Michelle

Hi, I’m Michelle

Half-Japanese half-USA American, bi-cultural/bi-lingual, outgoing spirit, who has passions for many genres of life. I have lived on and off throughout my entire life in this beautiful Kobe city. Life-long entrepreneur, ex-elite-level athlete, and multi-media artist. I love trying new things, and seeing new places, and want to offer you my enthusiasm while helping you explore Kobe. The go-to person who can take you equally to the main attractions along with "off the beaten path", mom & pop izakaya eateries, to the happenin’ places for night life. Of course this won’t leave out the famous temples/jinjas, hot springs, and popular shopping locations. Is this a family trip? I have children myself, and know many children friendly places for your family to enjoy. Tell me what peaks your interest, and we can plan your Kobe travels that's especially tailored for you.

4.83 (18)

I’ve lived in Kobe for 23 years

I speak English, Japanese

I am Post Pregnancy Rehab Specialist

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Japanese

My Favorite Experiences To Host

Half day in Kobe with a local Flexible Half-Day Discovery
Kobe

Half day in Kobe with a local

5 (60)
4 hours
From   $124   per person
See details

A 3rd-century Shinto shrine, exquisitely marbled Kobe beef and unusually themed pet cafes.

Kickstart your trip to Kobe City Essentials: First Day
Kobe

Kickstart your trip to Kobe

5 (60)
3 hours
From   $97   per person
See details

Get oriented, try Kobe beef and learn to speak Japanese. (Kidding about the last one. Or are we?)

Must see Kobe with a local Iconic Sights & Hidden Gems
Kobe

Must see Kobe with a local

5 (40)
8 hours
From   $232   per person
See details

Mount Rokko, glass bottomed bridges and strolls along the Maiko Marine Promenade.

Eat like a local in Kobe Local Food & Drink Tastings
Kobe

Eat like a local in Kobe

5 (41)
4 hours
From   $175.5   per person
See details

Sublime cocktails, 70cm-long sausage and mustard rolls and boiled sand eels for the brave!

Cherry blossom season in Kobe Seasonal Highlights
Kobe

Cherry blossom season in Kobe

5 (33)
4 hours
From   $175.88   per person
See details

Discover the enchantment of the sakura season through "hanami" festivities with a local host who knows all the insider secrets.

Full day in Kobe with a local Flexible Full-Day Discovery
Kobe

Full day in Kobe with a local

5 (43)
8 hours
From   $232   per person
See details

The Kobe Port Tower, sweeping coastlines, fresh alpine air and the weird and wonderful of Chinatown.

Family day in Kobe with a local Family-Friendly
Kobe

Family day in Kobe with a local

5 (38)
5 hours
From   $151   per person
See details

A whirlwind of cable car rides, pink elephants, an owl cafe and virtual reality arcades.

Cruise stop-over: day trip to Kyoto from Kobe port Shore Excursion
Kobe

Cruise stop-over: day trip to Kyoto from Kobe port

5 (34)
8 hours
From   $325.5   per person
See details

Discover Kyoto’s traditions and ancient culture on a day trip from Kobe Port.

Pre-Trip Planning Session
Kobe

Kobe trip planning video call

5 (79)
30-90 minutes
From   $25   per person
See details

Video chat or email with a local to plan your perfect trip or get answers to all your questions

Cruise stop-over: day trip to Osaka from Kobe port Shore Excursion
Kobe

Cruise stop-over: day trip to Osaka from Kobe port

5 (36)
8 hours
From   $254   per person
See details

Discover Osaka’s sense of humor, street eats and neon-lit canals on a day trip from Kobe Port.

Articles I Recommend or Wrote

10 Hidden Gems In Kobe

By Stephen Edmunds

The Best Things To Do In Kobe At Night

By Stephen Edmunds

One Day In Kobe - The Ultimate 24 Hour Itinerary

By Stephen Edmunds

Where To Stay In Kobe - Best Neighborhoods Guide

By Marcelo Medina

Top 10 Things To Do In Kobe

By Marcelo Medina

Must Eat Foods In Kobe And Where To Eat Them

By Marcelo Medina
See All Articles

What My Guests Think of Me

L
Lynn 12 October 2025

Michelle was so knowledgeable, kind, and attentive. She personalized our tour and was a bright light in the experience as she is energetic, fun, and speaks impeccable English.

Show more
G
Gregory 26 May 2025

Michelle was wonderful! I didn't know what to expect with the trip to Kobe as we didn't know much about it compared to the other cities. It was nice to walk with someone who lived in Kobe their entire life, along with time in the US which certainly helped us connect. Got a real feel of the life here. What a wonderful place. Nice living in the mountains and on the water at the same time. Truly beautiful.

Show more
K
Karin 15 April 2024

Meeting Michelle in Kobe was like catching up with an old friend. She is enthusiastic, full of energy (and interesting fun facts), and catered perfectly to our group including our 9 year old grandson. We requested a guide with great spoken English skills and Michelle certainly delivered. We very much enjoyed walking the city, visiting temples and shrines, looking for the fun and hidden details, and learning about every day life in Kobe. Without Michelle we could not have seen all the things we did on an organised tour or ship shore excursion.

Show more
J
Josephine 7 December 2023

Michelle was wonderful and fun. We were lucky to have her as she was born and raised in Kobe. We were travelers not tourists. She took around Kobe where only the locals went which was great. Thank you Michelle!

Show more
Back
4.83
(4 reviews)
Lynn, 12 October 2025

Michelle was so knowledgeable, kind, and attentive. She personalized our tour and was a bright light in the experience as she is energetic, fun, and speaks impeccable English.

Gregory, 26 May 2025

Michelle was wonderful! I didn't know what to expect with the trip to Kobe as we didn't know much about it compared to the other cities. It was nice to walk with someone who lived in Kobe their entire life, along with time in the US which certainly helped us connect. Got a real feel of the life here. What a wonderful place. Nice living in the mountains and on the water at the same time. Truly beautiful.

Karin, 15 April 2024

Meeting Michelle in Kobe was like catching up with an old friend. She is enthusiastic, full of energy (and interesting fun facts), and catered perfectly to our group including our 9 year old grandson. We requested a guide with great spoken English skills and Michelle certainly delivered. We very much enjoyed walking the city, visiting temples and shrines, looking for the fun and hidden details, and learning about every day life in Kobe. Without Michelle we could not have seen all the things we did on an organised tour or ship shore excursion.

Josephine, 7 December 2023

Michelle was wonderful and fun. We were lucky to have her as she was born and raised in Kobe. We were travelers not tourists. She took around Kobe where only the locals went which was great. Thank you Michelle!

Meet Other Hosts in Kobe

Our hosts bring destinations to life, sharing local stories and crafting your perfect experience.

Taiga

Kobe
Lively Kobe host, foodie with a flair for history and a knack for finding Kobe's best eateries, sake spots, and hidden stories.
5.0 (33)
View Host

Ryan

Kobe
Passionate Kobe host, outdoor explorer, and craft beer enthusiast who knows all the secret paths to Kobe's adventure-filled days and vibrant nights!
5.0 (20)
View Host

Angelica

Kobe
Lively Kobe host, and connoisseur of hidden gems, capturing the city's charm and quirky corners with a wink and a smile.
5.0 (19)
View Host

Hiromi

Kobe
5.0 (16)
View Host

Silva

Kobe
Kobe's culinary insider and friendly foodie host, with a taste for authentic eats and hidden local delights.
4.9 (14)
View Host

Rio

Kobe
Nature-loving Kobe local with a keen eye for shopping hotspots, hidden alleys, and the city’s best dining gems.
5.0 (8)
View Host

GIKEN

Kobe
Temple insider and local guide with a deep connection to Kobe's spiritual heritage and hidden gems.
4.6 (7)
View Host

Manami

Kobe
Lively Kobe host with a passion for food, craft beer, sake, live music, and hot springs, ready to show you the best of this vibrant city!
5.0 (4)
View Host

Max

Kobe
Sake enthusiast and history buff with an insider’s knowledge of Kobe’s legendary breweries and their rich traditions.
4.6 (5)
View Host

HAMU

Kobe
Family-friendly explorer and local dining enthusiast with a knack for finding Kobe’s best spots for kids and hidden gems.
5.0 (4)
View Host
Back

Hi, I’m Taiga

Kobe
5.0 (33)

What I love most about Kobe is its fascinating blend of history, nature, and modern charm. From the historical hillside spots to breathtaking waterfalls, zoos, and aquariums, there’s always something new to explore. The harborfront is a personal favorite—there’s nothing like enjoying a glass of wine while feeling the sea breeze and watching a street performance. I’m a huge fan of food and love introducing visitors to Kobe’s world-class eateries, sake breweries, and the lush herb gardens. I also know the surrounding areas like Himeji, Sanda, Ashiya, Nishinomiya, and Akashi like the back of my hand. I can’t resist sharing my passion for udon noodles and fresh seafood. Kobe has my heart, and I’d love to share its incredible history, delicious cuisine, and warm culture with you!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Mandarin
  • Japanese
Back

Hi, I’m Ryan

Kobe
5.0 (20)

In my downtime, you'll often find me sipping on local craft beers, exploring new flavors, and chatting with the friendly locals. And speaking of exploration, I'm an enormous hiking enthusiast. Kobe's mountains offer a treasure trove of trails waiting to be discovered. After a day of hiking, there's nothing like a relaxing soak in one of the local onsens. Sannomiya and Motomachi are areas I know, like the back of my hand. But I also have a soft spot for Rokko Island, Nada Ward, Uozaki, and the Rokko mountain hiking trails. There's a hidden gem for everyone in Kobe, and I will help you find yours. So, if you're looking for an unforgettable time in Kobe, count on me to make it fun and memorable. Let's explore this incredible city together!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • French
  • Spanish
  • Japanese
Back

Hi, I’m Angelica

Kobe
5.0 (19)

I'm Angelica, your spirited host to Kobe's charms and chill vibes. This city is like that laid-back friend you can't help but love—less of the hustle and more about the huddle, especially with its warm-hearted locals who've practically adopted me! When I'm not wandering through Kobe's streets discovering new nooks and crannies, you'll find me crocheting or lost in a book at a cafe, reveling in the luxury of easily snagging a seat—take that, crowded city life! I've become quite the whiz with my camera, capturing Kobe's essence one snapshot at a time, and I've got a knack for uncovering those secret spots that make every outing an adventure. Ready to see Kobe through my lens and maybe find a new hobby along the way? Let's make some memories!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Japanese
Back
Sunlit Smiles at the Historic Mansion
Winter's Embrace at Rhenania House
Group of people standing in front of Kobe Port Tower in Japan.

Hi, I’m Hiromi

Kobe
5.0 (16)

I have spent almost all my life in the Kobe area. It is one of the major cosmopolitan cities with both mountains and sea nearby. It’s my great pleasure to show you around my beloved city Kobe. Also, Kobe is close to Kyoto and Osaka, and so I’ve guided foreign visitors around and enjoyed the different characteristics of each city together. In addition, I teach Japanese to foreign residents and university students. If you have any interest in the Japanese language, feel free to talk and ask. I am looking forward to making your time a more memorable one. I hope to meet you soon!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Japanese
J E
Enjoyed everything! — J E , Kobe
Back

Hi, I’m Silva

Kobe
4.9 (14)

I'm Silva, your friendly host in the vibrant city of Kobe. I'm all about diving deep into the rich history and culture that make this place unique, beautifully blending the traditional with the foreign. Oh, and the Kobe beef will have you coming back for more! I love strolling through Kobe Harborland, savoring every bite of our famous beef, and discovering all the nooks and crannies of Shioya, with its quaint restaurants and charming retro train stations. Hyogo ken is my playground, filled with traditional spots and breathtaking shrines that I can't wait to share with you! As a local foodie, I know all the hidden gems where you can taste authentic dishes that are only known to the locals. Let's explore the beautiful spots together in Kobe and make your trip unforgettable.

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • French
  • Spanish
  • Japanese
Back

Hi, I’m Rio

Kobe
5.0 (8)

While most people know Kobe for its famous beef, the local food scene has so much more to offer, from amazing Chinese cuisine to delicious street food like okonomiyaki. I enjoy wandering through different parts of the city, with Motomachi and Tarumi being my favorites. I also love discovering great but affordable restaurants with friends. I know Kobe inside out—from department stores and scenic coastal spots to hidden alleys in Sannomiya and Motomachi where you might stumble upon a hidden gem. Whether you're looking for local bars, beautiful views, or a bit of history, I’d love to show you around!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Japanese
Back

Hi, I’m GIKEN

Kobe
4.6 (7)

Kobe is full of local restaurants that are so delicious and welcoming, you’ll want to visit them again and again. Just walking through the city is a joy, with beautiful views around every corner. People here are warm and open, especially in local spots where real connections happen. My family runs a temple, so I can guide you through temple-related places and experiences. I also know many high-end and hidden local restaurants, and I’m happy to tailor recommendations to your taste. If you're into anime and manga, I’d love to share some local favorites too!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Japanese
Back

Hi, I’m Manami

Kobe
5.0 (4)

I'm Manami, your friendly local host here in Kobe! One of my favorite pastimes is exploring Kobe's food scene, diving into authentic flavors at local restaurants and savoring Japanese craft beer and sake. But my adventures don't stop there! I thrive on new experiences, especially when it comes to visiting Japanese sake breweries like those in Sanda City and Sasayama. I'm your go-to for the best live music venues, particularly for Japanese rock, and I know just the spots to indulge in the city's mouthwatering local dishes. Plus, I'm well-versed in the neighborhoods, whether it's the relaxing hot springs of Arima or the hustle of Kobe Premium Outlet. Let's make the most of your time in Kobe together—whether it's soaking in the scenery, savoring delicious food, or rocking out to some tunes, I'm here to ensure you have an unforgettable experience!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Japanese
Back
Coffee Break in Vibrant Cityscape
Basking in Kobe's Harbor Charm

Hi, I’m Max

Kobe
4.6 (5)

Having lived in Seattle, I find the sister-city connection between the two places fascinating! One of my favorite ways to enjoy Kobe is hiking on Mount Rokko, then soaking in the relaxing hot springs of Arima Onsen. Downtown, I love exploring Nankinmachi Chinatown and discovering stylish boutiques. I also have a deep knowledge of Kobe’s sake breweries and their history, as well as the fascinating foreign settlement houses in Kitano. Whether you're here for history, culture, or just great food, I’d love to show you around!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English
  • Japanese
  • Italian
Back

Hi, I’m HAMU

Kobe
5.0 (4)

What I love most about Kobe is how tradition and modernity blend to create a unique atmosphere. From high-end Kobe beef to delicious local diners, the food culture here is amazing. I enjoy taking in the panoramic views from Kobe Herb Garden and strolling through the lively Motomachi shopping streets. I know the best kid-friendly spots in the city and the scenic viewpoints that locals love. Whether you're looking for great food, family-friendly attractions, or hidden gems, I’d love to show you around and share what makes Kobe so special!

Here’s how I can help make your experience unique.

Languages I speak

  • English