Custom Tour in KOBE with Private Car & Driver [Max 4 Pax]

Kobe, JP

Included

  • inclusion
    Private transportation
  • inclusion
    Air-conditioned vehicle
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    Fuel fees, parking fees, toll fees

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Accommodations
  • exclusion
    Entrance fees
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    Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner ...)

What to expect

1
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens

Shin-Kobe Ropeway is one of three services that lifts tourists up the southern slopes of the Rokko mountain chain. The ropeway departs from next to Shin-Kobe Station, Kobe's shinkansen station. As it ascends, it passes by the Nunobiki Waterfall and the Nunobiki Herb Garden, giving a nice aerial view of both. The highlight of the ride lies in the observation deck located just beside the top station, which offers spectacular views of Kobe and is a popular night view spot. An alternative way to get to the top station is via a hiking trail from Shin-Kobe Station. It is somewhat surprising that only a few steps north of the station are forests shielded from the rumbles of the city. A 15-20 minute climb through the woods takes you to the 43 meter tall Nunobiki Waterfall, whose name comes from its draped cloth-like appearance. Five minutes east from here is the Miharashi Observatory, which offers decent views of the city. A further 20 minute scale up the mountain takes you to the middle station of Shin-Kobe Ropeway and the lower entrance of Nunobiki Herb Garden, one of Japan's largest herb gardens with hundreds of herb species and seasonal flowers. A glasshouse in the garden makes growing flowers and fruits such as guavas and papayas possible throughout the year. At the upper entrance of the garden is the top station of Shin-Kobe Ropeway. Here, in addition to the observation deck, is a rest house with a cafe, restaurant and souvenir shop which sells many herbal and aromatic products. There is also a "Rose Symphony Garden", where visitors can enjoy viewing different varieties of roses during their blooming seasons while listening to music. For hikers who would rather skip the garden, the top station and observation deck can be hiked to following a 30 minute trail that bypasses the garden on its east. After reaching the ropeway's top station, the same trail continues on to Mount Maya, one of the peaks of the Rokko mountain chain.

Duration 120 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
2
Kobe Harborland

Kobe Harborland is a shopping and entertainment district between JR Kobe Station and the waterfront of Kobe's port area. The district offers a large selection of shops, restaurants, cafes and other amusements, which, together with the romantic evening atmosphere, have made it a popular spot for couples and tourists alike. The most prominent shopping complex in Kobe Harborland is Umie which consists of three parts: Mosaic, South Mall and North Mall. Mosaic stretches along the waterfront and offers a wide selection of restaurants. Many of the eateries overlook the harbor with views of Kobe Port Tower and the Kobe Maritime Museum across the water, which are especially nice in the evenings when they are illuminated. At the southern end of Mosaic stand a Ferris wheel and the Anpanman Museum, a museum dedicated to the popular manga and anime series about the bread-headed superhero. The South Mall and North Mall are enclosed shopping malls featuring a department store and more various smaller shops. More shopping and dining opportunities are found in many of the district's other buildings, which are connected with each other by a series of underground and surface walking paths, promenades and a waterfront boardwalk. One of the main streets that leads through the center of Kobe Harborland, the Gaslight Street, is lit up in the evenings by old-fashioned gas street lamps and electric lights. Other attractions in the district include the Renga Soko, a small collection of 19th-century brick warehouses which remain from a former dockyard that used to cover the waterfront. The low brick buildings have been renovated and are now occupied by a restaurant, shops and an event space. In addition, a Manyo Club hot spring is located on the top floors of the district's Puromena skyscaper. The 24 hour facility offers nice views over the city from some of its baths.

Duration 60 minutes
3
Kitano Ijinkan-gai

Kitano-cho is a city district at the foot of the Rokko mountain range where many foreign merchants and diplomats settled after the Port of Kobe was opened to foreign trade in the second half of the 19th century. More than a dozen of the former mansions, known as Ijinkan, remain in the area and are open to the public as museums. Most of the houses charge an admission fee between 550 to 750 yen, while combination tickets are available to see multiple houses. The entire district is pleasant to walk through and offers a variety of cafes, restaurants and boutiques, making it a favorite among young Japanese couples.

Duration 60 minutes
4
Chinatown (Nankinmachi)

Nankinmachi is a compact Chinatown in central Kobe and a center of the Chinese community in the Kansai Region. The area was developed by Chinese merchants who settled near Kobe Port after the port was opened to foreign trade in 1868. As the Chinatown developed, it became known as Nankinmachi after Nanjing, the former Chinese capital. Nankinmachi is a popular tourist attraction and shopping and dining district. Two main streets run through the district, meeting each other at a small plaza in the center. They are packed with shops, restaurants and food stands that sell popular items such as steamed buns (manju), ramen, tapioca drinks and various other Chinese dishes, many of which have been Japanized to a certain degree.

Duration 60 minutes
5

Arima Onsen

Arima Onsen is a famous hot spring town within the city limits of Kobe, but on the opposite side of Mount Rokko from the city center. The town lies in a natural mountain setting, yet is close enough for Kobe and Osaka residents as an easy and popular day trip or weekend getaway.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
6
Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum

Kobe's Nada (灘) district is Japan's top sake producing region. It has long been famous for its sake due to the availability of high quality rice, suitable water and favorable weather conditions in the area. Its proximity to Kobe Port and Osaka has also facilitated physical distribution since olden times. Many sake breweries operate in the Nada district, which stretches approximately three kilometers east to west. Some open stores and/or exhibition rooms to the public and allow guests to taste their sake. A couple of them also maintain a museum introducing the process of sake brewing.

Duration 60 minutes
7
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is, with a length of almost four kilometers, the world's longest suspension bridge. Opened in 1998, it spans the Akashi Strait (Akashi Kaikyo) between Kobe and Awaji Island and is part of the Kobe-Awaji-Naruto Expressway, one of three expressways which connect Honshu with Shikoku. The Bridge Exhibition Center at the foot of the Kobe side of the bridge provides well-presented information about the planning and construction of the bridge and about other suspension bridges around the world, although the detailed explanations are available in Japanese only. The Maiko Marine Promenade consists of observatory hallways under the bridge's platform, about 50 meters above the water. Accessed by elevator from the base of the bridge (Kobe side), the hallways offer interesting views of the bridge's interior, the Akashi Strait and Osaka Bay.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Specialized infant seats are available
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What our experts say

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    Visit Nunobiki Herb Gardens for views
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    Try local delicacies in Chinatown
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    Relax at Arima Onsen after touring
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    Enjoy dinner at Harborland's Mosaic
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    Don’t miss the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge!

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the beauty of Kobe like never before with the Custom Tour in KOBE with Private Car & Driver. This 8-hour tour offers the perfect opportunity to explore the city at your own pace and according to your preferences. With a private car and driver at your disposal, you can create a personalized itinerary that covers all your favorite sites and includes any special requests you may have. Whether you're interested in Kobe's stunning landmarks, delicious cuisine, or vibrant culture, this tour has it all.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to have an unforgettable experience exploring Kobe's most iconic sites and hidden gems. With the flexibility of a private car and driver, you'll have the freedom to choose the destinations that interest you the most. Whether you want to visit the famous Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, stroll through the charming streets of Kobe, or indulge in the city's renowned culinary scene, your driver will ensure you have a seamless and enjoyable experience. Expect comfort, convenience, and personalized service throughout the entire tour.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for anyone looking to explore Kobe in a unique and hassle-free way. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, a group of friends, or a family, this tour can be tailored to suit your specific needs and preferences. The private car and driver make it ideal for those who value privacy, comfort, and flexibility. Whether you're a first-time visitor to Kobe or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers a fresh perspective on the city and allows you to discover its hidden treasures.

Why book this?

Booking the Custom Tour in KOBE with Private Car & Driver offers numerous advantages and unique selling points. Firstly, the convenience of having a private car and driver ensures a stress-free and comfortable experience. You won't have to worry about navigating public transportation or finding parking spots. Secondly, the personalized itinerary allows you to explore Kobe according to your own interests and preferences. Whether you want to visit historical sites, indulge in culinary delights, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, this tour has it all. Finally, the expertise of the driver, who is knowledgeable about Kobe's attractions, ensures that you'll have an enriching and insightful experience.

Good to know

It's important to note that while the driver will accompany you to most sites, there are some instances where they may not be able to join you. This could be due to the need for rest or breaks, limited parking availability, or high parking costs. However, the driver will always be available to assist you and provide guidance throughout the tour. Additionally, it's worth mentioning that you have the flexibility to amend the itinerary even while traveling with the driver, allowing you to make spontaneous changes or additions to your plans. Please keep in mind that extra charges may apply for overtime services or if you require pick-up or drop-off at Kansai International Airport (KIX).

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the Custom Tour in KOBE with Private Car & Driver have praised the convenience and flexibility it offers. They appreciate being able to explore Kobe's highlights at their own pace and according to their preferences. The private car and driver have been described as professional, knowledgeable, and accommodating, providing valuable insights and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Many reviewers highlight the convenience of having a dedicated driver, as it eliminates the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads and finding parking. Overall, travelers have expressed high satisfaction with this tour, praising it as the perfect way to discover the wonders of Kobe.

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