Kobe Sightseeing Pass City Pass, valid at approximately 36 facilities in Kobe city

Must Do Experiences

• Ride the Shin-Kobe Ropeway for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and Mount Rokko.

• Explore the historic Kitano-cho district and step inside beautifully preserved foreign merchant houses.

• Discover the fascinating maritime history of the region at the Kobe Maritime Museum and Port Tower area.

• Indulge in a tasting experience or brewery tour to learn about Kobe's famous sake and craft beer culture.

Hidden Gems

• Seek out the lesser-known Sorakuen Garden, a stunning traditional Japanese landscape garden that offers a serene escape from the bustling city center.

• Visit the Kobe City Museum to see rare historical artifacts and Nanban art that highlight the city's rich international trading past.

• Use your pass to access the Kobe Animal Kingdom, an interactive indoor zoo where you can get up close with capybaras and exotic birds.

What Makes it Special

• Enjoy seamless, cashless entry across 36 diverse attractions by simply presenting your digital QR code at the ticket windows.

• Maximize your travel budget with a single 1-day pass that covers everything from cultural museums to thrilling ropeway rides.

• Experience the flexibility to curate your own itinerary, mixing historic sites, modern art galleries, and family-friendly attractions at your own pace.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Start your sightseeing early in the morning around 9:00 AM to beat the crowds at popular spots like the Kitano-cho historic houses and the Shin-Kobe Ropeway. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for walking between attractions, with cherry blossoms in April and vibrant foliage in November adding extra magic to outdoor venues.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the stunning night view of Kobe Port from the Meriken Park area or the Kobe Port Tower observation deck just after sunset when the city lights illuminate the harbor.

• When photographing the historic Western-style mansions in Kitano-cho, use the morning light to highlight the intricate architectural details without harsh shadows.

• Always check for photography restrictions inside specific museums and historic houses, as flash photography and tripods are often prohibited to preserve delicate artifacts.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When entering traditional Japanese gardens, historic homes, or certain museum exhibits included in the pass, remember to remove your shoes if prompted and speak in a quiet, respectful tone. Tipping is not practiced in Japan, so simply offer a polite bow and a sincere arigatou gozaimasu to the staff at each facility you visit.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Visit in December to experience the spectacular Kobe Luminarie, where millions of LED lights transform the city center into a breathtaking winter wonderland.

• Enjoy the Kobe Matsuri in May, featuring vibrant parades, traditional dances, and lively street food stalls around the Sannomiya and Motomachi areas.

• Experience the magical Kobe Port Tower fireworks and summer night illuminations along the Meriken Park waterfront during the peak July and August season.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Stay hydrated and wear comfortable walking shoes, as exploring Kobe involves navigating hilly terrain, especially when visiting the elevated Kitano-cho and Nunobiki areas.

• Keep your personal belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings when walking through busy tourist hubs like Sannomiya and Harborland.

• Familiarize yourself with the locations of the nearest train stations and emergency exits at each facility, as Japan is prone to occasional minor earthquakes.