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Himeji and Kobe are two of Hyogo Prefecture’s most iconic tourist destinations. From the breathtaking scenery of a World Heritage Site to historic streets and unique gourmet experiences, there’s a wealth of attractions to explore.
Traveling between Himeji and Kobe is incredibly easy, taking only about 40 minutes by direct train.
Trace history, savor delicious food, and relax in stunning landscapes.
If you’re visiting the Kansai region, why not fully enjoy both Himeji and Kobe in a single day?
Here’s a highly recommended itinerary packed with must-visit spots to fulfill your travel dreams.
This luxurious trip lets you experience both stunning scenery and delicious food all in one day. Our suggested route compresses the very best of Himeji and Kobe into a single, fulfilling day.
Start your morning with Himeji’s famous “Ekisoba,” explore the majestic World Heritage Site Himeji Castle, then head to Kobe to enjoy lunch in Chinatown and stroll along the waterfront, visiting the historic foreign residences.
Cap off your day by marveling at the spectacular night view from Kikuseidai on Mt. Maya!
Your journey begins with a beloved Himeji specialty. Light and perfect for breakfast, “Maneki no Ekisoba” located at Himeji Station is highly recommended.
Although it’s technically a “stand-up soba shop at the station,” its unique combination of thin Chinese-style noodles with a fragrant Japanese-style broth creates a one-of-a-kind dish that’s hard to find elsewhere.
The nostalgic and gentle flavors naturally lift your travel spirits.
Fun fact: Maneki no Ekisoba is so renowned in the Kansai region that it even had a booth at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo!
| Name | Maneki no Ekisoba |
|---|---|
| Hours | Station concourse 11:00 am–8:00 pm Local line platform 6:00 am– |
| Closed | Open year - round |
| Location | Inside Himeji Station and on the platforms |
| Official Website | https://www.maneki - co.com/products/ekisoba/ |
| @maneki_1888 |
Read more about Maneki no Ekisoba
Himeji Castle, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is affectionately known as “Shirasagijo” (White Heron Castle) for its brilliant white plastered walls.
The castle towers and turrets, preserved over 400 years, resemble a graceful heron poised for flight. The imposing main keep, intricate passageways designed for defense, and the meticulously stacked stone walls all captivate visitors.
More than just beautiful, Himeji Castle is filled with ingenious defensive features, offering a glimpse into Japan’s strategic castle architecture. Take your time walking through and experience its history and beauty firsthand.
| Name | Himeji Castle (a.k.a. Shirasagijo) |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9:00 am–5:00 pm |
| Closed | December 29–30 |
| Location | 68 Honmachi, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Official Website | https://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/castle/ |
| @himejicastle_operations_office |
Read more about Himeji Castle
Nankinmachi is one of Japan’s three major Chinatowns, located in the heart of Kobe. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you’ll be enticed by the mouthwatering aromas wafting from various food stalls.
From juicy xiaolongbao and fluffy pork buns to crispy sesame balls, you can sample authentic Chinese flavors on the go. If you prefer a more relaxed meal, dining at a long-established Chinese restaurant is also a great choice.
This area offers the perfect blend of gourmet delights and exotic atmosphere.
| Name | Nankinmachi |
|---|---|
| Hours | Varies by shop |
| Closed | Varies by shop |
| Location | 1 - 3-18 Sakaemachi - dori, Chuo - ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Official Website | https://www.nankinmachi.or.jp/ |
| @nankinmachi |
Read more about Nankinmachi
Located right in front of Kobe Port, Meriken Park and Harborland are open, seaside areas filled with a sense of freedom. You’ll find plenty of photogenic spots like the giant Ferris wheel at Mosaic and the newly renovated Kobe Port Tower.
Take a leisurely stroll while feeling the sea breeze and soak in the exotic, port-town atmosphere unique to Kobe.
If you’re leaning towards sightseeing, Meriken Park is your go-to. Enjoy panoramic views of Kobe from the Port Tower’s observation deck, or snap memorable photos at the “BE KOBE” monument.
On the other hand, Harborland is perfect for those wanting to enjoy shopping and cozy cafes—it’s also a famous dating spot in Kobe.
Both areas have their own charm, so feel free to spend your time according to your mood. Our recommended route is to first stroll through Meriken Park, climb the Port Tower for a panoramic view, and then head over to Harborland for shopping and café hopping. This way, you can fully enjoy the essence of Kobe.
| Name | Meriken Park |
|---|---|
| Hours | Open at all times (public park) |
| Location | 2 - 2 Hatoba - cho, Chuo - ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Official Website | https://www.kobeport - upark.jp/ |
| @kobe_u_park |
| Name | Harborland |
|---|---|
| Hours | 10:00 am–8:00 pm |
| Closed | Open year - round |
| Location | 1 - 7-2 Higashikawasakicho, Chuo - ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Official Website | https://harborland.co.jp/ |
| @kobeharborland |
Kitano Ijinkan-gai is a charming district filled with exotic streetscapes. As you walk up the slopes, you’ll encounter rows of stately Western-style houses once inhabited by foreign residents, making you feel as if you’ve traveled abroad.
Visiting popular spots like the Weathercock House and Uroko House allows you to fully appreciate the architectural beauty and the romance of history.
When you get tired from exploring, take a break at one of the atmospheric cafés. Relax and savor the feeling of being wrapped in an exotic atmosphere.
| Name | Kitano Ijinkan - gai |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9:00 am–6:00 pm (may vary by about 30 minutes depending on the facility) |
| Closed | Varies by facility |
| Location | Kitano - cho, Chuo - ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Official Website | https://www.kobeijinkan.com/ |
| @kobe_kitano |
Kikuseidai, located halfway up Mt. Maya, is one of Japan’s top three night view spots. After transferring to a ropeway and a cable car, you’ll be greeted by a dynamic night view overlooking Kobe.
Depending on the time of day, you can enjoy the city lights sparkling across the sea and the breathtaking starry sky. Especially during the “magic hour” just before sunset, the view becomes even more enchanting.
The spectacular “too beautiful to be real” nightscape spreading below will undoubtedly become one of the highlights of your trip.
| Name | Mt. Maya Kikuseidai |
|---|---|
| Location | 2 - 2 Mayasancho, Nada - ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture |
| Official Website | https://kobe - rokko.jp/nightview - 3/ |
Read more about Mt. Maya Kikuseidai
If you’re going to visit, why not make the most of the entire day enjoying both Himeji and Kobe? Here’s a recommended schedule to fully savor your trip from morning to night.
Refer to the estimated time spent at each spot and travel times to help you create your personalized itinerary!
| Time | Spot | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9:00 am | JR Himeji Station (Breakfast) | 20 minutes | Start your trip lightly with the famous "Maneki no Ekisoba" |
| 9:30 am | Himeji Castle | 60 minutes | Experience the grandeur of the dazzling white castle tower and its massive scale |
| 11:30 am | From Himeji Station to Sannomiya | 40 minutes | Comfortable direct ride on the JR Kobe Line Special Rapid Service |
| 12:10 am | JR Sannomiya Station | 15 minutes | Arrive in Kobe. Stroll through Sannomiya Center Street and walk to Nankinmachi |
| 12:25 am | Nankinmachi (Lunch) | 60 minutes | Indulge in street food like xiaolongbao and pork buns in one of Japan’s top three Chinatowns |
| 1:30 pm | Meriken Park & Harborland | 120 minutes | Walkable from Nankinmachi, enjoy panoramic views from Kobe Port Tower and the sea breeze of Kobe Port |
| 4:00 pm | Kitano Ijinkan - gai | 120 minutes | Stroll along exotic slopes and tour historic Western - style houses |
| 6:00 pm | Kikuseidai | 60 minutes | Arrive just before sunset to enjoy both the magic hour and breathtaking night views |
If you plan to follow this schedule, staying at a hotel around JR Kobe Station or near Nankinmachi will make check-in smooth and easy.
The majestic beauty of Himeji Castle, the picturesque port scenery of Kobe, exotic townscapes, and the dazzling night view from Kikuseidai.
Start your morning with the gentle flavors of Himeji’s Maneki no Ekisoba, and enjoy authentic Chinese cuisine in Kobe’s Nankinmachi.
This trip offers a luxurious experience where you can enjoy history, gourmet delights, and breathtaking views—all in just one day.
Thanks to smooth travel connections, even first-time visitors can explore without stress and make the most of their time.
Himeji and Kobe, two of Hyogo Prefecture’s most iconic destinations, each have their own unique charm waiting to be discovered. We hope this article helps make your journey truly unforgettable.
