When planning a trip to Japan’s Kansai region, don’t just stop at the big names—Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. Just west of Osaka, Kobe is a hugely popular destination too! If you’re mapping out your Kobe itinerary and have questions about getting around, check out Trip.com’s well-organized Kobe transportation guide to make your journey even smoother.
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Kobe Transportation: Subways, Passes & Airport Access
While Kobe may be a relatively compact city, its public transportation network is surprisingly rich and intricate. Beyond the Kobe Municipal Subway and JR trains, you’ll also find private lines like Hanshin Electric Railway and Hankyu Railway, plus a bus network that crisscrosses the city. With so many ways to get around, choosing the right transit pass becomes one of the most important steps in planning your Kobe adventure.
The most practical tickets include transit IC cards like ICOCA, which work across a wide range of public transportation and are the most convenient choice for most travelers. If your itinerary includes Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara or other nearby cities, consider adding Kansai area passes or one-day passes offered by various railway and bus companies to save on transportation costs.
Kobe Discount Transit Tickets & Passes
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172476 booked
Getting Around Kobe: Airport to Downtown
Although most travelers fly into Kansai International Airport and then take a train or bus to Kobe, the city also has its own Kobe Airport. Here are the most popular ways to reach downtown Kobe directly from Kobe Airport.
Transportation | Description | Travel Time | Tips |
Monorail (Kobe New Transit Port Liner) | Direct connection to Sannomiya Station; easy transfer to Kobe | ~20 mins | Frequent departures; convenient and fuss-free for first-time travelers |
Airport Bus | Multiple routes to downtown Kobe with various destination options | Varies by route | Some buses cannot accommodate large luggage; check baggage policy when choosing a company |
Taxi | Direct ride to downtown Kobe | ~20 mins | More expensive but very convenient; ideal for seniors, kids, or groups sharing the fare |
Rental Car | Pick-up available at Kobe Airport; flexible for exploring nearby attractions | Varies | Offers freedom and flexibility; remember to consider parking availability and fees |
Kobe Transportation: Kobe Municipal Subway
The Kobe Municipal Subway is one of the city’s primary ways to get around, with two lines—the Seishin-Yamate Line and the Kaigan Line—that cover the city center, including Sannomiya, Shin-Kobe, and Motomachi.
The signage inside Kobe subway stations is clear, and you can tap in and out with the ICOCA card—making it very friendly for international visitors. Especially if your plans focus on city highlights like the Kitano Ijinkan, Motomachi Shopping Street, the harbor area, and more, the Kobe Municipal Subway is all you need for easy sightseeing.
Kobe Transportation: Private Rail Lines
Getting around Kobe is a breeze thanks to private railways like Hankyu Railway, Hanshin Railway, and Sanyo Electric Railway—essential links to the surrounding cities. Hop on Hankyu for easy trips to Minoh and Kyoto; ride Hanshin to Osaka’s Umeda and Namba—and even all the way to Nara. Heading west? Sanyo connects Kobe with Akashi and Himeji.
These rail lines run frequently and cover an extensive network, making them the most convenient way to reach attractions in the cities surrounding Kobe.
Kobe Transportation: JR West
JR West is a key part of getting around Kobe, and the JR Kobe Line connects Osaka, Kyoto, and Himeji. If you’re traveling with a JR Pass, riding JR to and from Kobe is a great value. Plus, JR Sannomiya Station is well connected to other transport networks, so you can easily transfer to the Kobe subway, other private rail lines, or city buses.
JR West Special Offers
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Kobe Transportation: Kobe Buses
Kobe’s city bus network is a great way to reach spots the subway and trains don’t cover—think residential neighborhoods, the port, and steep, hilly areas like the Kitano district. Kobe also runs sightseeing buses with two routes: one focusing on city attractions and another on harbor highlights, making them perfect for day-trippers.
Kobe Transportation: Car Rentals in Kobe
If your itinerary includes Mount Rokko, Awaji Island, or attractions in Kobe’s suburbs, renting a car is the most flexible way to get around. You’ll have the freedom to explore lesser-known spots at your own pace, and it’s easy to pick up a vehicle either at Kobe Airport or in the city center. Keep in mind that Japan uses right-hand-drive vehicles and traffic flows on the left side of the road, which may be different from what you’re used to—so drive carefully. When planning, it’s also wise to check in advance whether there’s parking near each attraction.
Kobe car rental recommendations
Small car
Honda Fit
From
US$49.22/day
Minivan
Toyota Sienta
From
US$75.18/day
Getting Around Kobe: Top 5 Attractions
Kobe Attraction #1: Kobe Kitano Ijinkan
The Kitano Ijinkan district preserves many Western-style buildings, giving visitors a deep sense of Kobe’s unique charm from its early days as an international port city.
Reviews of Kobe Kitano Ijinkan
4.6/5
75 reviews
5/5
Although I only visited Meng Huang's building, I could already feel the strong retro Western style, which was really dreamy.
5/5
Kitano Ijinkan Street is a traditional building preservation area located in Chuo Ward, Kobe City.
There are many Western-style buildings here that were built during the Meiji and Taisho periods, which are called "Ijinkan" by the Japanese. Kitano Ijinkan Street is a quiet place suitable for travelers who like to take a walk. It is even more attractive at night.
If you are planning to come from Nankinmachi, you can take the City Loop directly to Kitano Ijinkan Station, then walk along Kitano-dori and Yamamoto-dori, and then walk south.
5/5
I went for a walk with a friend on Christmas Eve!
The Starbucks on the way up Kitanozaka is very stylish, as it uses the original foreign style building 💃
Because it's the Christmas season, the buildings around town are decorated with Santa balloons and stuffed animals, making you feel like you're in a foreign country 🎅
There are several sweet shops along the way, and I think the fortune tellers at Fortune Telling King near the Ijinkan are (personally) likely to be accurate, so be sure to find them!
4/5
This area was filled with a variety of western cultures and traditions, including Italian and Denmark. It is definitely worth a visit.
5/5
Although there are many slopes, there are many sights to see, such as the Uroko-no-Yakata and the Weathervane-no-Yakata. There are also many cafes nearby, so there are plenty of places to rest if you get tired.
The view of the Kobe cityscape from the top of Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is particularly spectacular.
This is a spot that you should definitely visit.
Kobe Attraction #2: Kobe Port Tower
Kobe Port Tower is one of Kobe Harbor’s iconic landmarks. Set right on the waterfront, it’s mesmerizing when lit up at night, and from its observation deck you can take in Kobe’s skyline and seaside charm.
Reviews of Kobe Port Tower
4.4/5
180 reviews
5/5
The 360° night view is beautiful. The neon lights of Mt. Rokko were beautiful.
5/5
You can visit the iconic landmarks, and there are restaurants, creative cultural products, and solo exhibitions on different floors. Overall, it's a great option for taking photos and enjoying the panoramic views.
5/5
I think this place is a must-see. It's better to take the combo with the outdoor area. It's worth the money.
4/5
The scenery around Kobe Port Tower is truly beautiful, though the winter wind can be quite chilly. The climb up is quite quick, and the tower's unique design makes it a must-see.
KOBE, we miss you.
5/5
You can see the nightscape of Kobe Port and Osaka in the distance, as well as the concert venue itself. I happened to see a Miffy collaboration during my visit, with several photo spots and the tower's flag transformed into a bunny. The tower also boasts an art gallery and restaurant, making it more than I expected.
Kobe Attraction #3: Kobe Chinatown Nankin-machi
Kobe Chinatown is one of Japan’s three major Chinatowns, brimming with vibrant Chinese flair. Here, you can savor Japanese-style Chinese cuisine—an experience with a flavor all its own!
Reviews of Kobe Chinatown Nankin-machi
4.7/5
64 reviews
5/5
Nankinmachi is the common name for a narrow area between Motomachi-dori and Sakaemachi-dori in Chuo-ku, Kobe City. It is also a registered trademark of the Nankinmachi Shopping Street Revitalization Association. It is a Chinatown full of Chinese flavor.
5/5
There are many different gourmet restaurants lined up,
so you can enjoy eating your way around!
It's crowded,
but if you come in the morning,
it's not that crowded,
so I recommend lining up in the morning at the popular restaurants so you can eat without waiting too long.
The steamed meat buns and baked xiaolongbao are absolutely delicious!
5/5
It's a very crowded area with a lot of food. If you come to Kobe, I recommend you try Chinatown. The Peking duck is the most delicious. ❤️
5/5
A little China you can find in Japan
You can find new foods that are a fusion of Japanese and Chinese food.
A place full of various foods
4/5
It was very crowded with people.
There were so many shops that it was hard to decide what to buy. I lined up to buy some steamed meat buns, and they were delicious!
Kobe Attraction #4: Mount Rokko
Hop on the cable car up to Mount Rokko, where the summit offers the best panoramic views of the entire Kobe Port. Up on the mountain, you’ll also find a Music Box Museum, a botanical garden, and more—making it a perfect, family-friendly spot to explore and enjoy together.
Reviews of Mount Rokkō
4.4/5
127 reviews
4/5
where this place to go for skiing in the winter and sightseeing in the summer , the cables are ok , the night scenery of the city looks great too
5/5
A trip to Mount Rokko in Kobe, Japan is a refreshing experience. The mountaintop offers a wide view and a magnificent view of Kobe city and Osaka Bay. The scenery varies in each season, with cherry blossoms in spring and red leaves in autumn being particularly charming. The mountain has complete facilities, including gardens, cafes and observation decks, which are suitable for leisure and relaxation. The cable car experience is unique and the scenery along the way is picturesque. Whether you are a nature lover or a photography enthusiast, Mount Rokko offers an unforgettable experience and is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
5/5
Mount Rokko is located in the north of Kobe City. With an altitude of 931 meters, Mount Rokko is very close to the city and is famous for its rich natural scenery and spectacular panoramic views. You can take the cable car or follow the hiking trail to the top and enjoy the beautiful scenery that changes with the seasons.
In winter, Rokkosan Ski Resort is the closest ski resort to Osaka. Although it only has two ski slopes, it is very suitable for beginners and intermediate players.
5/5
📍Rokko Mountain
There are different packages to choose from, we chose:
🔸Rokko. Arima Katamichi seat ticket, adult ¥1,780
Includes cable car, bus, cable car (Arima to Kobe direction)
The cable car ride takes about 10 minutes, and there is a special person to explain (unfortunately I couldn't understand)
Looking down at the scenery below the mountain, passing through the tall trees
It's quite spectacular, and I suddenly feel so small
📍Rokko Shidare Natural Sensory Observation Deck
Admission ticket, adult ¥1,000
Rokko Shidare is the highest observation deck on Mount Rokko
It should be really beautiful when the weather is good
The natural sensory feeling is that it was too cold that day, and it was super windy
I had to take pictures quickly
"Life" Zipline is fun! I went there 3 times
📍Rokkosan Ten-Tai
Take advantage of the bus schedule and leave in the evening
Selected as "Japan's New Three Night Views - Million-Dollar Night View"
It's a bit far from the building, and the mountain view is blocked in front, but I think it's okay
The weather is too cold, and the hot drink vending machine is a lifesaver
I bought hot cocoa to warm my hands and stomach
After watching the night view, I took the cable car down the mountain to Kobe
(It was dark and there was no scenery to see)
5/5
Lots to do beyond just scenery. We took the cable car from Rokko Shita Cable Car station to Rokko Sanjo station up the mountain. I would recommend getting the bus to explore the mountain as there are restaurants and better views up the top. For those with athletic kids/ active adults, definitely would recommend checking out the athletic park - some fun ninja warrior style obstacle course there. We had a blast!
Kobe Attraction #5: Arima Onsen
Arima Onsen ranks alongside Dogo Onsen and Shirahama Onsen as one of Japan’s three great ancient hot springs. It’s only about an hour from central Kobe, making it an easy escape. Unwind in the baths and take in the nostalgic, old-world charm of its onsen town.
Reviews of Arima Onsen
4.6/5
123 reviews
4/5
nice place, surrounded by greenery, mountain river, natural springs. according to the information near the counter, the place has many awards. visited by Japanese. The ticket does not include massage, hot stones. for this you have to pay extra. my lunch was off, it was delicious. It is better to visit the mineral waters first silver, then gold and you do not need to wash off the minimum water immediately after the procedure.
5/5
It was my first time at a hot spring and it was so good. I asked around for the bus to get here and found it. It was so convenient that I think it was even better. I want to use it again. ㅎㅎ!!
5/5
This is a super public bath-like spot in Arima Onsen. You can enjoy both the gold and silver springs in one place. There is a restaurant, food court, and souvenir shop, so you can enjoy Arima Onsen to the fullest just here.
5/5
This is a hot spring I visited while traveling in Kobe. It was a hot spring town, and it was really amazing. I was able to use the foot bath for free, so I went for a quick dip. There were a lot of ryokans, so it seemed like a lot of people came with their families. Next time, I should visit a ryokan with my family.
5/5
Arima Onsen is a place where you can feel the quiet atmosphere of a hot spring town while being close to Kobe. There are two types of hot spring water, gold and silver, so you can have a unique hot spring experience. In particular, gold water has a lot of iron, so it feels warm, and silver water has a soft and comfortable feeling. In addition to the hot springs, the traditional streetscape and small shops are cute, so it's great for a walk. It's the perfect place to enjoy hot springs and heal in a quiet atmosphere.
Kobe Accommodation Recommendations
Check out these top-rated hotels in Kobe with exclusive coupons!
Kobe Hotels
5 star
Great1498 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|3.22km from city center
The hotel's location is excellent, right in front of the Citizen's Plaza tram stop, making it very convenient to get to from Kobe Airport. You can also take the hotel's shuttle bus from downtown Kobe, which runs every 20 minutes and departs from Gate 8 on the first floor of MINT. The room is spacious and even has a small balcony. There are parks, IKEA, and supermarkets nearby, and it's not far from the ocean.From$45
Very Good713 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|1.62km from city center
Pros:
1. The lobby is grand and spacious, which is quite rare for hotels in Japan.
2. The location is excellent. There's a subway station right downstairs, and Shin-Kobe Station is just a 3-minute walk away, making Shinkansen access super convenient. The cable car station for Nunobiki Herb Garden is also next door, and Kitano Ijinkan (Foreigner's Residences) is only a 10-minute walk.
3. The view from the guest room window is lovely.
4. The breakfast buffet is of high quality, and there's also a Japanese set breakfast option (if you're staying only 1-2 nights, I recommend sticking to the buffet; for three nights, you might try the set meal one day).
5. The staff are well-trained and have excellent service attitudes.
Cons:
1. The guest rooms' decor and furniture are quite outdated and lack design flair. They are overly simple and plain, not matching the impressive lobby.
2. In November, there was no air conditioning in the room. The south-facing room got a lot of sun, making it very stuffy and hot. I had to keep the emergency exit open to make it more bearable.
Overall, it's still worth recommending.From$51
Great823 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.94km from city center
Almost a perfect stay. First off, having a 12 PM checkout in Japan is already a huge plus. We arrived around 8 PM the night before, and the front desk staff were still in great spirits. The room was quite spacious for Japanese standards, and the view from the window was absolutely stunning, with the night view being even more captivating than during the day.
The only slight downside was the breakfast; for 3800 JPY per person, the selection wasn't very extensive, though the taste was decent enough.From$70
Amazing220 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.36km from city center
The Oriental Hotel Kobe is a true gem in the heart of the city. The room was beautifully designed with a perfect blend of modern comfort and classic elegance. The view of the harbor was breathtaking, and the staff’s hospitality was beyond exceptional. Every detail—from the lobby scent to the breakfast presentation—was refined and thoughtful. It’s one of the best hotels I’ve ever stayed at in Japan.From$145
Amazing350 Reviews
Arima Onsen Hotspring Kobe|12.79km from city center
One of the best accommodations I've ever had! Extremely polite and friendly service, private hotel springs are amazing, truly relaxing. Very easy and convenient self booking option. Free shuttle but to/from station, if you are afraid to call you can easily write them to WhatsApp or other messengers. I'm very exited and highly recommend this place to stay.From$263
Business travel
Great1008 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.73km from city center
The hotel's location is great, very close to Sannomiya but not in the busiest area, so it's very quiet. We stayed for four nights. The first three nights were in a double room. Due to a change in our itinerary, we added an extra night. We thought the twin room might be more spacious, but it turned out to be the same size as the double room. With two single beds crammed in, the room felt very small and wasn't as convenient for moving around as the double room. We could open one 28-inch suitcase, but opening another 28-inch one wasn't as easy as in the double room.
The hotel staff were friendly and enthusiastic, providing toothbrushes, towels, and slippers for the child. Besides the kids' items, the room's towels, slippers, toothbrushes, makeup remover pads, and combs were replaced daily, and two new bottles of water were provided. However, extra water couldn't be requested.
The hotel also offers luggage storage, which is very convenient.From$34
Very Good211 Reviews
Kobe|6.81km from city center
From Osaka Uehommachi, go directly to Uozaki (Google Maps says ”no transfer” means you get off and change to the next bus at the same platform), then transfer to the Rokko Express (which offers a wonderful view and a unique experience). Get off at Island Center Station three stops later, and the hotel is right at the East Exit of the overpass. Bus No. 23 is located on the first floor of the hotel, reaching Kobe Mita in the city center in about 20 minutes. The stop is right in front of the Hankyu Department Store. There are also buses to Shin-Kobe, but they run less frequently. The bus to Kobe Airport is also on the first floor. Reservations can be made at the front desk, and there's a self-service ticket machine at the entrance. The earliest bus leaves at 6:23 AM, and the trip takes just over an hour.
There's a FamilyMart convenience store next to the hotel. We booked a terrace room, which had a large outdoor terrace. The hotel's Hama Onsen is open until midnight and features several large and small pools, including an outdoor area. It's a great place to soak after strolling through the streets.From$96
Great974 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.64km from city center
I stayed here during the October holiday, and the price was quite high at over 1,000 yen per night. The location is on Sannomiya's busiest street, right next to Don Quijote, which makes dining and shopping very convenient. The room size was standard; I could open my 26-inch suitcase without a problem. They added an extra bed to our twin room as requested. The decor felt a bit old, rather dark and dingy. Overall, it met my expectations, but the price would be more reasonable if it were around 700-800 yen.From$43
Great553 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|1.02km from city center
Let's start with the location. It's actually a bit of a walk from Sannomiya subway station, about 10 minutes on foot. This isn't a problem if you don't have heavy luggage, but if you're pushing a cart full of bags, it can be a bit strenuous. Luckily, you just walk straight along the Yamanote Line, cross a large intersection (via the overpass), and you're there. It's relatively easy to find.
As for cleanliness, it's very clean and tidy. It's a quick-service hotel under Sheraton, and everything is quite well-thought-out.
Regarding facilities, the hotel's amenities are sufficient. Although bottled water isn't provided, there's a water dispenser with both hot and cold water. There's also a microwave and washing machine on the first floor.
For service, check-in and check-out are very quick. If you're staying for multiple nights, daily housekeeping is offered. Necessities like toothbrushes, toothpaste, facial cream, and facial cleanser can be self-served. If breakfast is included, it's at the Matsuya next door, which is convenient.From$35
Great1346 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.6km from city center
Review of The Royal Park Canvas Kobe
I recently stayed at The Royal Park Canvas Kobe and found it to be a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the city. The hotel is about a 10-minute walk from Sannomiya Station, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and convenience stores nearby. Kobe Chinatown is close by, and iconic spots like the “Be Kobe” monument and Kobe Tower are within a pleasant 25-minute walk. The Kitano Ijikan district is also easily reachable on foot.
The hotel offers self-service check-in and check-out through machines, with front desk staff standing by if assistance is needed. My room had a relatively large bathroom, which added to the comfort. The buffet breakfast was not bad, and a fun highlight was the free ice cream available from 8pm to 10pm.
A thoughtful touch is the presence of two donation bins where travellers can drop off unwanted clothing—an environmentally friendly and community-minded initiative.
Overall, The Royal Park Canvas Kobe is a well-located, comfortable stay with nice little touches that enhance the experience.From$48
Family friendly
Great157 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|15.72km from city center
Stunning views, almost all rooms face west towards the bridge and sunset. Excellent location, the beach is right in front, but you have to cross under tracks and highway, 5-6 min walk after you exit the escalator. Beds in adjoining rooms are large, we could easily fit a family of 6 in 2 rooms, and you even add extra beds if needed.From$52
Very Good259 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|3.13km from city center
I chose this hotel because I had a conference at the convention centre not knowing I have limited choice of getting something to eat (looking for halal option). Despite the lacking, I was able to survive for 3 days as I had to commute the Portliner to get something to eat. The location was quite a distance towards the portliner station therefore you have to walk a bit with your luggage if you are coming using public transport. The hotel surrounding is quiet. This is my first time staying at hotel in Japan, most of the time in airbnb. Towels were changed daily. Did not choose the breakfast. Service was acceptable.From$37
Great71 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|1.09km from city center
The husband fell ill on the second night, but he was saved by asking me to bring breakfast to the room. When my husband was resting in the room, I was out so that I wouldn't disturb him, but I used it because there was a sofa and reading space in the hotel. It was very good. I want to ask you again.From$282
Great195 Reviews
Arima Onsen Hotspring Kobe|12.88km from city center
This is quite a traditional onsen hotel, featuring both 'Gold' and 'Silver' springs. Our one-night stay for five people, including two meals, cost a total of 5000 RMB, and we were quite happy with the value. Upon arriving at Arima Station by bus, you can call the hotel for a pick-up service. Check-in is at 3 PM, leaving plenty of time to explore the small town afterwards, but be aware that most shops close by 5 PM. The Kaiseki dinner wasn't particularly impressive, but it was definitely filling.From$242
Great44 Reviews
Arima Onsen Hotspring Kobe|13.04km from city center
The hotel is quite big. It takes a big slope to get there from the station. It's too hard to pull the luggage. I wanted to call to pick up, but the store number provided by Ctrip was one digit less, so I couldn't get through. It happened that a ********* family called the station pick-up number and picked us up together.
The hotel is good, the service staff is very enthusiastic, the mountain view outside the window is beautiful, and there is no one in the hot spring at night, so you can enjoy the private bath treatment.
You can also open a private bath for free.
Because Ctrip's phone number is wrong, I can't contact the hotel, and I didn't book dinner in advance. When I checked in, the dinner was fully booked. I wanted to find food in the town, but the better restaurants were also fully booked. Be sure to book dinner in advance during the peak tourist season.From$197
Hot spring
Amazing695 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.75km from city center
Excellent value for money and a fantastic experience!
The hotel is located in Chinatown, surrounded by tons of great food options, and transportation is quite convenient.
The indoor hot spring, sauna, and bath facilities are absolutely wonderful! If you love soaking in hot springs and enjoying a sauna, you definitely shouldn't miss this. Soaking multiple times a day is pure bliss!
The staff's service attitude is great, and the hygiene and environment are also very good. Although the room size isn't large, it's really clean and tidy. The clothes and slippers provided were perfect to change into before heading straight to the bath!
Some of Kobe's attractions are also within walking distance. I highly recommend this place to all my friends!From$46
Great307 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.97km from city center
The room was spacious and comfortable, providing a serene atmosphere for relaxation. The onsen facilities, along with the provided Japanese bath suits and slippers, added a delightful touch to the experience.
The breakfast buffet featured a variety of healthy Japanese options, which I found both satisfying and nourishing. Additionally, the view of Kobe Tower from my room was a charming highlight.
The hotel's design reflects a refined minimalistic luxury, creating an elegant and calming environment. Overall, I highly recommend this hotel for anyone seeking a blend of comfort and traditional Japanese hospitality.From$175
Great210 Reviews
Arima Onsen Hotspring Kobe|12.48km from city center
This hotel is beautiful and the staff provides great service! Unfortunately, I didn't get the dinner because everything was booked in the restaurant, but they offered me to bring food to my room. At first I wanted to do that, but later I decided I wasn't sure if I would be hungry at that time, so I canceled.
The location is far from the center and the station, so it is better to spend your time in the village and return in the evening. This hotel is connected to another hotel, so I enjoyed just exploring everything inside. There are 2 public baths, each includes the bath inside and outside (actually, there are 3, but I didn't go outside as it was raining). It was really comfortable there. I chose the hotel only because I wanted to have an open-air onsen, and I got 2!
So, despite the location, I would recommend this place because it has a decent price, it has a great service and it is a perfect place to spend the evening!From$76
Very Good147 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|1.07km from city center
it was a nice stay but the room was quite old. the reason i stayed in this hotel was because the gym but apparently not everyone can use it and i think this is something that should be told prior of booking.From$37
Great191 Reviews
Arima Onsen Hotspring Kobe|12.54km from city center
The service of the staff is superb and way beyond expectation.
I noticed that the yugata for my wife is men’s size and my slipper is women’s size. I hope they can be more prepared on the suitable sizes to be available for guest.
The only thing I don't really like is the toilet room inside the Japanese style room. The wall paper has lots of stain spot, smelly and it is not quite comfortable to stay even for a short while to do your thing when you have a need.From$187
Gym
Very Good159 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|16.55km from city center
The hotel is in an excellent location. The station and shopping mall are right next door. Shopping and eating are very convenient. The hotel's hygiene and facilities are appropriate. The parking lot charges are reasonable. This is the hotel I will choose next time.From$44
14 Reviews
Kobe|17.31km from city center
It is worth a visit to a place, the environment is birds and flowers, there are many places to hang out, very like the big colleges in Europe, there is a big greenhouse, there are many tulips, maybe not yet officially too many people, very relaxed.From$18
Great13 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|16km from city center
The location, food, and service were all excellent.
The view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge right in front of us was spectacular! We spent a relaxing time watching the ever-changing scenery.
Because it was all-inclusive, we were able to freely use alcohol and snacks in the lounge. Highly recommended!From$404
Very Good102 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|1.93km from city center
The English proficiency of the local staff is appallingly bad. I went to drop off my luggage and was told I couldn't check-in yet as it was too early.
After finally checking in, I discovered my room was right next to the elevator. When booking, I had specifically requested a room away from the elevator, quiet, and non-smoking. It's my fault for not reconfirming with them, so I had to drag my luggage back to the front desk to change rooms. The new room was still on the street side, right next to the elevated highway, and directly opposite Kobe Station – you can imagine how noisy it was.
This is an old hotel that's been renovated. You don't need a key card for any of the elevators, so female travelers staying alone should definitely be mindful of their safety. The quality of the renovation can only be described with a 'heh,' the details are just dreadful. Forget the small details, the door wouldn't even close automatically; you had to manually push and pull it to make sure it latched properly. The mini-bar light switch had an intensely bright light that was dazzling at night. Amenities weren't replenished on the second day, not even the drinking water.
The staff passage, which also serves as a fire escape, was left wide open until 8 PM, indicating a lapse in safety management.
The water pressure and temperature in the shower were unstable – hot one moment, cold the next, and then the water flow would suddenly diminish.
I don't even want to comment on the breakfast; it felt worse than what you'd get at a slightly better budget hotel. The only made-to-order hot dish was an omelet. Every single cup was endlessly covered in limescale and scratches.From$134
Very Good837 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.6km from city center
This doesn't strike me as a typical Japanese-style hotel. Frankly, the cleanliness was the worst I've encountered in any Japanese hotel throughout my more than ten years of visits to the country. The bathroom shower stall had black stains and mold in every corner, and even the floor wasn't properly cleaned. While the room was long and narrow, the three beds were spacious. The hotel also boasts a good location, less than a five-minute walk from Sannomiya Station. However, breakfast was disappointing; the food quality was poor and it simply didn't taste good.From$32
Swimming pool
Very Good225 Reviews
Arima Onsen Hotspring Kobe|13km from city center
Accommodation is super convenient- comes with different types of sauna and onsen, and restaurants inside the hotel! The staff will set up futon in our room- affordable option for those who are looking for a ryokan experience. We also love the hotel breakfast! Feels v well nourished after that, esp after soaking in the onsen :) we also love the matcha senbei crackers that the hotel gave us and bought them at the souvenir store too. Highly recommend!From$182
Great15 Reviews
Arima Onsen Hotspring Kobe|12.97km from city center
The front desk service is very good. The room is very good, the floor-to-ceiling corner window has a beautiful view outside the window, the room facilities are very new, the room facilities are very complete, the room coffee and the refrigerator are very rich, the drinks are full, very considerate. The shampoo, conditioner and body lotion are all Bulgari, the experience is very good. They also thoughtfully prepared men's and women's skin care travel packs, which is very attentive. I would like to especially praise the staff of Hiroko-san who has been serving us since we received them during our stay. They are very enthusiastic, very attentive and very nice. The experience brought to us during our stay was very comfortable and very good. I look forward to meeting Hiroko-san again next time I stay.From$431
Very Good14 Reviews
Arima Onsen Hotspring Kobe|13.47km from city center
When you arrive at the Horse Station Hotel, you will send a car to pick you up. The overall service is good. It is set to have one berth and two meals, and it will be better to stay early. Dinner has a small hot pot and sashimi for Kobe beef, the room is ok, and the breakfast tastes good.From$198
Outstanding20 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|7.36km from city center
This time, our family of 6 stayed for 3 nights. Most people might have planned to have a BBQ dinner, but because it snowed for 2 days, it was a bit difficult to cook our own meals in the kitchen of the accommodation using local ingredients! Because there are too few equipment, only a small frying pan and a small soup pot, the equipment is relatively simple. I don’t know if it’s because of the cold weather, but both of the pipes in the bathroom sink are leaking…
But the staff provided good service and were warm and welcoming, and there was no problem communicating in English! Because of this, when it was snowing heavily and the snow tires were useless, they took the initiative to contact us and come to provide roadside assistance. Thank you so much🙏
However, please note that if you are traveling with an elderly person, unless it is House 3, there is a pebbled slope before entering the house, which is quite difficult.From$240
Great1870 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.25km from city center
The hotel's location is superb! It's just a five-minute walk from Sannomiya Station and the Kansai Airport limousine bus stop. You can also walk to the beach and Kitano Ijinkan-gai in about 10 minutes. Daimaru Department Store is right next door, and there are many famous brand stores nearby, so you can drop your shopping bags back at the hotel and continue browsing – super convenient! The hotel rooms are quite spacious for Japan. The only minor downside was the breakfast; the variety and quality were just average.From$69
Breakfast
Very Good225 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.64km from city center
Very happy with the stay not sure how it's only 3 stats very good value for money I stayed here for a break from the hostels and capsule hotels and I loved it . Allowed me to drop bag off before I checked inn room lovely shower could be a touch better rather than one that's over a bath but still gets the job done . And the location is brilliant very close to local train stations and subways would recommend . Plus the Japanese breakfast was lovely a first for meFrom$41
Very Good317 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.44km from city center
Location near
1. Kobe Sannomoya train stations.
2. City Loop, Port Loop buses for most tourist sights
3. Subway lines
4. 24h family mart convenience store (right below hotel)
Rooms are big
Good!From$31
Very Good192 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|3.7km from city center
The location of Kobe Lumen Hotel is very good. It is in the city and the parking lot is easy to find. It is in the alley directly opposite the hotel and the price is reasonable. The hotel service is very good. We arrived very late and the check-in time was past, but they did not neglect us and arranged to check in immediately. When we checked out in the morning, we were 5 minutes late and they did not say anything. They were very gentle. The room was very clean and warm. The sound insulation effect was very good and suitable for living. In short, because of the comparison with the previous one, this one is simply heaven.
The only flaw is that the room is a little small. Everything else is acceptable, mainly because of the cheap price.From$26
Great659 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.71km from city center
Our room was ready when we arrived at 2pm and made available to us immediately.
The room was clean, the staff friendly.
Tea, coffee, juice and water are complementary all day long and between 5 & 8 pm they offer wine and snacks. What more could we ask for? Excellent quality for the price!From$40
Great227 Reviews
Kobe Harbor Kobe|0.52km from city center
Inconvenience:
No bottled water so had to bring own flask for refill. No Chinese channel so had to use YouTube with Japanese remote control. No fridge so hard to buy sushi n beer etc. Constructions work not noisy with window closed but had to detour to some places. Twisting type taps of cold n hot abit hard to adjust. Limited cleaning of room.
Plus:
English speaking staff. Spacious room with comfy mattress. Nice big table with space saving storage cabinets. Near bus terminal to Awaji island, Arima Onsen n Premium outlet. Closed to many fast food n restaurant. Like the coloured bath salt n disposable shaver.
Overall a nice cosy DIY sort of stay. I would patronise again.From$43
FAQs about Kobe Transportation
Can I use a Suica card in Kobe?
These cards let you easily tap in and out of train station gates and public buses—including Kobe City buses and subways—making transportation across the Kansai region smooth and hassle-free. Mobile versions, such as ICOCA and Suica apps, are also widely accepted.What is the cheapest way to get to Kobe?
The most budget-friendly way to reach Kobe is by overnight bus. Several companies operate 8–9 hour trips from Tokyo to the greater Osaka region, with fares typically ranging between ¥5,000 and ¥8,500 one way.Does Kobe have a metro?
The Kobe Municipal Subway is a rapid transit network serving Kobe in Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan. Similar to other major Japanese cities, the subway is well integrated with the city’s suburban rail lines.Can you use 1 Suica for 2 people?
No, each traveler must have their own Suica card so that entry and exit at each station can be correctly recorded.