If You're NearbyCitiesFoodViewpoints

Kobe

A cosmopolitan port between the mountains and the sea, famous for its beef, with a Chinatown, sake breweries and night views from Mount Rokko.

Photo: Balon Greyjoy · CC0
Best Time to Go
Mar–May, Oct–Nov
Our full guide to Kobe is being written. It's on the Kansai list as If You're Nearby.

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1–3 of 18
Must-See
Heritage · UNESCO

Nara

About 35 miles away

Tame deer around the world's largest wooden building, with its giant Buddha.

Guide Coming Soon
Must-See
Cities · UNESCO

Kyoto

About 39 miles away

Japan's old capital, with Fushimi Inari's gates, geisha, Kinkaku-ji and quiet gardens.

Guide Coming Soon
Worth a Detour
Cities · Food

Osaka

About 17 miles away

Japan's kitchen, with Dotonbori's neon and street food, and a grand castle.

1 Sight

The Full Short List

Kansai

Kyoto, Nara and Osaka.

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