KOBE
Kobe has so many facets waiting to be enjoyed including a refined harbour area, mountains offering views of the night scenery, streets overflowing with an exotic mix of cultures, and even a storied hot springs resort.
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Kobe Oji Park Area Complete Guide | A Perfect One-Day Itinerary with Oji Zoo, Retro Shopping Street & Hot Spring
When you think of Kobe, you may picture its beautiful harbor, elegant historic streets, and chic Western-style atmosphere. But if you’d like to experience local Japan away from the typical tourist attractions, the Oji Park area is the perfect place to visit. In this guide, we’ll introduce a one-day itinerary where you can experience the best of everyday local life and culture—from meeting adorable animals at the zoo and exploring a nostalgic shopping street frequented by local residents to relaxing in a natural hot spring and soothing your travel-weary body. Index 1. What Is the Oji Park Area Like? 2. Spend the Morning for Adorable Animals at Oji Zoo 3. Explore the Local Suido-suji Shopping Street in the Afternoon 4. [Retro Cafe] Café Donie for Lunch 5. For Drinks Lovers: Enjoy a Drink Along the Shopping Street ① [Japanese Sake] Standing Bar Wa-in ② [Craft Beer] Brasserie a Route 6. End Your Day with a Relaxing Soak in Natural Hot Springs at Nada Onsen Suido-suji 7. A Bonus Spot If You Have Time: Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art Located just about 5 minutes by train from Sannomiya, Kobe’s central district, the area around Oji Park is a peaceful, leafy residential neighborhood set against the backdrop of Mount Rokko. It’s an ideal area for travelers who want to escape the crowds of major tourist attractions, mingle with locals, enjoy delicious food, and experience authentic everyday Japanese life and culture. Access: Just steps from Oji-koen Station on the Hankyu Kobe Line. Start your day at Kobe Oji Zoo, located just a short walk from the station. Spread across a spacious site, this popular zoo is home to a wide variety of animals. At Oji Zoo, you can meet around 120 species, including Asian elephants, giraffes, polar bears, and penguins. There is also a petting area where you can interact with adorable animals such as rabbits and guinea pigs, as well as an educational museum where you can learn about animal behavior and how they are cared for, making it a great place to spend a few hours. One of the biggest highlights at Oji Zoo is the koala. A baby koala was born in December 2025 and is growing healthy under the watchful eyes of its family and keepers. If you’re visiting the koala area, aim for the feeding time from 1:00 p.m. You may even get the chance to see a koala making a rare jump! The zoo is also home to some unusual animals, including the bobcat, a member of the lynx family that can only be seen at Oji Zoo in Japan, as well as the Tibetan brown bear, a relatively small species of bear. Another fun feature is the retro amusement park within the zoo grounds, which makes a great backdrop for nostalgic photos. If you’re visiting in spring (late March to early April), don’t miss the approximately 480 cherry trees blooming throughout the zoo. Evening illumination events are also held during the cherry blossom season, offering a magical way to experience the beauty of spring in Japan. After exploring the zoo, head to Suido-suji Shopping Street, just a few minutes away on foot. With a history spanning more than 100 years since the Taisho era (1912–1926), this lively shopping street retains the nostalgic atmosphere of old Japan. It was named “Suido-suji” because a water supply pipe runs beneath the shopping street. Stretching for about 500 meters, the covered arcade is lined with around 120 independent shops, including greengrocers, fishmongers, daily goods stores, and delicatessens that cater to the everyday needs of local residents. From the cheerful calls of shopkeepers to locals chatting as they shop with bags in hand, you’ll get a glimpse of authentic everyday life in Japan that you won’t find in a typical guidebook. As you explore the shopping street, it’s time to stop for lunch. Here, we’ll introduce a popular Japanese cafe on Suido-suji Shopping Street. Unlike chain coffee shops, kissaten are traditional Japanese cafés that have developed their own unique style and culture over the years. Located along Suido-suji Shopping Street, Café Donie is a charming kissaten with a long history, having first opened in 1945. Step inside, and you’ll feel as though you’ve traveled back to nostalgic Japan. Beautiful vintage-style interiors and a warm, wood-accented atmosphere create a wonderfully relaxing space. Savoring a cup of siphon-brewed coffee, carefully prepared one cup at a time, is a special experience in this dreamy setting. Be sure to try some classic dishes and desserts that are uniquely associated with Japanese kissaten, such as Napolitan spaghetti, a Japanese-style pasta dish, and purin à la mode, an artistic dessert featuring pudding beautifully arranged with fruit and whipped cream. As the sun begins to set, head to one of the unique bars along Suido-suji Shopping Street for a drink in a relaxed, local atmosphere. Japan has a unique bar culture called tachinomi, where people enjoy drinks while standing at a counter rather than sitting at a table. Embracing this traditional style, Wa-in is a stylish standing bar where you can casually enjoy a wide selection of Japanese sake paired with authentic Japanese tapas. The owner’s passion for sake can be felt throughout the bar, from tables made from sake barrels to the tradition of opening a new sake bottle on the first day of every month. One of the best things about the standing-bar style is the opportunity to casually chat with people nearby while enjoying a glass of sake. It’s a wonderful way to experience the kind of spontaneous, friendly interaction with local residents that you can only find in a neighborhood bar. At Brasserie a Route, you can enjoy a variety of craft beers brewed with spring water from Mount Maya in Kobe. The bar’s original beers are brewed in an on-site brewery built inside what was once a clothing store, giving the space a unique local character. One of the best things about Brasserie a Route is its relaxed approach to food: you’re welcome to bring in food purchased from independent shops along Suido-suji Shopping Street and enjoy it with your beer. Pick up some deli dishes from a local fishmonger or a freshly fried croquette from a butcher, then pair them with a craft beer you can only enjoy here. It’s a wonderfully authentic way to experience the community spirit of the shopping street, one drink and one local bite at a time. Finally, wrap up your day at Nada Onsen Suido-suji, a beloved hot spring known as one of Kobe’s local hidden gems and cherished by hot spring enthusiasts across Japan. Here, you can soak in a natural hot spring featuring carbonated mineral-rich water that rises from underground. The hot spring at Nada Onsen is popular as a “beauty bath” that warms you from the inside out and leaves your skin feeling smooth and refreshed. It’s also a favorite among locals, with visitors often lining up every day. The spacious far-infrared sauna and cold-water bath fed by underground water from the foothills of the Rokko Mountains are also popular features. The owner of Nada Onsen is also actively working to make the facility more welcoming to international visitors, including providing an English-language brochure explaining the facilities and how to enjoy the bath. With a warm welcome for overseas travelers who want to experience Japan’s traditional sento (public bath) culture, the facility is also family-friendly and welcomes guests with children. Why not end your day with a relaxing soak and experience a peaceful moment of local Japanese life? Please note that the English brochures are available in limited quantities. If you’re interested in art, be sure to stop by the Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art, located just a short walk from Oji-koen Station. The museum showcases the bold and psychedelic works of Tadanori Yokoo, one of Japan’s most internationally renowned graphic designers and contemporary artists. Its creative atmosphere pairs perfectly with the artistic inspiration found throughout the zoo, making it a hidden gem that’s particularly popular among art lovers from overseas. ▼Also check here▼ 10 BEST Museums and Art Galleries in Kobe The Oji Park area of Kobe offers something you simply can’t experience by visiting tourist attractions alone: a chance to connect with the warmth of local communities and get a genuine feel for everyday life in Japan. Take your time strolling through the neighborhood, soak up the atmosphere of authentic Japan, and discover some special memories of your own.
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First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course
Where is the best place to visit in Kobe? What to eat? The following is a list of major sightseeing spots and attractions recommended for first-time visitors to Kobe! -INDEX- Sightseeing Spots in Kobe 1.Ikuta Shrine 2.Kitano Ijinkan Gai 3.Kitano Tenma Shrine 4.Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway 5.Sorakuen garden 6.Nankinmachi 7.The Former Foreign Settlement Of Kobe 8.Meriken Park (BE KOBE Monument) 9.Kobe Port Tower 10.Kobe Harborland umie 11.Kobe Bay Cruise 12.AQUARIUM×ART átoa 13.Kobe Animal Kingdom 14.Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art 15.Nada Gogo 16.Mt. Rokko area 17.Arima Onsen Gourmet Spots in Kobe 18.Specialties of Kobe・Kobe Beef 19.Specialties of Kobe・Sweets 20.Specialties of Kobe・Bread 21.A specialty of Kobe: Roushouki pork buns ■Recommended Train Tickets for Exploring Kobe ■Sightseeing in Kobe by bus is also recommended ■Kobe Sightseeing 1 Day Model Course The shrine is said to have been founded in 201. Within the shrine grounds, there are various regent and subordinate shrines with various benefits, as well as power spots. The “mizu-mikuji” love fortune-telling, in which characters emerge when the fortune paper is dipped in water, is popular! The artistic paper-cutting goshuin also attracts attention. ▼Check out this article▼ 8 Must-Visit Shrines in Kobe: Perfect to Pair with Nearby Attractions Kitano Ijinkan Gai is one of Kobe’s most popular tourist spots! The town flourished as a settlement for the increasing number of foreigners who came to Japan after the opening of the Port of Kobe in 1868, and is dotted with more than 30 classical Western-style buildings, about half of which are open to the public. Kitano Tenma Shrine is located uptown in the Kitano Ijinkan Gai. It is a spot with a spectacular view of the Port of Kobe, the cityscape of Kobe, and the modern Western-style buildings of the Kitano Ijinkan-gai, and is also famous for its plum blossoms, which bloom from February to March. ▼Check out this article▼ February and March trip is plum blossom viewing! Best spots in Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe A 10-minute ropeway ride from the foot of the mountain takes you to one of the largest herb gardens in Japan, with 75,000 flowers and herbs of about 200 species. Inside the park, there are restaurants and cafes overlooking the city of Kobe, providing a resort-like atmosphere on the mountain. This is the only Japanese garden in a city park in Kobe City, and visitors can admire the garden while circling around the pond. In the modern port city of Kobe, this is a rare spot where visitors can experience a Japanese atmosphere! The scenery of azaleas in spring and autumn leaves in fall is especially worth seeing. ▼Check out this article▼ Best 15 Places to See Autumn Leaves in Japan! Nankinmachi, a Chinatown in Kobe’s Motomachi district, is one of the three major Chinatowns in Japan along with Yokohama and Nagasaki. Eating and walking is popular! There are also many events such as “Chinese New Year Festival,” “Mid-Autumn Festival,” and “Lantern Fair.” After the opening of the Port of Kobe, the Former Foreign Settlement Of Kobe was built following modern European urban planning. Today, boutiques and restaurants are housed in modern buildings, and the area is recognized as a fashionable area with an exotic atmosphere. A waterfront park facing the Port of Kobe. Dotted around the park are photogenic landmarks of Kobe, the city of the sea. One must not forget to take a photo in front of the monument “BE KOBE” when sightseeing! Why not take a walk around the area while feeling the sea breeze? The Starbucks right by the ocean is also recommended. Starbucks Coffee Kobe Meriken Park: A Store with a Stunning View of the Kobe Sea Kobe Port Tower, marked by the red lattice that symbolizes Kobe, reopened on April 26, 2024 (Friday)! In addition to the open-air rooftop deck and the Museum of Reflections of Light, a café and bar with a floor that slowly rotates 360 degrees will appear on the third floor of the observation deck. Visitors can enjoy a light meal while viewing the city of Kobe. Kobe Port Tower is located in Meriken Park. “Kobe Harborland umie” is a commercial facility facing the Port of Kobe, where visitors can enjoy local gourmet food and shopping. The landmark Giant Ferris Wheel is colorfully illuminated at night with approximately 120,000 LED lights. Animated images of Kobe, such as a weathercock and a yacht, are also projected. The view of Kobe from the sea is also spectacular! “Kobe Bay Cruise,” which has a boarding station at Meriken Park, operates a sightseeing boat that takes 45 minutes to travel around Kobe Port. The dusk, which turns into a madder shade of red, is a romantic sight. Aquarium and art fuse together! This is a new type of theater-type aquarium that stimulates the senses by adding digital art, lighting, sound effects and scents to the aquarium where sea creatures live. It is recommended to visit in the late afternoon when there are fewer visitors. A symbiotic park on Port Island where visitors can interact with flowers, animals, and people. There are indoor and outdoor areas where you can meet cute animals, mainly birds, and rare flowers. Recommended for sightseeing with children! It takes about 20 minutes from Kobe Sannomiya Station by Port Liner. ▼Check this article for more information▼ 4 Recommended Zoos to Visit in Kobe The museum was designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando. Visitors can experience the calculated architectural beauty of a huge labyrinth, such as the “Circular Terrace”, a beautiful spiral of cast concrete, and the glass-walled corridors surrounding the exhibition rooms. ▼Check out this article▼ Tadao Ando Buildings You Should Visit in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe 10 BEST Museums and Art Galleries in Kobe Nada Gogo is the name of one of Japan’s most famous sake brewing areas, consisting of Nishi-go, Mikage-go, and Uozaki-go, located in Kobe City, and Nishinomiya-go and Imazu-go, located in Nishinomiya City. Visitors can tour the museum, taste and purchase valuable sake, making it a popular destination for visitors to Japan. ▼Check out this article▼ Gourmet trip to enjoy sake by Hanshin Railway ▼Check here for access to each sake brewery! Rokko, close to the city center, is a sightseeing and experience area with a “ten million dollar night view,” an observatory where you can take photogenic photos, and adventure athletic facilities. In particular, the “Kobe Rokko Meets Art” held every year from September to November is a must-see. This popular event blends nature and contemporary art in harmony. ▼Check out this article▼ Rokko Tourist Guide Arima Onsen, one of the three best hot springs in Japan, is a must-visit tourist spot! You can stay at a ryokan of your dreams or enjoy it as a day trip from Kobe Sannomiya. Enjoy the elegant streets of the hot spring resort, the gold and silver spring with their characteristic spring water qualities, and the gourmet food in the hot spring resort. It is also possible to take a ropeway from the top of Mt. Express buses are convenient from Osaka. ▼Check out this article▼ Arima Onsen-1 Day Trip|Enjoy Hot Springs, Gourmet, and Nature! The 10 best food and sweets in Arima Onsen Town How to Get to Arima Onsen from Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe – A Complete Transportation Guide ▼Check out discounted tickets▼ “Arima Onsen Taiko no Yu” Day Trip Bathing Plan Kobe beef is one of the most popular gourmet foods in Kobe! Many people want to enjoy its fine grain, sweetness, and aroma. “kisshokichi-honten” specializes in Kobe beef that has passed a strict screening process. Web reservations in English and Chinese are also available. Kobe was one of the first cities in Kansai to adopt Western culture, and has a thriving confectionery culture, including cakes, chocolates, baked goods, and gaufres. Afternoon tea can be enjoyed at the popular PATISSERIE TOOTH TOOTH main store cafe. Sweets in unique packages are recommended as souvenirs. Like sweets, Kobe also has a well-established bread culture. The long-established Isuzu Bakery was established in 1946 and offers 180-190 varieties of bread every day. ▼Check this article for more information▼ 6 Must-Try Breads in Japan & Kansai “Roushouki” is a long-established Chinese restaurant located in front of the Nanjing Town Square and has been a favorite for over 100 years. The line outside the restaurant is made up of people who want to try the famous “pork buns”. The freshly made pork buns are the perfect accompaniment to your meal. There are also many other gourmet foods loved in Kobe, such as Western cuisine, gyoza, and bokkake yakisoba. For more information, check out the article below! 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals The Hanshin 24-Hour Pass is our top recommendation for exploring Kobe. ▼Please check this article for more details▼ Kobe Airport Access Guide: 2-Day, 1-Night Itinerary with Hanshin 24-Hour Pass Kobe’s major tourist attractions are compactly located, but the city has many hills due to its location between the mountains and the sea. If you are worried about getting around on foot or are tired on the way, we recommend using the City Loop Bus. ▶Click here for the official website. We have prepared a recommended model course for those who wish to enjoy the attractions of Kobe in one day. Please see the article below. Kobe-1 Day Trip|Enjoy the fashionable port city, Kobe Kobe has developed a different culture from Osaka and Kyoto, even in the same Kansai region. Please enjoy the scenery of this high-carat port town.
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Curious George × HANKYU Collaboration: Ride the Special Train, Shop Exclusive Goods, and Enjoy Limited-Edition Food
To celebrate the 85th anniversary of Curious George in 2026, the beloved little monkey is teaming up with HANKYU for a special collaboration! From a Curious George-themed wrapped train to exclusive merchandise and limited-edition food and drinks, there’s plenty to enjoy throughout the campaign. If you’re visiting Osaka, Kyoto, or Kobe during the event period, don’t miss this adorable collaboration! Index 1. Ride the Curious George Train through Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe 2. Exclusive merchandise featuring George in HANKYU’s signature maroon railway uniform 3. Cute and delicious! Curious George × HANKYU collaboration food & drinks 4. George pops up at Hankyu Sanbangai, NU Chayamachi, and more, plus a joint stamp rally The Curious George × HANKYU collaboration runs from July 31, 2026 (Fri.) to February 17, 2027 (Wed.). The highlight of the campaign is undoubtedly the Curious George Train. One train on each of HANKYU’s three main lines—the Kobe Line (Osaka-umeda ↔ Kobe-sannomiya), Kyoto Line (Osaka-umeda ↔ Kyoto-kawaramachi), and Takarazuka Line (Osaka-umeda ↔ Takarazuka)—has been completely transformed with Curious George-themed decorations. Each train features an exclusive exterior design inspired by landmarks along its route. You may spot familiar sights such as Kobe Port Tower and the zoo on the Kobe Line, the Takarazuka Grand Theater and Minoh Falls on the Takarazuka Line, or torii gates and matcha motifs on the Kyoto Line. The Curious George Train also carries a special commemorative headmark, while a Curious George plush dressed in HANKYU’s signature maroon railway uniform accompanies the train from the crew’s cabin. Inside the train, every corner is filled with the world of Curious George. Be sure to look for the themed stickers on the doors and windows—each railway line has its own exclusive designs. Even the hand straps and hanging advertisements have been transformed into Curious George decorations! A wide range of exclusive collaboration merchandise is also available, including plush toys, lunch tote bags, acrylic cups, pin badges, and more, all featuring George dressed in HANKYU’s iconic maroon railway uniform. The collection includes 24 charming items you’ll want to use every day. ■Release Date: From August 26 (release dates vary by retailer) Available at: Selected Lawson stores along the Hankyu Hanshin railway network, Color Field cosmetic and lifestyle stores (all locations), Cleduple, selected Kiddy Land stores, and other participating retailers. *Please note that all merchandise is available while supplies last. The Curious George × HANKYU collection, along with other official HANKYU railway merchandise, is also available through the HANKYU DENSHA SHOP online store. Looking for a unique souvenir? From August 4 to November 9, 2026, limited-edition collaboration food items will be available at shops located inside and around HANKYU stations. *Please note that sales periods vary by store. At Freds Cafe (located at Osaka-umeda Station, Nishinomiya-kitaguchi Station, and other locations), you’ll find two specially packaged flavored teas: Tropical Fruit and Chocolate Banana. At A la Campagne, available at stations including Nishinomiya-kitaguchi, the collaboration features a banana-flavored madeleine created especially for the event. Meanwhile, Tully’s Coffee stores at Osaka-umeda Station, Nishinomiya-kitaguchi Station, and other locations are serving fluffy baked cakes printed with an adorable image of George. They’re topped with banana jam—George’s favorite—and whipped cream drizzled with chocolate sauce. You’ll also find Curious George × HANKYU original-label bottled drinks in vending machines at Osaka-umeda Station, Nishinomiya-Kitaguchi Station, and other stations. The labels can be carefully peeled off and used as stickers, making them a fun keepsake. There are 13 different label designs, so you’ll never know which one you’ll get! ▶ Click here for collaboration food sales shops and periods. Starting August 18, 2026, participating commercial facilities—including Hankyu Sanbangai, NU Chayamachi, NU Chayamachi Plus, Grand Front Osaka Shops & Restaurants, and Hankyu Nishinomiya Gardens—will host a series of special events under the theme “Let’s Go! George’s Exciting Adventure Team.” *Event dates vary by venue. At Hankyu Sanbangai, visitors can enjoy themed photo spots. In addition, customers who spend ¥1,000 (tax included) or more at participating UMEDA FOOD HALL restaurants will receive either an original coaster or an original placemat, depending on the campaign period. ▶ For details of commercial facilities check here Visitors can also join a joint stamp rally by collecting stamps at all six stamp locations across Hankyu Sanbangai, NU Chayamachi, and NU Chayamachi Plus. Complete the rally to receive an exclusive original clear file. ▶ For details of the Hankyu Sanbangai × NU Chayamachi Joint Stamp Rally check here Step into the delightful world of Curious George through themed trains, exclusive food, special events, and unique shopping experiences. © & ® UCS LLC and HC LLC ©Hankyu Corp.
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7 recommended Beer Gardens in Kyoto, Kobe and Osaka
Japan may not see eating and drinking outdoors as common sense, but a special event held limitedly in summer called BEER GARDEN is very popular among Japanese. Let’s go see and experience this unique beer garden culture and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere when visiting Japan! *Picture is for illustration purposes only. -INDEX- 【Kyoto】Hyssop Nature Beer Terrace(In GOOD NATURE STATION) 【Kyoto】Mar Cafe 【Osaka】BEER GARDEN ROOFTOP | Hotel New Hankyu Osaka 【Osaka】Umeda Hankyu Beer Garden 【Osaka】GRAND FRONT OSAKA「Otona no Beer Garden」 【Kobe】TOOTH TOOTH MART FOOD HALL&NIGHT FES「UMI NO BEER GARDEN 2026」 【Kobe】THE KOBE CRUISE Concerto「Beer Garden Cruise」 Enjoy the summer tradition at a Japanese-style beer garden! Period: Until September 30, 2026 (Wed) Hyssop is located in GOOD NATURE STATION, a facility that is full of healthy eating-themed restaurants. You can forget about the hustle and bustle of the city and relax on the comfortable terrace seats with an atrium filled with greenery. The summer “Nature Beer Terrace Plan” is designed around the theme of “a slightly indulgent beer terrace experience right in the heart of the city,” allowing you to fully enjoy not only beer but also our carefully curated meals. Includes 90 minutes of all-you-can-drink draft beer, beer cocktails, wine, and soft drinks. Price/ 5,500 per person Opening Hours/ 17:30~21:00 (Last entry at 20:00) *Seat is booked for 2 hours; all-you-can-drink plan for 90 minutes *Possible to be seated indoors due to weather condition *Reservations must be made by 5:00 PM the day before; reservations are available for groups of two or more. Period: Until September 30, 2026 (Wed) Mar Cafe offers a BBQ-style beer garden overlooking Higashiyama area, located on the 8th floor of the building near Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Although it is close to the main sightseeing spots in Kyoto, Mar Cafe gives you a comparatively quiet and calm atmosphere. The menu features all-you-can-eat special house-made curry and four types of meat (beef, pork, chicken, and lamb) marinated in our homemade sauce, plus all-you-can-drink beverages! Price/ 5,500 per person Opening Hours/ 11:30~23:00 *Seat is booked for 2 hours; all-you-can-drink plan for 90 minutes *Reservation is required by the day before dining (Price at 6,600 without reservation) *Available on rainy days (with tent), but maybe seated indoors due to typhoon or storm Period: Until September 12(Sat), 2026 Directly connected to Hankyu Osaka Umeda Station! A long-time favorite in Umeda, this beer garden offers unlimited food and drinks with no time limit. The food is all-you-can-eat, and there are over 70 types of drinks included in the all-you-can-drink plan. With 8 brands from 3 different breweries available, why not try comparing beers from Japan’s famous Suntory, Kirin, and Asahi?From Sunday through Tuesday, you can enjoy all-you-can-drink service on two types of craft beer. Price/ Monday–Thursday and Sunday: 5,800 yen; Friday and Saturday, July 19, and August 9: 6,000 yen Opening Hours/ 17:30~21:00 *No limited time *Possible without reservations (may not be available for private events or depending on availability) *Possible to be canceled due to weather condition *You cannot access the rooftop except via the dedicated elevator on the first floor. Period: Until October 12(Mon), 2026 Located in the biggest department store in western Japan, Umeda Hankyu Beer Garden is the best place to go after shopping. The 2026 Umeda Hankyu Beer Garden is themed “A Rooftop Beer Garden Journey Through Flavors,” where you can enjoy “three journeys” with limited-time themes that take you to Asia, the Americas, and Europe. The beer garden at the Hankyu Umeda Main Store is popular for its stylish atmosphere! It also boasts an overwhelming variety of drinks, with an all-you-can-drink selection of 120 different types! The all-you-can-drink lineup includes two of Asahi’s flagship beers, as well as a wide range of highballs, non-alcoholic beverages, and low-alcohol options. The food menu features an all-you-can-eat selection of about 30 items, including deli dishes, salads, curry, and pizza! Price/ 4,800~ (depends on the menu plan) Opening Hours/ Monday ~ Friday: 17:00~22:30 (Weekends, Holidays, August 10~18th: 16:00~ *Last entry at 20:30) *Seat is booked for 2 hours; all-you-can-drink plan for 90 minutes *Possible without reservations (may not be available depending on availability) *Possible to be canceled due to weather condition ▼Check this article▼ For Visitors to Japan. Highlights of the Hankyu Department Store Umeda Main Store! Period: Until September 30(Mon), 2026 If you are looking for a beer garden where it is less crowded and more calm, we recommend 「Otona no Beer Garden」in Grand Front Osaka. The venue is the rooftop garden of the Grand Front Osaka South Building. The terrace surrounded by greenery is like an oasis in the city where you can forget the hustle and bustle. Space between tables is wide enough for you to relax while enjoying beer or cocktails. The beer garden package includes an all-you-can-drink selection of approximately 40 beverages, including draft beer, along with a set of food items that pair well with drinks, such as grilled chicken, grilled pork shoulder, grilled vegetables, and French fries. À la carte dishes are also available for separate ordering. Price/ 6,800 per person (Depends on the plan) Opening Hours/ 17:30~22:00 (Last entry at 20:30 and last order for drinks at 21:30) *Seat is booked for 2 hours; all-you-can-drink plan for 90 minutes *Possible without reservations (may not be available depending on availability) *Possible to be canceled due to weather condition ▼Check this article▼ A Guide to GRAND FRONT OSAKA SHOPS&RESTAURANTS: Access, Must-Try Food & Recommended Shops Period: Until October 31(Sat), 2026 TOOTH TOOTH MART FOOD HALL, Kobe’s biggest food hall, is close to the famous Kobe Meriken Park. The biggest draw is the two different styles to suit your occasion. On the terrace, you can enjoy a barbecue in a prime location where you can feel the sea breeze while taking in views of the Kobe Port Tower, the setting sun, and the gradations of color in the sky. Inside, the spacious dining area lets you relax and enjoy the beer garden while gazing at the massive tanks of the theater-style aquarium, átoa. The Terrace BBQ Plan features all-you-can-eat meat selections such as jerk chicken, San-gen pork, and smoked sausages. Plus, you get all-you-can-drink access to about 50 types of beverages. The plan includes a 1,000-yen meal voucher redeemable at the Food Hall, so you can order additional dishes of your choice. There’s also a special plan that includes Hyogo Prefecture-produced sirloin. The food hall features a selection of foods unique to Kobe—such as Kobe pork, Rokko Beer, and Nada sake—so you can fully enjoy everything Kobe has to offer! Price/ 5,500 with all-you-can-drink plan; 3,500 for food only plan Opening Hours/ 11:00~22:00 (Last entry at 20:00) *Seat is booked for 2 hours *Reservation is required *Terrace seats are not available during rainy day ▼Check this article▼ First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course Period: Until September 30(Mon), 2026 THE KOBE CRUISE Concerto, just as the name says, is a beer garden cruise where you can enjoy a cruise tour while having delicious food and fresh beer. A beer garden cruise where you can enjoy a meal will be held. Cruises are available during lunch, twilight, and night hours (schedules vary by day of the week). From the 74-meter-long ship, you can enjoy beautiful views of Kobe, including the setting sun and the city’s sparkling nightscape. This is a special experience unique to Kobe that you can’t find in Osaka or Kyoto. Price/ Beer Garden on Board: 5,280 yen per person (all-you-can-eat beer-themed cuisine + all-you-can-drink + boarding fee); Summer Buffet: 8,800 yen per person (buffet + all-you-can-drink + boarding fee) Opening Hours/ Beer Garden on Board: Weekdays (Mon–Thu + Sunday evenings) Twilight Cruise 5:00 PM–6:45 PM, Night Cruise 7:15 PM–9:00 PM; Summer Buffet: Lunch Cruise 12:30 PM–2:15 PM (Sat, Sun, holidays + select dates), Twilight Cruise 5:00 PM–6:45 PM, Night Cruise 7:15 PM–9:00 PM (Fri–Sat and select dates) *Reservation is required (+81 50-5050-0962<10:00〜19:00>) *Possible to be canceled due to weather condition *This service may not be available depending on special flights or seat availability. Beer Garden is usually an outdoor space to enjoy alcohol, mainly beer, together with finger foods. In Japan, it has been held as a summer limited event on the rooftops of large department stores and commercial facilities in the city. Among an open space decorated with beautiful LED string lights, imagine how relaxing it is to have some fresh beer and flavorful nibbles with close friends or coworkers after a whole day’ s work. Come and enjoy the entertaining beer garden culture in Japan!
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Kobe Airport Access Guide: 2-Day, 1-Night Itinerary with Hanshin 24-Hour Pass
Just landed at Kobe Airport? Maximize your Japan trip with the newly launched Port Liner & Hanshin 24-Hour Pass—the ultimate budget-friendly ticket offering unlimited rides on both the Port Liner from the airport and the Hanshin Railway! This comprehensive guide covers everything from how to buy and use the pass, to a perfect 2-day, 1-night itinerary that seamlessly connects the historic streets of Kobe and the vibrant energy of Osaka. Grab your pass and unlock two iconic cities with zero transport stress! Index 1. What is the Hanshin 24-Hour Pass? 2. How to Purchase the Hanshin 24-Hour Pass 3. How to Use the Hanshin 24-Hour Pass 4. A 2-Day, 1-Night Model Itinerary from Kobe Airport Using the Hanshin 24-Hour Pass The “Hanshin 24-Hour Pass” gives you 24-hour unlimited access to all Hanshin Lines (except the Kobe Kosoku Line), with three types to choose from depending on your travel needs. It perfectly covers Osaka’s top two districts, Umeda and Namba, as well as the Kobe-Sannomiya area and Kobe Airport. It is the ultimate choice for smart travelers who want to hop between Osaka and Kobe efficiently and maximize their time. 1. Hanshin 24-Hour Pass Valid Area: Between Kobe-Sannomiya / Motomachi and Osaka-Umeda and Osaka-Namba Price: ¥1,200 (Adult) 2. Port Liner & Hanshin 24-Hour Pass Valid Area: Between Kobe-Sannomiya / Motomachi and Osaka-Umeda / Osaka-Namba, plus unlimited rides on the entire Port Liner line. Price: ¥1,500 (Adult) 3. Hanshin 1-day Pass Rokko Mountain Set Valid Area: Between Kobe-Sannomiya / Motomachi and Osaka-Umeda / Osaka-Namba on the Hanshin Railway network, plus unlimited rides on Kobe City Bus Route 16, and the Higashi Rokko Excursion Ticket (round-trip on the Rokko Cable Car and unlimited rides on the mountain bus Route 1) Price: ¥3,960 (Adult) The Hanshin 24-Hour Pass needs to be purchased online in advance. As it is issued as a digital ticket, it cannot be purchased directly at ticket counters of Kobe Airport or railway stations. ・Date Selection: Not required ・Validity Period: Valid for use within three months from the date of purchase Note: For passes purchased on or after January 2, 2027, the expiration date will be March 31, 2027. Since there is no need to select a travel date when purchasing, you can buy the pass in advance even if your itinerary has not been finalized, making it a convenient option for flexible travel plans. Using the Hanshin 24-Hour Pass is extremely simple. The pass is completely ticketless and uses a QR code system, allowing you to enter and exit stations by simply displaying the QR code on your smartphone and scanning it at the ticket gate. Arrive at Kobe Airport around noon, and seamlessly transition to exploring both Kobe and Osaka with just a single pass! This recommended itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors to fully experience the best of both cities without any hassle. <Day 1> Around Noon – Arrive at Kobe Airport Welcome to Kobe! After a long journey, why not take a moment to relax before heading into the city? On a clear day, the observation deck at Kobe Airport is well worth a visit. From here, you can enjoy views of the surrounding area and even spot the airport’s distinctive giant broccoli-shaped sculpture, a unique and fun photo opportunity. ▼For more details▼ [2026] Top 12 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kobe for Parents and Children to Enjoy! Once you’re ready, it’s time to head toward central Kobe and begin your adventure. ↓ Lunch – Savor World-Famous Kobe Beef in Sannomiya You can’t leave Kobe without trying the world-famous Kobe Beef! Treat yourself to a luxurious lunch that is a must on every foodie’s bucket list. Opting for a lunch menu is the perfect way to experience this premium, melt-in-your-mouth wagyu at a more reasonable price. ▼What to eat in Kobe▼ 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals ▼Transportation Guide of Kobe-Sannomiya Station▼ Kobe-Sannomiya Station Guide: Navigating JR, Hankyu, Hanshin, Subway and Other Lines ↓ Afternoon – Explore Kobe’s Bay Area One of the best places to experience the unique atmosphere of Kobe as a port city is the Kobe Bay Area. From Motomachi Station, the area can be reached in about 20 minutes on foot, or by using the City Loop Bus, offering unlimited rides for ¥800 per day. The following four attractions are among the most popular and iconic spots in the Kobe Bay Area and should not be missed: ・Meriken Park – Home to the famous BE KOBE Monument ・Kobe Port Tower – A landmark observation tower offering panoramic views ・Kobe Harborland umie – A large waterfront shopping and dining complex ・Kobe Bay Cruise – Enjoy spectacular views of the port city from a sightseeing cruise ▼Other Kobe Sightseeing Info▼ [2026] Top 12 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kobe for Parents and Children to Enjoy! ↓ Evening – Head to Osaka Umeda for Dinner and Shopping In the evening, travel to the Osaka Umeda area, the largest entertainment and commercial district in western Japan. Enjoy a delicious dinner and make the most of the area’s extensive shopping opportunities before ending your day. ▼Osaka-Umeda Restaurant Recommendation▼ [2026] Best 11 Food in Osaka Umeda: From the Newest Restaurants to Classic Japanese Cuisine ▼Shopping in Umeda▼ Hanshin Umeda Main Store: A Foodie Paradise with Tax-Free Shopping and Exclusive Finds ▼What to do at night in Osaka-Umeda▼ 7 Osaka Umeda Night Activities. Enjoy the night in the city with bars, cafes and night views! You can also travel from Umeda to Namba and enjoy an exciting sumo-themed performance at THE SUMO HALL HIRAKUZA OSAKA. The dynamic show offers a thrilling introduction to Japan’s national sport and makes for a memorable evening experience. <Day 2> Explore the Nishinomiya Area On Day 2, consider stopping by the Nishinomiya area, located between Osaka Umeda and Kobe Airport. Known for its historic sake breweries and local charm, Nishinomiya is a hidden gem where you can discover a different side of the region away from the major tourist crowds. ▼For more details▼ Nishinomiya 1 Day Itinerary|Savor Sake in Nadagogo and Explore Hanshin Koshien Stadium How did you like it? With the newly introduced Hanshin 24-Hour Pass, you can explore some of the most attractive destinations in the Kansai region conveniently and affordably. Make the most of this handy pass and create unforgettable memories during your trip to Japan!
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