Tour A: Full-Day Kobe City Sightseeing
▼ Kobe Harbor & Mosaic Ferris Wheel (Approx. 2.5 hours – includes free time and lunch on your own)
Kobe Harbor is one of Japan's major commercial ports and has been an international settlement since the Meiji era, brimming with exotic charm. The waterfront area is known for its modern architectural designs and dazzling night lights. Signature landmarks include the Kobe Port Tower, the Maritime Museum, and the Mosaic Ferris Wheel.
Take a relaxing stroll along the seaside promenade, enjoy the sea breeze, and spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the area. The bright red Mosaic Ferris Wheel is one of the harbor's most recognizable icons. It sits on the site of a former mini amusement park called Mosaic Garden, hence its name.
Admission: JPY ¥800/guest (free for children under 3; at your own expense)
Operating hours: 10:00 am– 22:00 pm (ticket sales end 15 minutes before closing)
Recommended Dish: Kobe Beef
Kobe beef is considered one of the most delicious wagyu varieties in the world, renowned for its melt-in-your-mouth texture. Originating from Tajima in Hyogo Prefecture—one of the birthplaces of wagyu—Kobe beef must meet strict standards. Cattle must be born and raised in Hyogo and have purebred Tajima lineage. Every calf is issued a certificate by the government detailing its pedigree and nose print.
▼ Kitano Ijinkan Street (Approx. 1 hour – free time)
During the Meiji and Taisho periods, many Western-style buildings were constructed in Kobe. A number of them have been preserved in the Kitano area of Chuo Ward. From Yamamoto-dori 1-chome to 3-chome, the area is known as Kitano Ijinkan Street, once home to foreign merchants and diplomats.
A walk uphill along Kitano-dori or Ijinkan-dori offers a charming, European-like atmosphere—perfect for a scenic stroll.
Highlight: Starbucks Kitano Ijinkan Concept Store – This was Japan's first Starbucks in a heritage building. Originally built in 1907 as a private residence for an American, it was later purchased by a German baker and eventually transformed into a Starbucks in 2009. The ground floor serves coffee while the second floor displays historical exhibits.
Recommended Attractions (Admission at your own expense):
【Weathercock House (Kazamidori-no-Yakata)】
A symbol of Kitano Ijinkan and a nationally recognized Important Cultural Property. The home once belonged to German merchant Gottfried Thomas. Featuring red brick walls and a pointed wooden spire, it stands out among the Western houses. The building's refined and vibrant design includes Art Nouveau elements from the early 20th century. The name comes from the iron weathercock mounted on the rooftop.
【Moegi House (Moegi-no-Yakata)】
Once the private residence of Hunter Sharp, the American Consul General in the Meiji era, this Western-style house was named after its light green exterior (moegi means "light green" in Japanese). Each room is painted in a different color and has a uniquely designed fireplace, showcasing intricate craftsmanship. Designated as an Important Cultural Property, the second floor offers panoramic views of Kobe city.
【Uroko House (Uroko-no-Ie, "House of Scales")】
The first ijinkan in Kobe to open to the public. It's named after its natural slate-covered exterior that resembles fish scales. Uroko House is designated as a Tangible Cultural Property and one of the 100 notable residences of Hyogo. The on-site art gallery features an impressive permanent collection of modern and European masterpieces, including works by Troyon (Barbizon School), Matisse, Utrillo, and Buffet.
▼ Arima Onsen
Arima Onsen is one of Japan's three oldest and most prestigious hot spring towns, with a history dating back over a thousand years. Thanks to its favorable geographical location, it has long been loved by locals and travelers alike.
The charming onsen town is lined with traditional inns, souvenir shops, ancient temples, and shrines, with sulfurous steam drifting through the streets. Wandering through Arima's atmospheric alleys feels like stepping into a hidden world, steeped in Japan's rich cultural and historical heritage. Hot steam rising from vents along the streets marks the presence of various natural hot springs. You'll also find plenty of delicious local foods to try while exploring this thriving town.
Of course, a trip to Arima wouldn't be complete without enjoying the hot springs. Popular public bathhouses include Kin no Yu (Gold Spring) and Gin no Yu (Silver Spring), as well as larger themed bathhouses offering a variety of soaking experiences.
Recommended Day-Use Onsen: Taiko-no-Yu (If Taiko-no-Yu is closed, alternatives like Kin no Yu or Gin no Yu may be visited.)
【Taiko-no-Yu】
Address: 292-2 Ikenojiri, Arimacho, Kita Ward, Kobe City
This expansive 7,000 sqm hot spring theme park is one of the largest in Arima. It offers access to Arima's three famous springs: Kin-sen (gold spring), Gin-sen (silver spring), and carbonated spring, allowing guests to enjoy a full range of relaxing hot spring experiences.
▼ Mount Rokko Night View (Approx. 1.5 hours)
Located near Kobe, Mount Rokko is part of the Setonaikai National Park and is a top destination for enjoying panoramic night views. It’s often ranked among the top three nightscapes in Japan.
Due to the winding mountain roads, guests are encouraged to take the Rokko Cable Car (fare not included) rather than a bus to avoid motion sickness and enjoy a unique ascent experience.
Operating hours: 7:10 am – 9:10 pm
Closed days: None
【Rokko Tenrandai Observatory】
Located next to the Rokko Cable Sanjo Station, this observatory was named by the Showa Emperor in 1981 and is one of the top three night view spots on Mount Rokko. (Open year-round, free admission)
The Kobe night view was first referred to as a "million-dollar night view"in 1953, based on the estimated cost of electricity visible from Mount Rokko totaling over one million dollars per month (at the time, USD 1 = JPY 360). By 2005, the daily cost of electricity seen from the mountain had exceeded ten million dollars (at USD 1 = JPY 110), giving rise to the nickname: "The 10-Million Dollar Night View."
From the observatory, you can enjoy sweeping vistas stretching from Wakayama to the Akashi Strait.
Note: During the "Kobe Rokko MEETS ART 2025 beyond" event (Aug 23–Nov 30), admission to Rokko Tenrandai Observatory is charged. Guests pay on their own.
Tour ends with drop-off at Shinsaibashi/Dotonbori area or your hotel in Osaka city.
Return time is for reference only and may vary depending on traffic conditions or the day's schedule.
Tour B / C: Universal Studios Japan Day Tour (Admission Ticket Only)
Spend an unforgettable day at Universal Studios Japan (USJ) – a world-class theme park based on popular Hollywood movies. With thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and dazzling live shows, you'll feel like you've stepped into your favorite film scenes.
One of the park's top highlights is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which has become a major reason for USJ's skyrocketing popularity. The area offers a stunningly accurate recreation of the original story setting, complete with top-tier rides, themed performances in front of Hogwarts Castle, and exclusive Harry Potter merchandise that fans won't want to miss.
Note: This tour includes only the standard admission ticket.
Optional Upgrade: Round-trip transportation service to/from USJ is available – please contact us for details!
