Osaka: Kobe Port, Mosaic Ferris Wheel, Kitano Inhabitant's Hall Street, Arima Onsen, Rokko Mountain Night View 1-Day Tour

Osaka-Kobe-Mosaic Ferris Wheel- Kitano Ijinkan Street-Arima Onsen-Mount Rokko-Return

Mosaic Big Ferris Wheel

Kobe Kitanno Ijinkango

Winter Time: 10:30 / Summer Time: 11:30 — Osaka

Start your beautiful journey today!

Please note that departure times may change depending on sunset times during different seasons.

Winter Time (Nov 16 – Mar 31):

Pick-up/Drop-off/Transfer Package: 10:30 at Nipponbashi Exit 2 (Namba/Shinsaibashi area).

Summer Time (Apr 01 – Nov 15):

Pick-up/Drop-off/Transfer Package: 11:30 at Nipponbashi Exit 2 (Namba/Shinsaibashi area).

Note: The entire schedule will be delayed by 1 hour.

Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off/Transfer Package: 09:30 – 11:30

※ Please be punctual. We recommend arriving at the meeting point 10 minutes prior to departure. Late arrivals cannot be accommodated.

Winter Time: 11:30 / Summer Time: 12:30 — Kobe

Arima Onsen (Approx. 2.5 hours, free time available)

Arima Onsen is one of Japan's three oldest hot spring towns, with a history dating back over a thousand years. Loved since ancient times for its favorable environment, the area features a nostalgic streetscape lined with traditional ryokans, souvenir shops, and temples. Walking through these charming streets feels like stepping into a secluded paradise steeped in history. Steam rises continuously from the ground, marking various types of hot springs, and you can enjoy local delicacies in the bustling town. Beyond strolling through the old streets, experiencing the baths is a must. The most famous public baths are "Kinsen" (Gold Spring) and "Ginsen" (Silver Spring), along with various themed large baths offering diverse hot spring experiences.

Recommendation for Day-Trip Onsen: If Taiko-no-Yu is closed, we will visit another local day-trip onsen (e.g., Kinsen or Ginsen).

Taiko-no-Yu

Address: 292-2 Ikenojiri, Arimacho, Kita-ku, Kobe City

Spanning approximately 7,000 square meters, this is one of the largest onsen theme parks in the Arima area. You can enjoy bathing in the three famous Arima springs: Kinsen (Gold Spring), Ginsen (Silver Spring), and Carbonated Spring.

Reference Fees for Day-Trip Bathing:

Weekdays:

Adults: 2,090 JPY (60-minute plan)

Children (Elementary School): 1,239 JPY

Toddlers (3-5 years old): 440 JPY

Weekends & Holidays:

Adults: 2,200 JPY (60-minute plan)

Children (Elementary School): 1,430 JPY

Toddlers (3-5 years old): 550 JPY

Specific Peak Periods:

New Year (Jan 1-3), Golden Week (May 3-5), Obon Festival (Aug 10-15)

Adults: 3,300 JPY

Children (Elementary School): 1,430 JPY

Toddlers (3-5 years old): 550 JPY

Payment Methods:

Credit cards (VISA, JCB, etc.), electronic payments (PayPay, LINE Pay, etc.), or cash are accepted.

Winter Time: 14:30 / Summer Time: 15:30 — Kobe

Kitano Ijinkan-gai (Approx. 1 hour, free time available)

During the Meiji and Taisho periods, Kobe built a large number of Western-style buildings, which are best preserved today in the Kitano area of Chuo Ward. The district stretching from Yamamoto-dori 1-chome to 3-chome is known as "Kitano Ijinkan-gai," formerly consisting of private residences of foreign merchants and foreign consulates. Walking uphill along Kitano-dori or Ijinkan-dori, you will encounter numerous Western-style houses. Some have been converted into museums or art galleries, while others remain open to the public in their original layout. Boutiques, cafes, small restaurants, and flower shops are scattered among the buildings, creating an elegant exotic atmosphere reminiscent of a small European town—perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Starbucks Kitano Ijinkan Concept Store — Japan's First Starbucks

Built in 1907, this building has a history of over 100 years. It was originally the residence of an American, later purchased by a German baker who converted it into a coffee room on the first floor and a Western-style exhibition hall on the second. After collapsing in the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake, it was rebuilt on the original site and registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. In 2009, Starbucks transformed this legendary building into the historic Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Store.

Recommended Attractions:

Kaze no Toridori (Weathercock House)

Admission: 500 JPY | Combo ticket with Moegi House: 650 JPY

The symbol of Kitano Ijinkan and designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Beyond its stately architecture, the interior features stunning Art Nouveau elements from the early 20th century, making it both luxurious and comfortable. Built during the Meiji period as the residence of German trader Gottfried Thomas, this two-story mansion stands out with its vibrant red brick exterior and wooden spire. It gets its name from the iron weathercock on the roof.

Moegi House

Admission: 400 JPY | Combo ticket with Weathercock House: 650 JPY

Formerly the private residence of American Consul Hunter Sharp during the Meiji era, named for its pale green ("Moegi") exterior walls. Each room features different wall colors and unique fireplace mantels, showcasing impressive craftsmanship. Designated as an Important Cultural Property, the second floor offers a beautiful panoramic view of Kobe's cityscape.

Fish Scale House

Admission: 1,100 JPY

The first Ijinkan opened to the public in Kobe, named for its natural stone slate exterior that resembles fish scales. It is designated as a National Tangible Cultural Property and one of the "100 Best Houses in Hyogo." The art gallery on the west side features a long-term collection of modern and European masterpieces, including large landscapes by Troyon (Barbizon School), Matisse, Utrillo, and Buffet.

Winter Time: 15:50 / Summer Time: 16:50 — Kobe

Kobe Port & Mosaic Ferris Wheel (Approx. 2 hours, includes free time for dinner)

Kobe Port is one of Japan's most important commercial and industrial ports. Since the Meiji era, it has been a settlement area for foreigners, filled with an exotic atmosphere. The port area is famous for its modern architectural designs and stunning lighting effects. Iconic landmarks include the Kobe Port Tower, the Maritime Museum, and the Mosaic Ferris Wheel. Strolling along the seaside promenade, enjoying the ocean breeze, and spending a leisurely afternoon here is truly delightful.

Mosaic Ferris Wheel

One of the landmarks of Kobe Port is this bright red Ferris wheel. It was originally part of a mini amusement park called "Mosaic Garden," hence the common name "Mosaic Ferris Wheel." After the amusement park closed in 2013, the Ferris wheel remained as a Kobe landmark, managed and operated by the surrounding shopping malls. It is also an excellent spot for viewing Kobe's night scenery, making a night ride particularly romantic.

Admission: 800 JPY per ride

Children under 3 years old: Free

(Please note: This fee is at your own expense)

Opening Hours: 10:00 – 22:00 (Ticket sales end 15 minutes before closing)

Recommended Cuisine: Kobe Beef

Kobe Beef is arguably the most delicious Wagyu beef in the world, famous for its melt-in-your-mouth texture that leaves an unforgettable impression. Tajima, located in Hyogo Prefecture, is one of the premier origins of top-quality Wagyu, specifically bred to reach "Kobe Beef" status. To qualify as "Kobe Beef," the cattle must be born and raised in Hyogo Prefecture and possess pure Tajima bloodlines. Every calf born is issued a "Calf Registration Certificate" by the government, detailing its bloodline and marked with a nose stamp.

Rokko Mountain Night View Tour Info

Winter Time: 18:20 / Summer Time: 19:20 — Rokko Mountain

Rokko Mountain Night View (Approx. 100 minutes)

Located near Kobe, Rokko Mountain is part of the Setonaikai National Park and is one of the best spots to enjoy Kobe's night view, often ranked among Japan's Top 3 Night Views.

Rokko Cable Car (Rokko Kēburu)

(Note: As the mountain road is winding and may cause motion sickness by bus, we recommend experiencing the unique Rokko Cable Car. Fare is at your own expense.)

Operating Hours: 07:10 – 21:10 (Open daily, no regular holidays)

Schedule: Between 8:00 and 20:00, departures are at 00, 20, and 40 minutes past the hour. Upon arrival, you are expected to take the 19:40 cable car up the mountain. (Ride duration: approx. 10 minutes)

Fare Reference:

Round-trip Adult: 1,550 JPY

Round-trip Child: 780 JPY

Rokko Sanjo Observatory

(Note: Due to the "Kobe Rokko MEETS ART 2026 beyond" event held from Aug 29, 2026 to Nov 29, 2026, the observatory will charge an admission fee during this period. Night ticket approx. 2,000 JPY, payable on-site. Fee is at your own expense.)

Named by Emperor Showa in 1981, the observatory is located next to the Rokko Cable Car Mountain Station and is one of the three most recommended night view spots on Rokko Mountain. (Open year-round with normally free admission, except during the art festival.)

Kobe's night view was first rated as a "Million Dollar Night View" in 1953, based on the calculation that the monthly electricity cost of the visible lights exceeded one million USD (at the then exchange rate of 1 USD = 360 JPY). In 2005, recalculating based on the daily electricity cost (at 1 USD = 110 JPY), the value exceeded ten million USD, earning Kobe night view the more impressive title of "Ten Million Dollar Night View." The panoramic view stretches from Wakayama to the Akashi Kaikyo Strait.

Kobe Rokko MEETS ART 2026 beyond – Encounter Rich Nature and Art

"Kobe Rokko MEETS ART" is an outdoor art event primarily held at tourist facilities on Rokko Mountain. Since its inception in 2010, over 650 groups of artists have participated. The theme of this 17th edition is "Based on the Nature and History of Rokko Mountain." By appreciating the natural scenery and artworks that symbolize Kobe's Rokko Mountain, the event encourages people to view and reflect on environmental issues from broader and more diverse perspectives.

Winter Time: 20:00 / Summer Time: 21:00 — Departure

Depart for return. Disband at Nipponbashi Exit 2 area or conclude the tour at hotels in Osaka city.

Winter Time: 21:00 / Summer Time: 22:00 — Arrival

Arrive at Nipponbashi Exit 2 area. Tour concludes.

For guests with the Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off/Transfer Package:

Please wait for the shuttle bus to arrive. You will be sent to your hotel/guesthouse to conclude the tour.

Shinsaibashi & Dotonbori Area Introduction

Shinsaibashi

Osaka's most famous shopping street, lined with large department stores, chain drugstores, heritage brands, and small boutiques. You can find products of all levels and styles here, including dedicated Hello Kitty and Disney stores. It is also a hub for drugstores popular among shoppers, where you can freely browse cosmetics and skincare products. Most stores are equipped with Chinese-speaking staff and accept UnionPay cards, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience.

Dotonbori

The synonymous name for Osaka's food culture. This street never rests, day or night. As the birthplace of Osaka's "kuidaore" (eat until you drop) culinary tradition, Dotonbori offers a wide variety of local delicacies such as takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and Kinryu Ramen. You will also find traditional Japanese izakayas and popular viral restaurants, including the highly acclaimed Kani Doraku.

• Meals not included
• Hotel not included
• 19:30 return Depart and return to Shinsaibashi Dotonbori area for disembarkation or end the trip at your hotel in Osaka city.
• Things to Know
  • The pickup and drop-off order and schedule will be arranged by the driver-guide based on factors like travel distance. We kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation, and please follow the driver-guide's arrangements.
  • The above itinerary schedule may be adjusted due to weather, road conditions and other reasons, please understand.
  • The self-expenses listed in the itinerary must be paid on the tour, and the price is for reference only.