To Do in Kobe and Hyogo: 7 Must-See Spots

The Nunobiki Falls are a series of four waterfalls located just behind Shin-Kobe Station, making them one of Japan’s most easily accessible natural attractions. Surrounded by lush forest, the waterfalls have been celebrated in Japanese literature and art for centuries.

Hours: Open year-round, 24 hours
Admission: Free
Contact: Kobe Tourism Office, +81-78-303-1010
How to Get There: A 15-minute walk from Shin-Kobe Station (on the Shinkansen line) takes visitors to the base of the waterfalls.

Perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers, the falls are also near the Nunobiki Herb Garden, which can be reached via the Shin-Kobe Ropeway.

The Kitano Ijinkan district is a historic area filled with Western-style houses built in the late 19th century when Kobe opened as a port city. Each residence has unique architecture and exhibits, including European, Chinese, and Middle Eastern influences.

Hours: Typically 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (hours vary by house)
Admission: Around ¥500–¥700 per house, or combo tickets available
Contact: Kobe City Tourism, +81-78-303-0090
How to Get There: From Sannomiya Station, it’s a 10–15 minute walk uphill.

This district is best for history buffs and travelers curious about Kobe’s international heritage. Cafes, boutiques, and museums make it a pleasant area for a half-day stroll.

Website： https://www.kobeijinkan.com/en/

Known as the White Heron Castle, Himeji Castle is Japan’s most famous and best-preserved samurai castle. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it boasts towering white walls, multiple baileys, and defensive gates that showcase traditional Japanese castle design.

Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last entry 4:00 PM), extended hours in summer
Admission: ¥1,000 adults / ¥300 children
Contact: +81-79-285-1146
How to Get There: 15-minute walk from JR Himeji Station (accessible by Shinkansen from Osaka or Kobe in under 1 hour).

Himeji Castle is a must-see for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone wanting to experience one of the top cultural landmarks in Japan.

Website： https://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/castle/index.html

The charming town of Kinosaki Onsen is one of Japan’s most famous hot spring destinations. Visitors can stay in traditional ryokan inns and stroll through the town wearing yukata robes while visiting seven different public bathhouses.

Hours: Bathhouses typically open 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM (varies by location)
Admission: ¥800–¥1,000 per bathhouse, or a day pass for ¥1,300
Contact: Kinosaki Onsen Tourist Association, +81-796-32-3663
How to Get There: About 2.5 hours from Osaka or Kyoto via limited express train to Kinosaki Onsen Station.

This destination is best for couples, families, and anyone wanting to enjoy a classic Japanese onsen experience.

The Takarazuka Revue, an all-female musical theater troupe, performs at the Takarazuka Grand Theater. Their Broadway-style shows include adaptations of Western classics and original Japanese productions, attracting fans from all over Japan.

Hours: Performances usually start at 11:00 AM or 3:00 PM (check schedule)

Admission: ¥3,500–¥12,000 depending on seating

Contact: +81-570-00-5100 (Takarazuka Ticket Center)

How to Get There: 10-minute walk from Takarazuka Station (served by JR and Hankyu lines).

This is a must for theater lovers, pop culture fans, and visitors looking for a unique cultural experience in Hyogo.

Website： https://kageki.hankyu.co.jp/english/index.html

Designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando, Awaji Yumebutai is a modern complex featuring terraced flower gardens, a conference center, and the Hyakudan-en garden with 100 landscaped flower beds. Built on land once devastated by industrial quarrying, it symbolizes rebirth and environmental harmony.

Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (varies by facility)
Admission: Free for most areas; small fees for certain exhibitions
Contact: +81-799-74-1000
How to Get There: From Sannomiya Station (Kobe), take a bus to Awaji Yumebutai (about 1 hour).

This site appeals to architecture lovers, photographers, and travelers interested in modern Japanese design and gardens.

Website： https://www.yumebutai.co.jp/

Nicknamed the “Castle in the Sky”, the Takeda Castle Ruins sit atop a mountain in northern Hyogo. On misty mornings in autumn, the ruins appear to float on a sea of clouds, making it one of Japan’s most enchanting views.

Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by season)
Admission: ¥500 adults / Free for children under 15
Contact: Asago City Tourism Association, +81-79-672-4003
How to Get There: From Takeda Station (JR Bantan Line), it’s about a 40-minute hike uphill or a shuttle bus (seasonal).

Best for hikers, history lovers, and photographers, the ruins offer an unforgettable hidden gem in Hyogo Prefecture.

Kobe and Hyogo offer far more than meets the eye. From castles to hot springs to stunning architecture, this region is packed with lesser-known treasures waiting to be discovered. For travelers looking to go beyond the typical tourist route, this area offers a perfect blend of comfort, culture, and scenery.