Nestled on a hillside facing the sea, in the shadow of the Mount Rokkō range, Kobe is one of Japan's ten largest cities. Perhaps most famous for its world-renown beef, this is a picturesque and cosmopolitan waterfront metropolis, and a deservedly popular destination for couples, friends and families. Home to 1.5 million people, the city teems with heritage attractions, marvellous museums, great shops and delectable eateries. Accommodation options are wide-ranging, with everything from simple waterfront hotels to private villas tucked in the surrounding hills. Big or small, the best places to stay in Kobe guarantee a warm welcome and terrific cuisine.
Traditionally a maritime trading hub, the city continues to look towards the ocean. You’ll find bustling parks, promenades and entertainment districts — including trendy Harborland — close to the waterfront and the scenic port. Explore on foot or bicycle, popping in to the Kobe City Museum, the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum and the enormous Kobe Port Tower. The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, once the longest suspension bridge in the world, is not to be missed, nor are the wooden Ikuta Shrine, built in 201 AD, and the curious Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum.
Venture beyond the city limits to climb Mount Rokkō or take the cable car to its summit. Recognised as one of the three 'Great Views of Japan', this is a very special spot. Return to the city centre to savour regional specialities — and the iconic Kobe beef — at one of the best places to stay in Kobe.
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Kobe (Tarumi-ku)
Maiko Villa Kobe is a great value hotel in a coastal location a short distance outside Kobe. Choose from Western and Japanese-style accommodation, dine in five restaurants, and relax in the swimming pool. Families are well-catered for, and banquet spaces make this an excellent events venue.
Kobe (Chuo-ku)
Kobe Kitano Hotel enjoys a splendid downtown location & features elegant, British-inspired interiors. Feast on gourmet French cuisine at Ash, explore Kobe on foot or by bicycle & enjoy relaxing massages. A red-brick boutique hotel channelling old-school charm, perfect for couples or families.
Kobe (Takarazuka-shi)
Hotel Wakamizu is located in Takarazuka, just a 5 minute walk from the train station. The hotel offers both Western and Japanese-style rooms (think tatami woven-straw flooring and futon bedding). Enjoy traditional kaiseki cuisine at the Sumire lounge and relax in the onsen. A classic, unfussy stay!
Kobe
Ryokan in the hills above Kobe boasting Japanese and Western style rooms, complete with tatami mat floors and spacious verandas; the best rooms feature private baths. Plus there are indoor and outdoor hot spring fed onsens, a spa and a restaurant serving authentic cuisine with ever changing menus.
Kobe (Hyogo)
Kōbe'S oldest hotel, the Oriental has been in operation for over a century. Effortlessly elegant throughout with the glamour of an era gone by and touches of contemporary style apparent in the design. A selection of exemplary restaurants and spectacular sea views make this a hard property to beat.
Kobe (Hyogo)
A traditional hotel in Arima Onsen. Spacious Japanese-style rooms feature tatami mat flooring and authentic sliding doors alongside hints of modern Western influence. Enjoy delightful local cuisine in the renowned restaurant, and relax in the hot spring baths. A blissful adults-only stay.
Kobe (Kobe)
This stylish hotel offers private villas set alongside a quiet stream in Kobe. Guest accommodation combines traditional Japanese woodwork with contemporary furnishings and forest views. After dinner, soak in the hotel's hot spring bath, drawn from natural sources in Arima.
Kobe (Chuo-ku)
A luxurious property situated on the waterfront overlooking the harbour. Elegant rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, chandeliers and soft hues. The glamorous restaurants serve Japanese and International cuisine and there's a spoiling spa. A chic & romantic base for city exploring.
