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.

The Best Places to Stay in Kobe

For Great Value

• Maiko Villa Kobe is an enormous coastal hotel, just outside of central Kobe. Pick this place for an affordable holiday with family, or for a business trip. There's a swimming pool with shallow kids' area, five dining options, and multiple events spaces — including a karaoke room. Excellent value for money.

For Traditional Charm

• Hotel Wakamizu is just five minutes from the train station in Takarazuka. Pick this place for the restful hot spring baths, the traditional Japanese interiors — think tatami matting and futon bedding — as well as the classic cuisine. Meeting spaces and a banquet hall also make this a great business trip choice.

For a Central Stay

• Kobe Kitano Hotel has 30 traditional rooms tucked within a red-brick building in a downtown location. Interiors channel classic British style, whilst the French restaurant specialises in gourmet cuisine. A boutique choice within easy reach of many Kobe highlights.
• The Oriental Hotel is the oldest in the city, and has welcomed guests for over a century. Elegant rooms and suites fuse the charms of a bygone era with contemporary comforts. A chic hotel with ocean views and impressive shared spaces, just next to the Kobe City Museum.
• Hotel La Suite offers luxurious rooms and suites with waterfront views from floor-to-ceilng windows and private terraces in Harborland. Expect exceptional French and Japanese cuisine at two glamorous restaurants, a pampering spa and a superb location. Very romantic.

For a Rural Retreat

• Arimasansoh Goshobessho offers sumptuous private villas alongside a tranquil stream. Inland from Kobe, this rural retreat offers a brilliant chance to reconnect with nature whilst staying with friends and family or hiding away as a couple. Feast on gourmet Japanese cuisine, enjoy long leafy walks or soak in the hotel's hot spring bath. Villas feature traditional Japanese woodwork, contemporary design and forest views.

FOR AN APARTMENT

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

• Fly to nearby Kobe Airport or to Osaka's Kansai International Airport, an hour and 20 minutes away. Alternatively, catch the fast train from Tokyo; you'll be in Kobe in under three hours.
• Kobe is best navigated by public transport, but you may want to drive if you're exploring beyond the city itself. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer, spring or early autumn, when temperatures range between 20 and 30°C degrees. Winters are cold and less appealing for exploring.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Osaka.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Japan.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Kobe