City Essentials: First Day • 3 hours 5
(32)

Kickstart your trip to Kobe

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

If you only have one day to spend in Kobe, consider buying  a pass for the City Loop bus that hits all of the major tourist sites

What makes this experience special

Key highlights

  • Find your feet in the lively city of Kobe with your host, who will show you the ropes
  • Learn the best ways to get around in Kobe and how to use the transport system- no getting lost on our watch!
  • Hit the streets and explore the area that you are staying in with your host, who will give you tons of recommendations
  • See a few famous attractions in the city and benefit from local knowledge and insights
  • Ask any questions you have about exploring Kobe, its cultural practices or where to eat

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

3 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Private and personalized experience
3 hours with a Host
Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options)

What’s not included

Food and drinks
Tickets to any attractions
Transportation costs
Gratuities (optional)

Meeting point

Kobe Tourist Information Center- The host will be waiting in front of the tourist information center

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

  • We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
  • Public transport may be used during the experience - please bring a travel card or small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

What you’ll do

If you’re visiting Kobe for the first time, chances are you want to find your feet amid the colorful sights and smiling faces that make this city so special.

Nestled between a scenic harbor and vast mountain ranges, there is just so much to experience in Kobe and you probably want to get right to it, but it can be daunting figuring things out in a new city - especially if you don't speak the language and can’t read the signs!

So, why not let one of our super-friendly local Kobe hosts show you the ropes so that you can get on with the important business of exploring?

They can't wait to introduce you to their lively city and it will feel like you are with an old friend as you get orientated. Depending on your vibe, you could check out some top attractions, stroll across the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, explore the area where you are staying in or just follow your feet on an adventure.

A quick trot from the Hanshin Motomachi station will lead you to Kitano Koubou - a trendy workshop and studio area full of local shops where you will find the best souvenirs! Plan B - grab your host and head down to a restaurant or cafe where you can sit down to a meal (Kobe beef is famous for good reason) and get the inside scoop on where to go, how to get there, and what to see.

1. Select a date
2. Select start time
3. Tailor your experience
Answer a few quick questions to help your host craft the perfect day tailored to you.
1. What’s your preferred hosting style?
2. How would you like the pace of your day?
3. What’s your walking comfort level?
4. Are you celebrating something special?

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.

recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.

What travelers think of our Kobe experiences

Nelson Jun 2025

Silvan was great! He showed me the places I liked and asked all my questions. Gave me brief history on the subjects we visited. Even gave information for anything else I had planned my remaining stay there! They will modify you itinerary to your liking. Thanks soo much!

Show more
Lori Jun 2025

We had the most wonderful experience exploring Kobe thanks to our amazing tour guide, Kako. From the moment we met, it was clear how much care and passion she put into sharing her city with us. What truly touched us, though, was the kindness shown beyond the tour itself. As a heartfelt gesture, Kami’s 10-year-old daughter made us beautiful origami flowers — delicate, colorful, and full of love. It was such a sweet and personal touch that we’ll never forget. It reminded us that travel isn’t just about the places you see, but the people you meet. If you’re visiting Kobe, we wholeheartedly recommend this tour guide. You’ll not only learn so much about the city but also leave with memories full of warmth and connection.

Show more
M Feb 2025

We had an absolutely fantastic day exploring the city of Kobe with our guide, Hiromi. From start to finish, she made the experience incredibly informative, engaging, and enjoyable. Her deep knowledge of the city’s history, culture, and hidden gems truly enriched our visit, and she shared everything with such enthusiasm and warmth. Not only was she exceptionally well-prepared, but she also made us feel completely at ease, ensuring that we had a seamless and memorable experience. Her passion for guiding and her attention to detail were evident throughout the entire tour. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide! If you’re planning a visit to Kobe, we highly recommend Hiromi—she will make your trip truly special. Thank you, Hiromi, for an unforgettable day

Show more
Neil Aug 2024

Very good English. Very good local knowledge but had also travelled extensively so easy to relate to.

Show more
Margo May 2024

I had an excellent tour with Marwan today. His English is PERFECT. He picked several very nice places including an old shrine, an historic house and the best was the Herb Garden which was beautiful. I give him 5 stars.

Show more
Margo May 2024

Marwan picked personalized sites to see. I was thrilled to go up the gondola to see the lovely “Herb Garden” which is filled with flowers and plants with paths down the.

Show more
SEE ALL REVIEWS