Port PickUp Kobe Private Tour with Licensed Guide and Vehicle

This private tour is designed for travelers arriving at Kobe Port by cruise ship. We pick you up at the cruise terminal or hotels near the port, and a government-licensed, English-speaking guide accompanies you in a comfortable private vehicle - an easy, relaxing way to explore Kobe and the surrounding Hyogo area. Enjoy a 6-hour customizable tour and choose 2 to 3 sights you like most. Stroll the waterfront at Meriken Park beneath the iconic red Port Tower, wander the historic Kitano district of Western-style residences, and soak up the lanterns and street food of Nankinmachi Chinatown. Ride up Mt Rokko or the Nunobiki Herb Garden ropeway for sweeping views over the city and bay, relax in the old hot-spring town of Arima Onsen, or admire the vast Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. Foodies can savour famous Kobe beef. Your private guide tailors the day to your pace and interests. With comfortable door-to-door transport, it is the perfect worry-free shore excursion before you return to your ship.

1. 1

   Kobe Port Tower

   30 min

   The striking red Kobe Port Tower stands on the waterfront at Meriken Park, an iconic symbol of the city. Stroll the park with its fountains and harbor views, see the Maritime Museum's white sail-like roof, and enjoy photo spots looking out over the bustling port and bay.

2. 2

   Kitano Ijinkan-gai

   40 min

   A historic hillside neighborhood where foreign merchants and diplomats built elegant Western-style homes after Kobe's port opened in the 1860s. Wander the charming sloping streets lined with colorful ijinkan residences, boutiques and cafes, with lovely views down to the harbor.

3. 3

   Chinatown (Nankinmachi)

   30 min

   Kobe's vibrant Chinatown, packed with red gates, lanterns and dozens of food stalls and restaurants. Soak up the lively atmosphere and sample popular street snacks like steamed buns, dumplings and other Chinese treats as you wander the bustling lanes.

4. 4

   Mt. Rokko

   45 min

   Rising behind the city, Mt Rokko offers some of Japan's most celebrated panoramic views over Kobe, the harbor and Osaka Bay - spectacular by day and as a glittering carpet of lights at night. Reach the summit area by scenic cable car and enjoy gardens, terraces and fresh mountain air.

5. 5

   Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens

   1 hour

   Kobe's largest herb garden, reached by a scenic ropeway that climbs the mountainside with sweeping views over the city and port. Wander terraced flower and herb beds, glasshouses and viewpoints, and relax at a cafe overlooking the bay.

6. 6

   Ikuta Shrine

   20 min

   One of the oldest shrines in Japan, set in the heart of Kobe just a short walk from the shopping district. This peaceful red-and-green Shinto shrine is dedicated to a deity of matchmaking and good relationships, and offers a quiet, atmospheric break amid the busy city.

7. 7

   Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

   30 min

   One of the world's longest suspension bridges, this engineering marvel links Kobe with Awaji Island across the Akashi Strait. Admire the vast white towers and sweeping cables from the seaside park and promenade, with great photo opportunities over the busy waterway.

8. 8

   Sawa no Tsuru Museum

   20 min

   Sawanotsuru Sake Museum was opened in 1978 with the aim of commemorating the sake-brewing heritage of the Nada district. It was destroyed by the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995 and was subsequently rebuilt in 1999. Visitors can learn about traditional brewing methods and the ingredients involved. English pamphlets are available.

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.