Kintetsu-Nara Station, FREE (KT Pass) 09:00am – Explore 2 temples, entrance fee budget: ¥1300 12:00nn – Lunch, ¥1000 01:30pm – Nara Park 02:30pm – Kintetsu Train to Osaka-Namba, FREE (KT Pass) 04:00pm – Nankai Train to Airport, FREE (KT Pass) 05:30pm – Check in 08:30pm – Flight out

Cost Estimate: JPY 39,000 (USD362, SGD490, PHP18500, EUR320), excluding plane tickets, accommodations, and snow activities at Rokko Snow Park.

Osaka-Nara-Kobe-Kyoto: 6 Days, 5 nights

Duration: 6 days, 5 nights Hotel stop: 5 nights in Osaka

Day 2: KOBE DAY TOUR 07:00am – Wake up call 08:00am – Subway to Umeda Station, ¥230 08:20am – Hanshin train to Mikage Station, FREE (Hanshin Pass) 09:20am – Kobe City Bus 16 to Rokko Cable Shita, FREE (Hanshin Pass) 10:00am – Cable Car to Rokko Cable Sanjo Station, FREE (Rokkosan Pass) 10:30am – Rokko Sanjo Bus to Rokko Snow Park, FREE (Rokkosan Pass) 10:45am – Rokko Snow Park, ¥2100 11:00am – Lunch, Restaurant Alpen Rose, ¥1200 12:00pm – Snow Activities 03:00pm – Sanjo Bus to Rokko Cable Sanjo Station, FREE (Rokkosan Pass) 03:15pm – Cable Car to Rokko Cable Shita Station, FREE (Rokkosan Pass) 03:45pm – Kobe City Bus 16 to Mikage Station, FREE (Hanshin Pass) 04:15pm – Hanshin train to Motomachi Station, FREE (Hanshin Pass) 04:45pm – Kobe Harborland. FREE. 07:30pm – Hanshin Train to Umeda Station, FREE (Hanshin Pass) 08:10pm – Dinner: Hanshin Department Store Snack Park, ¥1500 09:00pm – HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel, ¥600. 10:30pm – Subway to Namba Station, ¥230

Day 4: OSAKA CITY TOUR 05:00am – Wake up 06:00am – Subway to Tamagawa Station (Endo Sushi), FREE (OA Pass) 07:00am – Breakfast at Endo Sushi, ¥1242 08:30am – Subway to Tanimachiyonchome Station (Osaka Castle), FREE (OA Pass) 09:00am – Osaka Castle, FREE (OA Pass) 12:00nn – Subway to Nakatsu Station (Ramen Yashichi), FREE (OA Pass) 12:30nn – Lunch at Ramen Yashichi, ¥730 02:30pm – Subway to from Nakatsu to Umeda, FREE (OA Pass) 03:00pm – Umeda Sky Building Observatory, FREE (OA Pass) 04:30pm – Subway from Umeda to Namba, FREE (OA Pass) 05:00pm – Tombori River Cruise, FREE, (OA Pass) 06:00pm – Dotonbori Night Tour, FREE (OA Pass) 07:30pm – Early dinner at Tokisushi, ¥1134 10:30pm – Back to hotel, lights out

Day 5: NARA DAY TOUR 06:30am – Wake up call 08:00am – Walk to Osaka-Namba Station 08:06am – Osaka-Namba Station to KintetsuNara, ¥560 09:00am – Sarusawa-ike Pond 10:00am – Kofuku-ji Temple, museum, eastern hall, ¥800 12:00nn – Lunch, ¥1000 01:30pm – Gango-ji Temple, ¥500 03:00pm – Kasuga Taisha Shrine, ¥500 04:30pm – Nara Park, FREE 06:00pm – Dinner, ¥1500 07:08pm – Train to Osaka-Namba, ¥560

Day 6: KYOTO DAY TOUR 07:00am – Wake up, hotel check out 08:00am – JR Trains to Kyoto Station, FREE (JR West Pass) 09:00am – Leave bags in locker, ¥700 09:50am – Train to Saga-Arashiyama, FREE (JR West Pass) 10:10am – Explore Arashiyama, Tenryuji Fee: ¥500 12:00pm – Train to Kyoto Station, FREE 12:30pm – Lunch, ¥1000 01:40pm – Train to Inari Station, FREE (JR West Pass) 02:00pm – Fushimi Inari Shrine, FREE 04:00pm – Train to Kyoto Station, FREE 04:30pm – JR Ltd. Exp. Haruka train, FREE (JR West Pass) 06:00pm – Dinner, ¥1500 07:00pm – Flight check in 09:15pm – Flight out

Cost Estimate: JPY 43,000 (USD384, SGD527, PHP20800, EUR329), not counting hotels and plane tickets.

Budget Tips

If you’re on a tight budget, here are some ways to bring down the cost.

• Avoid eating out. All the itineraries above assume you’re eating out for every meal. Staying in a place with a kitchen or go to the grocery/supermarket for food instead of restaurants.
• If you must eat out, do so for lunch. I know, I know. You’re in Japan. It would be a shame to not experience its dining scene. If you really have to eat out, do so for lunch when you’re already out. For dinner, you can just buy something from the supermarket. This way, you have a perfect balance of supermarket and restaurant food.
• Skip Universal Studios Japan. You’ll be able to save 7900 yen if you replace it with something much cheaper.
• Drop the other destinations. The biggest fraction of the cost is spent on transportation. Visiting multiple destinations push the total expenses much higher. If budget is a concern, drop the other cities and focus on just one or two. To be honest, Osaka and Kyoto alone can fill a full week’s itinerary. You don’t have to see everything. You can have more fun if you don’t feel like you’re not on the season finale of the Amazing Race. Choose one or two destinations and stick to them.

Where to Book Tours

The budget estimate above is based on DIY. But if you want to join day tours instead, you can too. This way you have a travel guide so you could appreciate the significance and history of the sites better and some transfers/transportation too.

Top Budget Hotels and Hostels in Osaka (Under $70)

Search for more osaka hotels.

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More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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hi. would like to know if you used a jr west pass?or an osaka amazing pass? what do you recommend? thanks

Hi Marian. We have updated the post just now, so hopefully our update answers your question. :D

Hi whats the best pass to use? We will be staying in Osaka Nov 27-Dec3. We will be heading to nearby cities like Nara and Kyoto.

Hi Zhiara, depende kasi talaga sya sa itinerary mo eh. This post might be able to help: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/10/kansai-thru-pass-jr-osaka-amazing-icoca-best-difference/

Hi! we are planning a trip to Osaka for 6days. Planning to do your IT guide for Osaka-Kyoto-Nara/Kobe. My 70 yr old Mom will be joining us, do you think di sya mahihirapan if we follow your itinerary? if not, any suggestion? Thanks in advance!

Hi Dine, in general, these itineraries involve a lot of walking that can’t be helped if DIY. Example, the Osaka Castle grounds, it’s vast. It really requires a lot of walking.

So di ko sure if appropriate sa mom mo. Depende rin kasi sa current fitness nya. I know my mom, who is also a senior citizen, can do this itinerary with no problem. But my aunt na halos ka-age nya, hindi na kaya.

I patterned my trip to one of your itineraries when I went to Hong Kong-Macau last year and it was very useful.

Will be in Osaka spring this year and I’m planning to do the 6-day itinerary.

Would you recommend I get an ICOCA IC card for this itinerary?

Hi Russell,

We’re currently in Kansai exploring Osaka/Kobe/Kyoto etc. We’ll be updating this very soon so baka mas ok ung updated na.

But to answer your question, yep. For the 6-day itinerary, the ICOCA card will be useful.

Will wait for your updates then.

Thanks Yoshke.

On the days that you did not use a pass (e.g. days 4 and 5 on your 6-day sample itinerary), did you just use an ICOCA card? If so, hindi ba sya more expensive, since regular fare sya? Thanks!

We’re actually currently writing a new set of itineraries to replace these dahil kakagaling lang namin from Kansai ulit.

You can use the itinerary in this post instead: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2018/03/what-to-do-in-osaka/#SAMPLE_OSAKA_ITINERARY

The sample there is only 1 5-Day itinerary so if you want to add Kobe, you can insert this 1-day itinerary to it: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2019/02/diy-kobe-days-trip-itinerary-osaka/

Hi Other days with Yen amount, what train or pass need to buy so that it save money?

If i have extra days which is 7days in total, what do you do for extra days? do you go for kyoto for the extra days? or somewhere else in osaka?

Personally, I’d spend another day in Kyoto and visit other sites.

Hi good day,

We need your suggestion please, as we have a family trip coming this May 25 to 29 arrival in Osaka then exit in Nagoya. Its too hard for us to decide which pass we will avail Kintetsu Pass and amazing pass? do we still need to avail the hankyu for Kyoto day tour? thanks much and God bless. jean

Hi Jean, can you share the details of your itinerary?

Hi! Your posts have been extremely helpful, thank you so much.

We’re planning on an Osaka-Kyoto-Nara trip in 8 days for our honeymoon. 1 day for Nara, 5 days to explore Osaka (incl Universal Studios and Minoo Park). Our IT is not set in stone yet, but having read your posts related to Kyoto, I feel like Kyoto should be 2 days if we want to do Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama Bamboo Groves, Tenryu-ji and a leisurely stroll around Gion in kimonos.

Would you recommend staying the night in Kyoto instead of going back and forth from Osaka? I can’t tell if switching hotels with luggage is less of a hassle and less costly than having to travel ‘balikan’ to/from Osaka…

Additionally, if we have a JR West pass, do we still need a Hankyu Tourist Pass? Appreciate your guidance.

I would definitely recommend staying longer in Kyoto if you have more time. I always spend at least 3 days in Kyoto because I love the vibe of the city.

Actually this post is a bit outdated. We would recommend using Kansai Thru Pass instead. It covers Hankyu network too. We just haven’t found the time to update this post, but basically, Kansai Thru Pass will be more cost-efficient.

Hi I will be going to Osaka 3 – 15 Nov 19. I intend to cover Osaka, Kyoto & Kobe during this trip but if my time allows & worth going, I would love to cover Nara too. I will be arriving in the morning around 9am on 3 Nov and I’m wondering where I should start exploring 1st – Osaka or Kyoto? Also I have heard about the different passes available but i’m still a bit confuse. If my itinerary covers these places – Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe & Nara, is Kansai Thru Pass sufficient? Or should I also get a JR pass ? Also I dont see many people talk about Kobe – is a day trip gd enough or should I at least spend 1 night there? Sorry, It’s my 1st trip to the Kansai area and there is so much to read. & check..I’m feeling a bit giddy already.. haha… Thanks!

Hi Kimi, no need for JR Pass if you’re staying within Kansai region. A Kansai Thru Pass in combination with city passes are often enough. You just need to build your itinerary well.

Since you have plenty of time, you can stay overnight in Kobe if you want. :)

Hi! We’ll be travelling to Kansai region some time this month with Osaka as our base city. Our itinerary is as follows: Day 1 – Arrive Osaka Day 2 – Universal Studios Japan Day 3 – Osaka Day 4 – Osaka Day 5 – Kyoto Day 6 – Kyoto Day 7 – Kobe Day 8 – Nara park; flight back to Manila

We already purchased the ICOCA IC Card and Osaka Amazing Pass; however, I’m still not sure which passes we should use, specifically for Days 5-7. I have read in some of your blog posts that you recommend buying separate passes (Hankyu and/or Hanshin w/ Rokkosan). But I think those are outdated since I have also seen in the comments that you think the Kansai Thru Pass would be cost-efficient. As of now, which passes should we use given our itinerary?

Looking forward to your reply. Thanks!

Hi Vashtie Uy. I have 8 days din. Is the itinerary you mentioned okay?

Hi Vashtie,

Yung nirerecommend ko is depende talaga sa itinerary. If kunyari, Kobe lang, I would recommend just Hanshin Pass. Pero if may ibang cities involved, mas okay ang KTP.

In your case, I recommend a combination of 3-day Kansai Thru Pass, Hanshin Pass, Hankyu Pass, and Osaka Amazing Pass.

Day 1 – KTP (Day 1) Day 2 – No pass Day 3-4 – Osaka Amazing Pass Day 5 – Hankyu Pass — visit Kyoto attractions along Hankyu line Day 6 – KTP (Day 2) — visit other Kyoto attractions na wala sa Hankyu line Day 7 – Hanshin Pass Day 8 – KTP (Day 3)

Your reply is very much appreciated! Thank you so much. :)

Hi – thank you for all the information you’ve been sharing. Such a huge help esp to those who are going there for the first time :)

Question! If Day 0 we’ll be arriving 8:00 PM at Osaka, Day 1 will be in Kyoto (We’ll use JR West Pass as I saw on your blog), Day 2 will be in Nara (Just Sarusawa-ike Pond, Kofuku-ji Temple, Nara Park), Day 3 USJ, Day 4 Osaka Castle then fly out at 3:00 PM. Which pass will you recommend to go around and for the airport transfers?

Don’t book the JR West Pass if you’re going to use it for Osaka-Kyoto only. For me, it only makes sense to use it for Kyoto if you’re airport-bound on the same day and you’re taking the Haruka train.

Otherwise, get a cheaper pass for Kyoto like Hankyu Pass or Osaka-Kyoto Keihan Pass.

Given your itinerary, other than the Kyoto day, it might be better to not use passes for other days. Just use ICOCA instead. I could be wrong but that’s what I would do.

Thank you so much for replying. After our Osaka-Kyoto-Nara, we’ll be flying to Sapporo then fly to Tokyo. One more question please, does this mean we’ll need ICOCA, Kitaca and Suica cards? There’s no card for all the destinations?

Hi Ella, no, you need just one card. All of them works JR/subways with IC readers.

You can use ICOCA in Hokkaido and Tokyo.

Likewise, you can use SUICA in Kansai and Hokkaido.

Will the hankyu and rokkosan pass cover my one day trip to kobe if I follow your itinerary for kobe (sake brewery museum+Mt.Rokko)?

Yep! We have a more detailed version of that 1-day Kobe itinerary here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2019/02/diy-kobe-days-trip-itinerary-osaka/

Hi Yoshke! Thank you for sharing the information. This is my IT Day 1: arrived at kansai airport (9 am) then strolling aroud osaka Day 2: strolling around osaka Day 3: shopping around namba/dotonburi Day 4: usj Day 5: kyoto (fushimi inari, gion, kiyomizudera) Day 6: kyoto (arashiyama) then nara (half days)

My question; On day 1 and 2 im going to use osaka amazing pass 2 days. But this pass wont cover my trip from kansai. What pass should i use? Day 3 and 4 i will use icoca And can you suggest what pass should i take for day 5 and 6?

Thank you very much

Hi Michelle,

For Day 1, you can use Yokoso Osaka ticket instead. It covers the journey from airport to city center. You can also use it to explore Osaka.

For Day 5-6, where is your hotel? Osaka or Kyoto? And will u be going back to the airport after Nara? What time is your flight?

For transport from kansai, is it easier to take train or bus? And what kind of train/bus? My family will bring lots of luggages. I’m afraid if we take train, we cant have seat and need to carry the luggages

For day 5-6 i will stay at osaka. Day 7 will go to tokyo by shinkansen in the morning (9 am)

Re BUS vs TRAIN from airport, check the location of your hotel. If it’s closer to a Nankai Airport Express Station (Nankai Namba, etc) or JR KANSAI AIRPORT Rapid Line Station (Tennoji, Osaka St.), then okay lang ang train kasi direct and walang transfer along that line. Marami namang trains so if puno na ung isa, wait for the next para makaupo.

If mas malapit sa OCAT or other bus stops, then bus.

For Day 5, you can use Osaka-Kyoto Sightseeing Pass by Keihan.

For Day 6, parang better if i-ICOCA mo na lang din.

Thank you so much!! Really appreciate your kindnes

Will be visiting Osaka this coming October. Currently looking at the “Osaka-Kyoto-Kobe-Nara: 5 Days, 5 nights” itenerary. Ask ko lang sana if same pa din ba ang mga “Passes” na needed to maximize our tour.

Thanks in Advance!

Thanks! Your post is very helpful sir!

Hi. Visiting Osaka this November for 7 days and will try this – Osaka-Nara-Kobe-Kyoto_6_Days_5_nights Should we buy the passes now or on November na before going to Japan? It seems Rokko Snow Park is closed (opening late November) but is is till worth to go there? Can’t find other Kobe itinerary as details as yours. It is our first time in Japan (2 adults) Thanks.

Marami naman pwedeng gawin sa Mt. Rokko, pero depende pa rin yun sa taste nyo kung ano ma-eenjoy nyo. Visit na lang this site, tapos check nyo if merong nag-aappeal sa inyo: https://www.rokkosan.com/en/

I hope you can reply. Appreciate your help in advance. What if our place is near IZUMISANO and we will be using your helpful itinerary which is Osaka-Kyoto-Kobe-Nara: 5 Days, 5 nights ?

Can you add the IZUMISANO as our start? Do we need another Train ticket? Please let me know.

Thank you so much.

I haven’t been to the Izumisano area so I can’t be sure. But upon checking, it looks like it’s close to the airport and is a bit too far from the city center of Osaka. If you make this your base, it can be quite challenging. Going from Izumisano to Kyoto or Kobe can take much longer than if you’re coming from the city center.

If you have no choice but to stay in Izumisano, then I suggest that you get a 3-DAY KANSAI THRU PASS and use it on the days that you will explore Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe. These are Days 1, 2 and 4 of your itinerary.

If you have the Kansai Thru Pass, you won’t need the Hanshin Pass.

You can still use an Osaka Amazing pass for Day 1 for the FREE entry to the attractions. If you’re not interested in the attractions and you only need to take the Osaka Metro, no need for the Osaka Amazing pass because the Kansai Thru Pass also comes with unlimited Osaka Metro rides.

Hello Sir, good day! My family and I will be visiting Osaka this coming December. While reading at your itinerary, Osaka-Nara-Kyoto: 5 Days, 4 nights to use as reference for our trip, I’m wondering if this passes will be possible if our hotel is near Osaka Ue Honmachi Station? And what card should we use if this is the direction going to the hotel?

from Kansai Airpot,

Nankai Kuko Line Kansai Kuko Station ↓ Namba (Transfer to Kintetsu Nara Line) ↓ Osaka Ue Honmachi Station ↓ Walk (6min)

I am really hoping for your positive response. Thank you and God bless!

Hi Gail, parang better yung 5D-5N sample for you kasi ung station near your place ay covered by Kansai Thru Pass. Remove Day 0 and i-adjust mo na lang yung Day 1. :)

Hi there! First, thanks so much for this blog as I get to have an idea how to plan out travel accordingly.

Have a question on the best Rail Pass. Will be flying via Kansai airport for Osaka-Kyoto-Nara-Nagoya trip within all within 6days and Tokyo for 7days flying out from Narita airport. Except for the theme parks, will follow your itinerary most days. Is JR Pass worth it just to navigate from Kansai Airport-Namba-Nagoya-Shinjuku-Narita? Im thinking of Kintetsu pass then just get a Tokyo Suica? Thanks.

Hi Harriette,

Yep, Kintetsu Rail Pass might be the better choice for you. Then use additional city passes like Osaka Amazing Pass for Osaka, Meguru Pass for Nagoya, and IC cards (SUICA/PASMO) for Tokyo. :)

Super thanks!

Hi, we will be having our 5-day family trip to Osaka-Kyoto-Nara this coming December. And I really don’t know what passess to avail. But I am trying to follow your 4days, 4 night itinerary.

Hi! I’m traveling to KIX in December and we arrive midday, 3pm. Our itinerary is flexible in the first 2.5 days and it’s tied down in the remaining 3 days

Day 1: Osaka Downtown Day 2: Cup noodles, asahi, and anywhere from here (suggestions pls) Day 3: Kobe day tour (sake museum, mt. rokko) Day 4: Osaka City Tour (Castle, Umeda, Dotonbori) – OA Pass Day 5: USJ Day 6: Kyoto-Nara – Private Tour

For the first 3 days, should I just get the Kansai Thru Pass or a mixture of the different passes. Let me know. Would greatly appreciate it. Thanks

I’d just get Hanshin Pass for Kobe day and probably ICOCA for Days 1-2.

A bit of help please with the pass to use.

Day 0 – Arrival at night time at Osaka Airport – ICOCA Day 1 – Osaka Castle then Mie Prefecture for Nabano No Sato Day 2 – Kyoto – Arashiyama + Inari then Nara for Deer Park Day 3 – USJ Day 4 – Flight to Hokkaido in the afternoon

Which passes should I get? —Will the Kintetsu Rail Pass Plus (5 days) be enough? Then ICOCA for the rest?

Thank you so much for your time and effort.

Yes, I think Kintetsu Rail Pass is the best pass for this. Just mind your timings on Day 1 because Nabano No Sato is far from Osaka.

hi, Merry Christmas!

Me and my family is going to Japan/Osaka Jan12-18, all DiY. I would really want to experience going to a Ski Resort. One of your IT in Kobe includes Rokko Park, but i am considering Hakodateyama too. what is your recommendation on this?

I haven’t been to Hakodateyama so I can’t make any recommendation. But from what I have heard, Hakodateyama is bigger and has slopes for intermediate and advanced skiers.

Rokko Snow Park is mainly for beginners. It’s pretty small and has only one slope for skiers, and it’s a gentle slope.

thanks for the prompt reply! follow up question, if we will just go to Kyoto for 1 day from Osaka, what would you recommend?? KTpass? JRwest pass? day tours from Osaka? (klook)

we are a family of 6, (4kids+parents).

Depends on your itinerary for that day.

If you follow this itinerary, you’ll need a Hankyu Pass: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2019/02/kyoto-day-trip-diy-itinerary/

Re: Osaka-Nara-Kyoto: 5 Days, 4 nights

Dear Yoshke,

For Day 2 – Universsl Studios, pls advise if you really mean 930PM or 930AM to Universal Studios. I am quite confused by the following:

Day 2: UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN 07:00am – Wake up call 08:20am – Walk to JR-Namba Station 09:00am – Train to UniversalCity Station, ¥180 09:30pm – Universal Studios Japan, ¥7900, Reserve Here! Food expenses: ¥2500 08:00pm – Train to Namba, ¥410 08:40pm – Hotel check in 09:00pm – Late dinner, ¥1000 10:30pm – Back to hotel, lights out

Pls advise also if there is a change in hotel room here as I noticed that there is Hotel check-in at 8:40pm.

I would appreciate your feedback as I am planning my itinerary to these llaces.

Thanks so much in advance. LD

That should be 9:30am. Then the “hotel check in” should not be there at all.

Thanks for spotting! Great catch. Will update these.

i hope you can help me with this, my daughter , my mom (75yrs old ) and hubby will be going to osaka this month, they will be staying in ikuno ward , namba area, can you suggest any SENIOR friendly (less walk) spots? best to use ICOCA right since they want to go to Kyoto and Nara for a day tour. they will arrive around 12 noon might the Korean Town since the BNB is around that area. thank you po i hope you can answer my inquiry

What is the nearest station to their hotel?

I’m looking at your 5D5N itinerary. So I will be coming from Tokyo to Umeda through night bus and I’m not going through KIX, where can I buy or pickup the passes (Hanshin Tourist, Rokkosan Tourist, Osaka Amazing, Kansai Thru) in person if not through Klook or KIX?

The restriction of the passes says short stay visa, my visa is student and valid for one year. I’m from the Philippines but I’m here in Japan for exchange for only 4 months. Would there be issues on purchasing the passes?

Looking forward to your kind response. Thank you.

I have no idea about the student visa.

regarding where to pick up, the place where all the passes you mentioned are available is Hankyu Tourist Center Osaka-Umeda. There are many others, but that’s what’s in common to all of them. For other places, you can check out each card’s official pages. They usually have a list.

Hi update. I was able to buy OA pass at the station with no problem. However, I was refused the Hanshin and Rokkosan at ic Camera Namba due to my student visa status. If I fail to obtain the passes, how do you suppose I go about going to Rokko snow park and Kobe in general?

Good day, hope you can help me which PASS/icoca to purchase with below IT please, we’lll be travelling in Kansai region together with our 3 kids. See below for reference.

Day 1 – Arrival KIX Airport (Night) Can I just purchase Nankai Line Airport Express Ticket? Hotel is in Namba walking distance from Kintetsu-Nippombashi Station)

Day 2 – Osaka (Osaka Castle, Osaka Aquarium, Tonbori River Cruise, Dotonbori, Tempozan Ferris Wheel, Kuromun Market & Dotonbori -walking distance from our hotel)

Day 3 – Kyoto (Arashiyama, Tenryuji/Kinkaku-ji/Fushimi Inari Shrine/ Gion District/ Kiyomizu-dera Temple)

Day 4 – USJ (icoca?) Day 5 – USJ (icoca?)

Day 6 – Kobe (Mt. Rokko, snowpark, Kobe Harborland) go to Umeda

Day 7 – Nara then flight back to Manila (Explore 2temples & Nara Park) go back to namba for luggage, flight back to manila (Nankai Line express ticket to airport?)

May I know what passes will be applicable to our IT based on the updated Passes available on the market right now? Grateful if you can help us please. TIA.

Hi, would you have an itinerary that’s 9 days for Osaka, Kyoto and nearby regions? Thanks

Hi! You can combine the 6 day itinerary in this post with the Nagoya itinerary here: https://www.thepoortraveler.net/2017/05/nagoya-japan-travel-guide/#Sample_Nagoya_Itinerary

hi, want to ask for the pass for my trip. 1st day > arrive 8pm osaka > stay kyoto 2nd day > arashiyama > golden pavilion > Philosopher’s Path 3rd day > kyoto – osaka (checkout) > toei movie studio > osaka check in + hep five feris + roaming around 4th day > osaka osaka amazing pass > endo sushi > osaka aquarium + mall roaming + food trip > dotonburi food tour 5th day > osaka – kobe > kobe day tour + steakland > Hanshin Tourist Pass + Rokkosan Tourist Pass > kuromon market 6th day > osaka free > shopping and food trip > 6pm to airport osaka

that’s my plan? is it good already ? or maybe you can suggest better plan and better pass.. i still not sure using what pass for 2nd, 3rd and 5th day. TIA

hi, could you please help me to choose which plan better from my itineraries and which pass better ?

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ZNXk2aM4trdwi18K_v0Jol7Q4Cd01jRlelyMK2mR_48/edit#gid=194546077

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Kobe/Osaka to Mt. Rokko, Kitano Ijinkan & Arima Onsen Tour

This comprehensive tour offers an immersive exploration of Kobe and Osaka’s rich cultural heritage . With a flexible 10-hour duration and complimentary pickup, the tour accommodates small groups, allowing for a personalized experience. Travelers can discover the traditional charm of Mt. Rokko, Kitano Ijinkan , and Arima Onsen at their own pace, guided by the driver’s local expertise . The convenience of round-trip transportation and the option to reserve and pay later ensure a hassle-free journey . However, the true allure of this tour lies in the opportunity to explore the heart of traditional Japan, where each destination holds the promise of unveiling captivating cultural treasures.

• This private tour offers a 10-hour duration with free pickup in Kobe and Osaka, including the cruise port, for groups of up to 4 people.
• The tour provides round-trip transportation to and from your accommodation, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free travel experience.
• Guests can explore the traditional charm of destinations like Mt. Rokko, Kitano Ijinkan, and Arima Onsen at their own pace with the driver’s local knowledge.
• The tour offers flexibility to reserve and pay later, catering to a wider range of travelers, including families and groups of friends.
• Inclusions cover the private car and round-trip transportation, while entry fees, food, and personal expenses are excluded.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Kobe: Private Guided Tour
• Kansai Airport (Kix): Private One-Way Transfer To/From Kobe
• Kobe: Private Tour – Excursion to Osaka / Kyoto Possible
• Himeji and Kobe: Private Guided 1 Day Tour

Tour Duration and Pickup Details

This tour offers a duration of 10 hours and provides free pickup in Kobe and Osaka, including the cruise port.

Guests can enjoy a group size of up to 4 people and have the flexibility to pay later after reserving the tour.

The tour includes round-trip transportation to and from your accommodation, ensuring a seamless connection with your cruise itinerary.

Travelers can explore traditional Japan at their own pace, with the driver providing suggestions but not acting as a full-fledged guide.

However, keep in mind that entry fees, food, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included in the tour price.

Plus, extra fees may apply for pickups and drop-offs outside the designated free area.

Group Size and Payment Options

The tour accommodates groups of up to 4 people , providing a more intimate and personalized experience for travelers.

Guests can conveniently reserve the tour now and pay later , offering flexibility in managing their travel budget.

This small group size allows for a more tailored itinerary, catering to the specific interests and needs of the group.

Whether it’s a family getaway or a trip with close friends, the tour’s group size ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.

With the option to reserve now and pay later, guests can secure their spot without the immediate financial burden, making the tour accessible to a wider range of travelers.

Round-way Transfer and Cruise Connection

Conveniently, the tour offers round-way transfer to and from guests’ accommodation, enabling them to seamlessly connect their cruise itinerary. This hassle-free transportation service ensures a smooth and efficient travel experience, allowing guests to focus on exploring the highlights of the tour without the logistical challenges of navigating public transit or arranging their own transportation.

Discovering Traditional Japan at Your Pace

One of the highlights of this tour is the opportunity for guests to discover the traditional charm of Japan at their own pace. The private car and driver provide the flexibility for visitors to explore the iconic sights and local experiences that pique their interest, offering a personalized and immersive introduction to the country’s rich cultural heritage .

Whether you’re drawn to the serene beauty of Mt. Rokko, the historic charm of Kitano Ijinkan, or the restorative waters of Arima Onsen, this tour lets you craft an itinerary that aligns with your preferences. With the driver’s local knowledge, you’ll gain insider insights and access to hidden gems, creating a truly authentic Japanese experience tailored to your interests.

Inclusions and Exclusions of the Tour

This tour includes a private car with a basic English-speaking driver, round-trip transportation, and pickup and drop-off within the downtown area.

Guests have the flexibility to customize their itinerary, though they’ll need to contact the provider in advance.

However, the tour excludes entry fees, food and drinks, personal expenses, extra-area pickup/drop-off fees, overtime charges, and the cost of a second child seat (the first one is free).

The key inclusions and exclusions of this tour are:

• Included: Private car, round-trip transportation, downtown pickup/drop-off
• Excluded: Entry fees, food, personal expenses, extra-area fees, overtime

Guests can customize the itinerary with advance notice.

Luggage limit based on vehicle size (5-seater, 7-seater, or 10-seater).

Guests over 75 need to be accompanied by young adults.

Additional Information on Tickets and Luggage

According to the additional information , all tickets for this tour aren’t included and must be purchased in advance.

On top of that, the driver may provide suggestions but won’t act as a dedicated guide throughout the experience.

Plus, the luggage limit is based on the size of the vehicle, whether it’s a 5-seater, 7-seater, or 10-seater.

It’s also worth noting that a single baby/child seat occupies 1.5 seats on the vehicle.

Lastly, guests over 75 years old need to be accompanied by younger adults.

Accommodations for Guests Over 75 Years

Guests over 75 years old need to be accompanied by younger adults when joining this tour, as the tour itinerary and transportation may pose certain challenges for elderly travelers. The tour operator requires older guests to have a companion for their safety and comfort.

Some key considerations include:

• Navigating uneven terrain and stairs at historical sites
• Getting in and out of the private vehicle multiple times throughout the day
• Keeping up with the pace of the group during sightseeing activities
• Accessing public restrooms and amenities that may not be senior-friendly
• Communicating any special needs or mobility issues to the driver in advance

The tour’s flexibility allows for accommodations, but advance notice is required to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for senior travelers.

Customizing the Itinerary

The tour’s flexible itinerary allows guests to personalize their sightseeing experience , enabling them to explore the highlights at their own pace.

Guests can contact the tour provider in advance to customize the itinerary , ensuring they visit the attractions that most interest them. Whether it’s spending more time at the traditional Kitano Ijinkan mansions or adding a stop at a local sake brewery, the tour can be tailored to individual preferences.

This flexibility allows travelers to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Kobe and Osaka regions at a comfortable rhythm. The private car and English-speaking driver provide a seamless and convenient way to experience the tour’s highlights on your own terms.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• One Day in Kobe With Beef Dinner =Premium=
• One Day in Kobe With Beef Dinner =Standard=
• Kobe: Eat Like a Local Private & Personalized Food Tour
• KIX Airport To/From Kyoto City
• Itami Airport (Itm): Private One-Way Transfer To/From Kobe
• Kobe: Private Walking Tour With Local Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Specific Type of Vehicle for the Tour?

Yes, guests can request a specific type of vehicle, such as a 5-seater, 7-seater, or 10-seater, depending on the size of their group. The tour provider will accommodate the request if the chosen vehicle is available.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended beyond the standard 10 hours. Guests can request a longer tour and will be charged an additional fee based on the extra time required. This allows for more flexibility and a customized experience.

Can I Request a Multi-Lingual Driver Instead of an English-Only One?

The tour operator can provide a multi-lingual driver upon request, though an English-only driver is the standard option. Guests should inquire about language preferences when booking to ensure their needs are accommodated.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour in Advance?

There’s no specific discount for booking the tour in advance. However, reserving early allows you to secure your preferred date and time, and gives the provider more time to accommodate any special requests you may have.

Can I Add Extra Stops to the Itinerary for an Additional Cost?

Yes, travelers can add extra stops to the itinerary for an additional cost. The tour provider offers flexibility to customize the tour, but travelers must contact them in advance to make any changes to the standard itinerary.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• KOBE : SUSHI Making Experience and SUSHI Lunch After Lesson
• One Day Private Customized Self-Guided Tour in Kobe
• Kobe: Sake Brewery Tour With Tasting Sake
• Kobe Coastal Charm: Harborland & Scenic Views Walk
• Kobe: Uroko-no-ie & Kitano Tenman Shrine – Scenic Tour
• Osaka to Arima Hotel Transfer Service
• Tokyo: Private Luxury Car Transfer To/From Kobe. (One Way)
• Kobe Guided Tour Including Port Area and Arima Onsen Town
• Kobe: Ultimate 5 Sake Breweries Tour in a Day – Guided Tour
• Kobe Private Full Day Tour With a Culinary Guide
• Kobe Private Food Tour With Local Guide
• Kobe: Explore 3 Sake Breweries in 3 Hours – Guided Tour
• Kobe’s Harmony: Mountains, Sea, and The Serene Arima Onsen
• Kobe: Sake Brewery Tour With Tasting and Kobe Beef Nigiri
• Kyoto Private Tour From Osaka/Kobe Port With Japanese Guide

The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Kobe and Osaka’s cultural heritage , with a flexible itinerary catering to guests’ interests.

Personalized transportation, local expertise, and the option to reserve and pay later ensure a hassle-free experience .

Visitors can enjoy the traditional charm of Mt. Rokko, Kitano Ijinkan, and Arima Onsen at their own pace, making this tour an ideal choice for a seamless journey into the heart of Japan.

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Discover the Kansai Region: 7 Days Itinerary in Kyoto, Osaka, Nara and Kobe

When you travel to Japan for the first time, you will probably make a plan to visit and stay in Tokyo first. Being one of the biggest and most famous cities in the world , it is indeed a must-visit place. But there is so much more! If you are planning a long trip to Japan, we would like to suggest you the other parts too.

There are many beautiful places where you can learn more about traditions and Japanese culture in different areas of Japan. Especially, the Kansai Region (Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, and Nara) is a top choice for travelers. Around Kyoto and Osaka , there are many destinations where you can travel, even just for a day trip.

For those of you who are planning to visit Western Japan, we would like to share a global 7 days itinerary in the Kansai Region including Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, and Kobe. Please check it out! If you are interested in more detailed information per location, please read our other blogs. – A complete guide to Osaka and Kyoto

Day 1 – Welcome to Osaka!

Popular activities in osaka, popular tours in kobe, popular tours in hiroshima, day 4 – move to kyoto, popular tours in kyoto, popular tours in nara, option 2: mt. kurama, day 7 – fly out from osaka, himeji castle, miho museum, amanohashidate, asuka village, mt. koya (koyasan), naoshima island, shodoshima island, kinosaki onsen, japan wonder travel tours in kyoto.

The international airport of the Kansai region ( KIX ) in Osaka is a well-connected airport, with direct flights to cities all around the world. From the airport, you can easily access cities like Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. We recommend buying the JR Pass or Japan Rail Pass before coming to Japan. With the JR pass you can travel for free on most trains, including shinkansen, busses, and even some ferries for free! It is cheaper to order the Japan Rail Pass before coming to Japan and activate it upon arrival. You can activate the JR Pass at many places such as KIX, Osaka Station, Shin-Osaka Station, or Kyoto Station.

▶ Kansai 3-Day WIDE Area Excursion Pass [For Tourists & Expats]

Day 2 – Explore Osaka, the street food capital!

The day after your arrival, let’s explore Osaka . Osaka is often referred to as the world’s greatest food city and is an exciting city with many interesting places to see and visit. Osaka is a place where kitschy culture and sophisticated culture are mixed. Here, you can learn the depth of Japanese culture, being surrounded by amazing food and people who are very friendly and open-minded.

Discover the best of Osaka with the help of an experienced guide and truly immerse yourself in the city. You’ll have the opportunity to see all the top attractions, such as Osaka Castle, Kuromon Market, Dotonbori Street, and many more. ▶ Osaka Highlights Private Walking Tour

If you are looking for a more traditional but also trendy experience, explore the vibrant city with a kimono! Kimono Rental wargo offers a kimono rental plan for a day, you can choose the kimono you like from the various patterns and a professional staff will have you ready! ▶ Kimono Rental wargo (Osaka Store)

To get more ideas for what to do in Osaka, check out our suggested one-day itinerary below!

Day 3 – Day trip to Kobe or Hiroshima from Osaka

Option 1: kobe.

Kobe is the 6th biggest city in Japan and one of the most attractive cities in the Kansai Region. The city is famous for its breathtaking night view, and it’s often called “The Million Dollar Night View”.

Kobe City is located between the Seto Inland Sea and Rokko Mountain. In addition to the stunning night views, there are a lot of worth-a-visit places and activities during the day. We recommend the itinerary on the following link during the daytime and enjoy the view after the evening. Check out more things to do on Kobe Day Trip Guide .

Because Kobe and Osaka are very close to each other and there is a direct train even at night, you have plenty of time to enjoy the night view in Kobe after an excellent dinner (like Kobe Beef)!

To explore Kobe efficiently with limited time, how about taking a private one-day tour? With a local guide, you can visit the best highlights of the city in one day! ▶ Kobe 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour [7 Hours]

Option 2: Hiroshima

Another recommended city for a day trip from Osaka is   Hiroshima , one of the popular destinations among both Japanese and international tourists. Next to the beautiful sights, Hiroshima has a rich history that should not be forgotten. There are two famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites:   Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima Island and the Peace Memorial Dome – known as the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima City .

It takes about 1.5 hrs if you take a Shinkansen “Nozomi” or “Sakura” from Shin-Osaka Station to Hiroshima Station.

To really get the most out of your visit to Hiroshima, we recommend you discover the city with a local guide. This way you will visit not only the famous sightseeing spots, but you can also learn the deep history and culture of Hiroshima City. A great way to discover the city is also by bike! Hiroshima Private Tour [Customizable 7 Hours]

After checking out from your hotel in Osaka, you can take a train or subway to Kyoto (approx. 30 min). Leave your luggage in your hotel and start exploring the great city of Kyoto depending on the location of your hotel.

Best highlights and suggested itinerary in Kyoto: East Kyoto: Kiyomizu temple > Ninenzaka & Sannenzaka > Yasaka shrine > Gion > Fushimi Inari Shrine. West Kyoto: Bamboo Forest > Tenryu-ji Temple > Togetsu-kyo Bridge > Ryoan-ji Temple > Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion).

See more details about exploring in Kyoto:

Day 5 – 1 day highlight of West or East Kyoto

Kyoto used to be the capital city for 1,000 years and these days it is a popular place to enjoy Japanese culture and traditions, we recommend that you should stay a minimum of two days to explore Kyoto City. (Though, we think two days are still not enough!)

Would you like to explore the unique and distinctive food culture in Kyoto? Japan Wonder Travel Food and Drink Tour offers guests an authentic Kyoto food experience and a deep culture at the popular local market with a variety of snacks and dishes. See the link below for more details about the tour! ▶ Kyoto Food and Drink Tour at Nishiki Market

We also have a private tour which can be customized as you want. Friendly English-speaking guide shows you around the places telling you the stories behind each place. ▶ Kyoto Private Full-Day Walking Tour [Customizable]

Day 6 – Day trip to Nara or Mt. Kurama from Kyoto

Option 1: Nara

If you prefer nature and history to city and modern life, you should go to Nara , the ancient capital of Japan. In fact, Nara is older than Kyoto and there are unique traditions and culture as well as a number of historical monuments. For example, wild deer are sacred in Nara. Also, there are many World Heritage Sites. From Kyoto Station, there is a direct train to Nara Station and which takes about 50 min by train. For more details, check the link below:

To learn the deep history and culture in Nara, it’s highly recommended to take a private guided tour! You can go through the best highlights of Nara including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one day with a local expert! Check the link below for more details: ▶ Nara Best Spots 8h Private Tour with Licensed Guide

Mt. Kurama is a spiritual mountain and a good hiking spot north of the center of Kyoto, taking you from Kurama to Kibune or the other way around. You can go there by bus or train and it takes about 70 min. from Gion Shijo Station. During the hike trekking, you will go through so many temples and shrines like the Kifune Shrine. When you end in Kurama, there is an onsen to relax. Also, if you prefer, you can head to Kibune area which is known for the beautiful riverside view from the mountain.

The regional airport KIX is easy to access from Kyoto Station. There is a direct limited express train named “Haruka” to KIX and it takes about 70 mins. If you have time, climb Kyoto Tower to say “Sayonara” (goodbye) to Kyoto City before leaving. Or spend time in Rinku Park right next to the airport.

Other options for day trip from Kyoto or Osaka

The followings are the options if you have more days.

Himeji Castle is the first place which was registered as UNESCO World Heritage Site. The nickname is “White Heron Castle” due to the brilliant white walls. The specialty of Himeji Castle is not only beauty. It was built as a fortress to protect Kyoto and Osaka from samurai warriors who come from the far west side of Japan. That’s why you could find a lot of functions for war here.

▶ Himeji Half-Day Private Tour with Government-Licensed Guide It’s totally worth it to take a guided tour there to learn more historical facts about the castle and the surrounding area.

From Kyoto or Osaka, you can take a JR train. From Kyoto Station, we recommend take a bullet train (Shinkansen). It takes about 80 min. From Osaka Station, it takes about 80 min by either local train or bullet train.

Miho Museum is one of the most unique museums in Japan and it is located in Shiga prefecture , next to Kyoto prefecture. The feature is their wide-range collections and their concept “Promoting Beauty, Peace and Joy Through Art”. The collection contains about 3,000 artworks from Japan and the ancient orient. Also, the combination of their architecture and surrounding nature is breathtaking.

Access from Kyoto and for more details;

If you head to the far north of Kyoto prefecture, there is a miracle spot created by magnificent nature.  Amanohashidate means the bridge to heaven and is known as three of the most scenic spots in Japan. Other spots are Matsushima which is very close to Sendai city and Miyajima in Hiroshima prefecture. Here you can find amazing seafood, white sand beaches and pine‐covered seashores. It takes approx. 2 hours by JR limited express train “Hashidate” from Kyoto Station.

Recommended tour: Amanohashidate round trip e-ride tour Enjoy the beautiful scenery around Amanohashidate while cycling with an electronic bicycle!

The birthplace and the first capital of Japan is Asuka , south of Nara City. Here the first emperors of Japan established the capital cities and so you can see the country’s oldest shrines, temples, tombs, and older constructions. There is also a beautiful rice terrace. You can visit there from Kyoto, Osaka or Nara as a day trip. It is highly recommended if you like cycling because Asuka is a very good place to discover by bicycle.

It’s not in the Kansai region, but you can visit Kanazawa , the scenic city with the greatest Japanese garden. From Kyoto Station, it takes about 2 hours to Kanazawa Station by JR Limited Express “Thunderbird”. The most famous destination is Kenrokuen Garden , but there are a lot more places to visit, including traditional Samurai houses, a fancy seafood market, a castle, and prestigious museums. Convenient for the 1-day trip as most sites are within walking distance from Kanazawa Station. Check out our private tour in Kanazawa to enjoy the town to the fullest! We will take you to the highlights of Kanazawa including Omicho Market, Higashi Chaya-Gai District, Kenrokuen Garden, and Nagamachi Old Samurai Residential House.

Other options for 2 days trip from Kyoto or Osaka

If you have an interest in experiencing trekking as a pilgrimage, the best destination is Koyasan or Mt. Koya . The sacred place of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. Accessing Koyasan is not so simple and you need to calculate about 3 hours to go there from Osaka, but it’s worth a visit. Due to the special experience of staying in temple lodging, known as shukubo , we strongly recommend having at least one night. You can get a taste of a monk’s lifestyle, eat traditional Buddhist cuisine ( shojin-ryori ), and attend the morning prayers.

You can make a reservation for temple lodging from the link below:

Recommended tour: Mt. Koya Sacred Full-Day Private Tour (Osaka departure) with Licensed Guide The guide will pick you up at Osaka and take you on a trip to Mt. Koya. Traveling with a guide makes it much easier to travel to the sacred mountain and allows you to discover and learn more about the area and historical sites.

Naoshima Island is a very small island with a 3,000 population, but now called “The sanctuary of contemporary art”. This small island is located in the Seto Inland Sea known as the Japanese Aegean. The feature of Naoshima is the harmony of natural beauty, Tadao Ando’s architecture, and Site-specific arts. Since most of the museums are based on the concept to feel and forget time, it is recommended to stay here. If you have interest to visit there and stay there, see the link below.

Access:  Mainland to Naoshima Island

Recommended tour: Naoshima Art Island Guided Tour It’s so much better to explore Naoshima with a professional guide as navigating through the island using limited transportation effectively and seeing everything on your list.

Shodoshima is another island in the Seto Inland sea. It is well-known for olive plantations, soy sauce production, and somen noodles . There are amazing white sand beaches, Olive Park, and a local small village. The most famous place is Angel Road, a sandbank that appears only twice a day due to the tide. If you like to relax in the beautiful ocean landscape, you should go here.

Shodoshima Island Ferry Tour from Kobe This tour includes a ferry ride from Kobe to Shodoshima and a private taxi to take around the island. The English guide is not available but the driver will communicate with you with a language translator.

If you really want to take a very good onsen, Kinosaki Onsen makes your dream come true. This pleasant town, built along a willow-lined river, is one of the top onsen destinations in Japan. There are 7 different onsens you can enjoy and each onsen has a long history and its own hot spring quality. It is fun to explore the town and find that onsen in the evening, after a long day of exploring. You can go there about 2 and a half hours from Kyoto Station by JR train.

This is our suggested 7 days itinerary in Osaka and Kyoto to enjoy Kansai Region. But to fully enjoy this great area, 7 days are far from enough. Since there are a lot of roots in Japanese culture, the more days you spend, the more you learn about Japan! Along with your visit, we would also recommend you take guided tours to make the most out of your stay!

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Happy traveling!

When you are visiting Kyoto and you need some help organizing your trip, you came to the right place. We’re happy to help you make your trip to Kyoto the best trip ever. We can advise you on where to go or even better, show you around with a local, English speaking guide. Let us help you create safe, comfortable, and unforgettable memories in Kyoto!

▶ Kyoto 8h Private Custom Highlight Tour with Licensed Guide On this full-day private tour of Kyoto, you will be able to see the highlights of Kyoto in just one day and at the same time develop a deeper understanding of both the culture of the area and Japan as a whole.

▶ Kyoto Arashiyama Best Spots 4h Private Tour with Licensed Guide If you only have a day or two in Kyoto, we offer a half-day tour combined with must-visit spots in one of the most popular areas in Kyoto – Arashiyama. A knowledgeable bilingual guide will make sure that you can get the full experience in just a half-day!

▶ Explore Nishiki Market: Food & Culture Walk If you’re looking to learn more about the culture and the local cuisine of Kyoto, this is the perfect tour for you! Take part in this Kyoto food and drink tour and explore the 400-year-old market and the famous surrounding areas.

▶ Kimono Experience Kyoto is the best city to explore in kimono, Japanese traditional clothing. You can choose the one you like the most from several patterns and colors at the rental shop. In Kyoto, two locations are both accessible from the main tourist attractions which makes it easy to try it on and explore the city for a day!

My wife and I will be traveling in Japan from nov 7 to dec 24. We will be in Tokyo 4 days then Kyoto for 7 days. We would be interested fromKyoto to take tour toNara,Osaka, Himeji, Okayama,Naoshima, Hiroshima, andMiajima. In that 8 day period we would then go back to Tokyo and take day trips for the rest of our tour. We will have rail passes for 21 days. Can you suggest a tour for the 8 days I have mentioned with prices tours and some meals perhaps. Thank you, Richard Schiller [email protected]

Thanks for your comment. Also, sorry for being late to reply. Your travel plan is wonderful.

We sent email to your address.

So, please check it if you still have an interest in our service.

My girlfriend and I will be travelling to Japan on the 23rd September till 30th September. The main highlight of the trip is basically Osaka and Kyoto with all of its offerings. Probably 1 or 2 nights in Hiroshima to see the war museum would be ideal for me. My girlfriend love city life so going to outskirt or village would not be her sort of things. We are both foodies so it would be great if the itinerary revolves around places to eat. Also, do we need JR pass?

Thank you. Eugene Rayan [email protected]

Hello Eugene Rayan-san,

If you will visit only Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima and outskirt near each city, you don’t need to get JR pass.

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask us.

Hi, My name is Roslan Ahmad from Kuala Lumpur Malaysia.

Me and family (total 6 pax) planning to visit Osaka + Kyoto+ Nara. This is our first visit to Kansai area and wanted to explore the beauties. Can you suggest a plan trip inclusive recommended hotel to me? We intent to visit USJ as well (getting a ticket from Klook). Do we required to purchase JR Pass for 6 of us ( 4 adults and 2 kids). Please advice ya. * we also prefers to view the autumn leaves changing colors. we saw it in TV in some location in NARA. Our trip is in November 22 to November 29, 2019.

Hi, am planning to spend about 7 days in Japan, thinking of having osaka as my base and then travelling out for day trips or maybe overnight (2 day 1 night trips). Right now, I am thinking of: – Osaka (1 day) – Nara day trip (1 day) – Kobe day trip (1 day) – Hiroshima/Miyajima day trip (1 day) – Kyoto overnight trip (2 days 1 night) – MAYBE a Kanazawa or Naoshima day trip (1 day)

Having difficulty figuring out whats the best way of getting around, am considering the Kansai Thru pass, Amazing Osaka pass or the JR Kansai Area pass. What would you recommend? Also, do you have any suggestions for other day trip destinations that are pretty unique and maybe underrated? Would really appreciate your help!!

As for pass, it’s depend on how often you will take train! How about Hida or Koyasan where are already famous? I also recommend Teshima next to Naoshima.

Hello, it’s my first time to Japan but instead of visiting Tokyo , I’m more interested in visiting the Kansai region first. I’m planning to get Kintetsu rail pass, as I plan to go Nagoya. Do you have any itinerary or suggestion for like Osaka + Kyoto + Nara/Kobe + Nagoya ? And maybe Mie/Ise in between.

Hi we’ve family of 5 visiting Osaka and region for 5 days and then 2 children leaving for home with 3 person remaining to explore for 6 more days. Would you have any suggestions On itinerary? Many tks

Hello John-san, Thank you for your inquiry. Is it first time for you in Japan? Which area have you been to? It depends on where we could recommend it. If it’s the first time for you, definitely have to see around Tokyo. If it’s second or more, how about exploring middle part of Japan, Gifu area? (Kanazawa, Takayama and Shirakawago area)? Hope you could enjoy Japan fully!!

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Shore Excursion: Day Trip To Osaka From Kobe Port

• Kobe , Osaka , Tour Reviews

Set out on a thrilling shore excursion, ‘Day Trip To Osaka From Kobe Port’, where travelers are transported from Kobe Port to the lively city of Osaka. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore Osaka’s rich cultural heritage and modern attractions.

With an overall rating of 5.0 based on reviews from Viator and Tripadvisor, this excursion has been highly praised by previous participants. The pricing for this excursion starts at $214.46 and varies based on group size. Travelers can expect clear instructions and a seamless experience, ensuring a memorable day trip.

Discover the top attractions, dining, shopping opportunities, and recommended itineraries for a day trip to Osaka. Don’t miss out on this exciting adventure!

Great News! You can reserve your spot for free with Viator. You can easliy cancel any time up to 1 day before without paying anything.

Quick Takeaways

• Osaka is a vibrant city in Japan known for its lively atmosphere and rich cultural heritage.
• Osaka Castle and Dotonbori are must-see attractions in the city.
• Osaka is famous for its delicious street food , such as takoyaki and okonomiyaki.
• Transportation options from Kobe Port to Osaka include public transportation, private cars , and shuttle services.

Not for you? Here's a few more great tours and experiences nearby.

• Romantic Tour In Kobe
• Osaka 8 Hr Tour With Licensed Guide and Vehicle From Kobe
• Private Kobe Tour With Licensed Guide and Vehicle
• Private & Custom KOBE Day Tour by Toyota Coaster/Microbus (Max 27 Pax)

Overview of Osaka

Osaka is a vibrant city in Japan known for its lively atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. There are numerous places to visit in Osaka that showcase the city’s unique charm and history.

One must-see attraction is Osaka Castle, a magnificent structure that offers panoramic views of the city.

Another popular spot is Dotonbori , a bustling street filled with neon lights, restaurants , and shops , where visitors can experience the vibrant nightlife and indulge in the local cuisine .

Speaking of which, Osaka is famous for its delicious street food , such as takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes). The city also boasts a thriving food scene with a wide range of restaurants serving traditional Japanese dishes and international cuisine.

Whether it’s exploring historical landmarks or sampling mouthwatering dishes, Osaka offers a memorable experience for all.

Transportation Options From Kobe Port to Osaka

When traveling from Kobe Port to Osaka, visitors have a variety of transportation options. Here are three options to consider:

• Public Transportation: Kobe Port offers convenient access to public transportation options such as trains and buses. Visitors can take a train from Kobe Port Terminal to Osaka Station, which is a major transportation hub in Osaka. From there, they can easily explore the city using the extensive subway and bus network.
• Private Car : Another option is to hire a private car or taxi for transportation from Kobe Port to Osaka. This option offers flexibility and convenience, allowing visitors to customize their itinerary and travel at their own pace. It’s ideal for those who prefer a more personalized and comfortable transportation experience.
• Shuttle Service: Some cruise lines and tour operators offer shuttle services from Kobe Port to Osaka. These shuttle services provide a convenient and hassle-free way to travel between the two destinations. They often have designated pick-up and drop-off points, making it easy for visitors to navigate their way in Osaka.

Whether visitors choose public transportation, a private car , or a shuttle service, there are plenty of transportation options available to explore Osaka from Kobe Port.

Top Attractions to Visit in Osaka

One of the top attractions to visit in Osaka is the famous Osaka Castle. This iconic landmark dates back to the 16th century and offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s rich history. With its stunning architecture and beautiful surrounding gardens, Osaka Castle is a must-visit for travelers.

After exploring the castle, visitors can indulge in some of the city’s best local cuisine . Osaka is known for its vibrant food scene, offering everything from street food to high-end dining experiences . Whether it’s trying takoyaki (octopus balls) at a local food stall or enjoying a traditional kaiseki meal, Osaka has something to satisfy every palate.

For those looking to stay overnight, there are plenty of best hotels in Osaka that cater to different budgets and preferences.

Recommended Itinerary for a Day Trip to Osaka

Visitors can start their day trip to Osaka from Kobe Port by setting out on a scenic ferry ride across the harbor. Once in Osaka, they can embark on a sightseeing adventure that showcases the city’s vibrant culture and delicious food experiences. The recommended itinerary for a day trip to Osaka includes:

• Explore Dotonbori: This bustling street is a must-visit for its neon lights, lively atmosphere, and mouthwatering street food. Visitors can indulge in local delicacies like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes).
• Visit Osaka Castle: This iconic landmark is a symbol of the city’s rich history. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, admire the beautiful architecture, and learn about the fascinating samurai era.
• Experience Shinsekai: This nostalgic neighborhood is known for its retro charm and delicious kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers). Visitors can take a stroll down the vibrant streets, try some local street food, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

With this itinerary, visitors can make the most of their day trip to Osaka, seeing the city’s vibrant sights and flavors.

Dining and Shopping Opportunities in Osaka

After exploring the vibrant sights and flavors of Osaka, visitors can discover a stack of dining and shopping opportunities in the city.

Osaka is renowned for its diverse and delicious dining experiences . From traditional Japanese cuisine to international fare, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Visitors can indulge in mouthwatering sushi, savor the flavors of Okonomiyaki (a savory pancake), or try the local specialty of Takoyaki (octopus balls).

For those looking to shop till they drop, Osaka offers a range of shopping districts to explore. Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori are popular areas known for their trendy boutiques, department stores , and street markets. Namba is another shopping district that boasts a mix of luxury brands, local shops , and bargain stores.

With its diverse culinary scene and bustling shopping districts , Osaka provides visitors with a truly memorable experience.

Tips for a Smooth Day Trip From Kobe Port to Osaka

To ensure a smooth day trip from Kobe Port to Osaka, it’s important to plan ahead and make necessary arrangements. Here are some tips to help make your journey hassle-free:

• Take a direct train from Kobe Port to Osaka. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and offers scenic views along the way.
• Consider hiring a private car or taxi for a more convenient and personalized experience.
• Join a guided tour that includes transportation from Kobe Port to Osaka, allowing you to sit back and relax while someone else takes care of the logistics.
• Visit Osaka Castle, a magnificent historical landmark with beautiful gardens.
• Explore Dotonbori, a bustling street known for its vibrant nightlife, delicious street food, and iconic neon signs.
• Take a stroll through the picturesque Shinsekai district, known for its nostalgic atmosphere and delicious local cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time to Visit Osaka for a Day Trip From Kobe Port?

The best time to visit Osaka for a day trip from Kobe Port would be during the cherry blossom season in spring or during fall when the weather is pleasant. It is recommended to visit popular attractions like Osaka Castle, Dotonbori, and Universal Studios Japan. A suggested itinerary would include exploring the historical sites, enjoying local cuisine , and experiencing the vibrant nightlife.

Are There Any Restrictions on What Can Be Brought Into Osaka From Kobe Port?

There are customs regulations in place for goods brought into Osaka from Kobe Port. Restrictions on imports may vary depending on the type of goods and their compliance with local laws and regulations.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Get Around Osaka During My Day Trip?

Using public transportation in Osaka during a day trip has its pros and cons. Pros include convenience and cost-effectiveness, while cons include the potential for crowded trains and the need to navigate unfamiliar routes.

Are There Any Specific Cultural Customs or Etiquette I Should Be Aware of When Visiting Osaka?

When visiting Osaka, it is important to be aware of Japanese greetings , local customs , and manners. Additionally , it is helpful to familiarize yourself with traditional food and dining etiquette to show respect to the culture.

Is It Necessary to Book Tickets in Advance for Attractions in Osaka?

It is recommended to book tickets in advance for popular attractions in Osaka. The booking process can be done online or through tour operators. This ensures availability and saves time on the day of the visit.

To sum it up, the day trip to Osaka from Kobe Port offers travelers an exciting opportunity to explore the vibrant city’s rich cultural heritage and modern attractions. With a high overall rating of 5.0 and positive reviews, this excursion promises a seamless and enjoyable experience.

From the accessible Viator Help Center to clear instructions provided for travelers, everything is designed to ensure a smooth journey. With a starting price of $214.46, this day trip is a great option for those looking to make the most of their time in Kobe.

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Kobe (�_��, Kōbe) is the capital of Hyogo Prefecture and one of Japan's ten largest cities . Located between the sea and the Rokko mountain range, Kobe is also considered one of Japan's most attractive cities.

Kobe has been an important port city for many centuries. Its port was among the first to be opened to foreign trade in the 19th century alongside the ports of Yokohama , Nagasaki , Hakodate and Niigata.

In 1995, Kobe was hit by the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake , which killed over 5000 people and destroyed tens of thousands of buildings. Today the city is completely rebuilt, and few signs of the terrible event remain.

Top attractions in Kobe

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Questions? Ask in our forum .

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• Awaji Island
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• What Is New in Awaji

Complete Awaji Island Access Guide: Detailed Transportation Routes from Osaka, Kobe, and Tokyo

• Pin it

Awaji Island, often considered one of Japan’s best-kept secrets, is known for its historical significance, breathtaking landscapes, and delectable cuisine. Despite its many attractions, many travelers find themselves uncertain about the best ways to get there. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about transportation options accessing Awaji Island from various locations like Osaka, Kobe, and Tokyo.  

Table of Contents

Getting there is simple! Access to Awaji Island

Direct bus from sannomiya to popular attractions on awaji island, bus from sannomiya to popular attractions on awaji island (through awaji ic), free shuttle bus service going around awaji island’s popular attractions, from osaka (travel time: about 1 hour from jr osaka station), from kobe airport (travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes), from tokyo (travel time: approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes), awaji island: stunning scenery, gourmet delights, and exciting activities.

Awaji Island, a popular tourist spot, is conveniently located just 30 minutes from Kobe and 60 minutes from Osaka. While it may seem tricky to reach due to its island location, getting there is surprisingly straightforward.

Most routes pass through Sannomiya, where you can easily hop on an express bus bound for Awaji Island. If you’re planning a visit, this guide will provide all the essential details to make your journey smooth and hassle-free.

From Sannomiya (Kobe) (travel time: about 30 minutes)

When traveling to Awaji Island from major cities, Sannomiya often serves as a key transit point. To ensure a smooth trip, it’s important first to understand how to navigate from Sannomiya to Awaji Island. Let’s dive into the details so you can master this route with ease!

To get from Sannomiya to Awaji Island, you have the option of a car or bus. Suppose you are traveling by bus to Awaji Island’s tourist sites. In that case, the journey takes around 30 minutes and there are two main options departing from Sannomiya Bus Terminal (Mint Kobe) or Shinki Bus Sannomiya Bus Terminal. Both terminals offer routes to Awaji IC, the gateway to the island’s tourist attractions.

Since the terminals are located close to one another, it’s a good idea to check the bus schedules for both in advance. This will help you plan your trip more efficiently and ensure a seamless journey to Awaji Island.

Shinki Kobe Sannomiya Bus Terminal

Sannomiya Bus Terminal (Mint Kobe)

Awaji Island –> Popular Facilities

For those looking to explore Awaji Island’s top attractions, the Awaji Resort Bus’s Kita-Awaji Nishi-Kaigan Line comes highly recommended. This direct bus service offers convenient access to major spots like Zenbo Seinei, the anime-themed park Nijigen no Mori, and the HELLO KITTY facilities, making it an ideal option for hassle-free sightseeing.

To learn more about the bus schedule for direct routes to Awaji Island’s popular attractions, check the link below!

The Easy Way to Reach Japan’s Island Paradise

Sannomiya –> Awaji Interchange (IC) –> Popular Facilities

If you’re not able to use the Kita-Awaji Nishi-Kaigan Line due to schedule constraints, taking a bus to Awaji IC (Awaji Interchange) is a suitable alternative. From Awaji IC, you can then transfer to a free shuttle bus that conveniently transports you to the popular attractions across Awaji Island. Check the section below for access from Awaji IC!

If you’re arriving at Awaji IC or need to transfer between popular facilities on the island, the free shuttle bus offers a convenient and efficient solution.

Access – Free Shuttle Bus

Now that you’re familiar with the route from Sannomiya to Awaji Island, let’s explore how to travel from major cities like Tokyo or Osaka to Awaji Island via Sannomiya. Here are the details you need to make your journey smooth and straightforward!

Osaka Namba/Umeda/KIX –> Sannomiya –> Awaji Island (direct or indirect)

In Osaka, you have three major departure points for reaching Awaji Island: Namba, Umeda, and Kansai International Airport (KIX).

From Namba: Take the Hanshin Namba Line from Osaka-Namba Station (Platform 3) to Kobe-Sannomiya Station.

From Umeda: Board the JR Special Rapid train on the Kobe Line from JR Osaka Station, which will take you directly to JR Sannomiya Station.

From KIX: Opt for the express bus from Kansai International Airport to Sannomiya Station. The fare is 2,200 yen for a direct one-way trip.

Once you arrive at Sannomiya, refer to the guide above (“From Sannomiya (Kobe)”) for easy access to Awaji Island.

Kobe Airport –> Sannomiya –> Awajishima (direct or via Awaji IC)

If you arrive at Kobe Airport, you can take the Portliner to Kobe-Sannomiya Station, with a fare of 340 yen. Once you reach Sannomiya, follow the guide above (“From Sannomiya (Kobe)”) to continue your journey to Awaji Island.

Tokyo –> Shin-Kobe –> Sannomiya –> Awaji Island (direct or indirect) OR, Tokyo –> Shin-Kobe –> Awaji IC –> Popular Facilities

Traveling from Tokyo to Awaji Island might seem daunting, but it’s quite manageable. Here’s how you can make the journey.

By Plane: If you arrive at Kobe Airport or Kansai International Airport (KIX), you can follow the steps outlined in the guide above to reach Awaji Island.

By Shinkansen: If you prefer taking the Shinkansen, it costs around 14,000 yen and will take you to Shin-Kobe Station. From there, you can catch a direct bus to Awaji IC. Once you arrive at Awaji IC, transfer to the free shuttle bus that covers Awaji Island’s popular attractions.

Awaji Island is a natural paradise, showcasing amazing landscapes. From vibrant flower fields and beaches to lush forests and rolling green mountains, the island offers many beautiful things. Along its coastline, you can enjoy stunning views, particularly during the enchanting sunsets that cast the sky in brilliant shades of pink and orange.

It is also often referred to as the “Land of Food,” has a rich history of supplying the royal court with its exceptional produce. Having a 100% self-sufficiency rate in food production and a deep-rooted agricultural tradition, the island has been a dependable source of high-quality ingredients for centuries.

Steeped in tradition yet rapidly evolving through regional revitalization efforts, Awaji Island is a fascinating blend of the old and the new. While it continues to honor its rich agricultural heritage, the island has also many modern attractions.

From anime-themed attractions to Hello Kitty experiences and delicious food, Awaji Island is increasingly appealing to younger generations. Few places in Japan manage to harmoniously blend tradition with modernity as effortlessly as Awaji Island.

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