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282 Available Tour Excursions in Hyogo Prefecture
Join a tour by MagicalTrip, proud winner of the Tripadvisor Best of the Best Award. Each experience is led by a MagicalTrip Certified Guide, professionally trained and carefully selected to ensure quality and authenticity. Meet at Himeji Station and begin a cycling journey through the historic castle town. Visit a Japanese sweets shop with over 300 years of history and taste “Tamatsubaki,” a refined confection once presented to feudal lords. Explore the magnificent Himeji Castle, also known as Shirasagi-jo (White Egret Castle), and enjoy views from the top. Cycle through the town for a Japanese lunch, then stop at a scenic shrine perfect for photos of the castle. Relax with tea in the beautiful Kokoen Daimyo Garden before cycling back to the station.
Price: $91.21
Duration: 5 hours
Get a taste of Japan with a fully private, one-group-per-day experience. Start anytime between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM: — 11:00 AM is ideal for lunch — 5:00 PM works perfectly for dinner. With no other guests, you’ll enjoy hands-on guidance, learn at your own pace, and savor your creations in a truly personal setting. Making nigiri sushi at home is a breeze with sanitary gloves — just a bit of practice, and you’ll be rolling like a sushi pro in no time! Join us for a hands-on sushi session that’s all about fun, flavor, and good vibes. With a pro sushi master guiding you, you’ll unlock the secrets of the freshest fish and perfect nigiri-making. This isn’t just cooking; it’s an art refined over decades. Take your new skills home and become the sushi star everyone raves about. Whether you’re new to sushi or a longtime fan, this experience will have you hooked — your sushi nights will never be the same!
Price: $115.00
Duration: 3 hours
Have fun talking with local people in a super smiley environment. Shioya is a quaint peaceful fishing village nestled in a valley. It takes about 15 minutes from JR Kobe station and 40 minutes from Osaka station. First, let’s go to the harbor. Enjoy a photogenic view of Mt Rokko, Awaji island, the Pearl bridge, even Kansai airport across the sea on a sunny day. Also, you can see Nori (seaweed) facrory when it opens（From Dec to Mar, Depends on the weather） and you can buy it on outlet price. Then through the tunnel, we’ll go into SHIOYA town. I’d like you to know about real Japanese daily life. I want to share my local vision with you, visiting a barber shop which has more than 100 years of history, a tatami factory, and our beautiful heritage Guggenheim house, and others when they are open. While walking, let’s enjoy various local snacks & drinks and communication with friendly local people.
Price: $98.93
Duration: 3 hours
A private tour - to maintain the unique energy of your group. Have any special interests or requests? We can add it into your Kobe experience...just let us know. A Great Mix of the Old & New of Kobe City... oh yeah! You will have a Native English Speaking local guide. Spend time enjoying the city, (and not spending time getting lost in train stations or lost in translation)....another Oh yeah! Once you have booked your experience, we will be in touch with you within 48-hours to plan your personalized experience, and finalize our meeting point. For tours less than 48-hours, we will contact you sooner.
Price: $135.00
Duration: 7 hours
This value-packed trip with a government-licensed and experienced multilingual tour guide is a fantastic and efficient way to explore Kobe! Perched on a hillside sloping down to the sea, Kobe is one of Japan's most attractive and cosmopolitan cities. Compact and designed for walking, it is easily visited as a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto. Immerse yourself in the city's distinct atmosphere and dining options! Let us know what you would like to experience and we will customize a six-hour tour that's best for you! Note*1: Please select your must-see spots from a list in the tour information to create your customized itinerary. Note*2: The National Government Licensed Guide Interpreter certification is issued by the Japanese government requires a good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history.
Price: $153.11
Duration: 6 hours
The best way to enjoy a private day by vehicle, exploring from Kobe to Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, or nearby destinations — selecting places that fit your schedule. This tour is ideal not only for cruise passengers arriving at Kobe, but also for travelers staying in Kobe for leisure, business, or MICE events. Your itinerary is fully customized to match your schedule, interests, travel style, and season. With local insight, we design the best routes and stops for a smooth, enjoyable experience—whether you prefer famous landmarks, local culture, or quiet countryside scenery. This tour is available in two options. ① "The driver-guide option" is led by a licensed guide who also drives a private vehicle. It is more cost-effective, uses a standard passenger car, and some walking may be required. (max. 4 people / 10 hours) ② "The separate driver & guide option" includes a dedicated driver and guide, offering smoother, more comfortable transportation for larger groups. (max. 8 people / 10 hours)
Price: $263.87
Duration: 8-10 hours
Exclusively designed for cruise travelers docking in Kobe or Osaka, this customizable Nara tour takes you to iconic sights like Kofuku-ji Temple, Todaiji Temple, and the famous Nara Deer Park. Perfect for families and culture seekers, it offers a seamless, stress-free day with insider knowledge, sacred shrines like Kasuga Taisha, and unforgettable encounters with friendly deer—all while ensuring timely return to your ship Tour itinerary is designed based on hiring a car/van for 10 hours (Please carefully check the Inclusions & exclusions and the booking and payment options) to provide ample time to visit Nara's most iconic cultural & historic landmarks, ensuring a comprehensive experience of the city's rich heritage. Itinerary (Customizable): 08:00 Meeting at Osaka or Kobe port (depending on your cruise ship dock time) 09:30 Kofuku-ji Temple 11:00 Nara Deer Park 12:00 Lunch Break 13:30 Todaiji Temple 15:00 Kasuga Taisha Shrine 16:00 Back to the Port 18:00 Drop off at the port
Price: $490.00
Duration: 6-10 hours
Cycling through Ikuno, a mining town with a history spanning over 1200 years. The ore road is the remains of the railway line along which trolleys carried ore in those days. You can follow this road by bicycle or walk part of it. Enjoy the rivers, shrines, and beautiful natural scenery along the way. Leaving Ikuno, with its old traditional Japanese houses, the tour continues along a nature-rich mountain path, stopping at the oldest cast-iron bridge in Japan, built by French engineers over 170 years ago. It is a popular photo spot for tour participants! Further along the winding road, as you approach Mikobata, you will come across the ruins of the huge Mikobata Ore Dressing Plant. You will marvel at the size of the site. Learn about the history of the ore dressing plant from the locals and have the opportunity to buy locally made souvenirs. Here we enjoy lunch. Afterwards, you will be free to explore the area. The tour ends with a drink at the Asago Cycling Station.
Price: $149.85
Duration: 5-6 hours
As you only have 2 days in Kyoto, I can show you the best spots in Kyoto visitors should see. The tour includes visits to some of the top spots of Kyoto. What makes this tour unique? Tour itinerary is planned to cover the top sightseeing spots of Kyoto and long enough to go around the cultural and historic places too. Itinerary is shown here, however, you can still customize it in arrangement with the guide. Day-1 09:00 Meet at your hotel in Kyoto 09:30 Nijo castle 11:00 Kinkakoji temple 12:30 Ryoanji Temple 14:00 Lunch break (Kyoto station) 15:30 Fushimi Inari shrine 17:00 Tour finish Day-2 09:00 Meet at your hotel in Kyoto 10:00 Bamboo forest, Nonomiya Shrine and Tenryu-ji temple garden 11:30 Hozu-gawa river and Togetsu bridge 12:00 Monkey's park 14:00 Lunch (Kyoto station) 15:30 Kiyomezu dera temple and Gion area 17:00 Tour finish
Price: $980.00
Duration: 16 hours
Discover the Hidden Charms of Himeji – Private Custom Tour (4 Hours) This 4-hour private tour starts at Himeji Station and takes you beyond the usual tourist paths. In addition to must-see sites like Himeji Castle and Mount Shosha (Engyōji Temple), you’ll visit local heritage homes and hidden gems rarely seen on large group tours. Prior to your visit, we’ll communicate with you by email to create a fully personalized itinerary tailored to your interests. This is your chance to enjoy a one-of-a-kind Himeji experience — designed just for you.
Price: $84.70
Duration: 4 hours
Are you a sake lover? Or are you visiting Kobe for second time and wanto learn more about the region? If your answer is yes, this is the perfect experience for you! And also you can try “Kakuuchi” which means you can get sake and drink it at liquor shop. This is a unique way that experienced sake lovers drink at breweries. Shall we try it out? ・Explore the Nada sake district, which is one of Japan's 'Big Three' sake regions. ・Gain insider knowledge on sake production with guided tours of renowned breweries, showcasing traditional teqhniques. ・Enjoy 10 sake flavors through tastings at each stop. ・Get some souveniours at brewery shops where you can buy limited edition.
Price: $84.05
Duration: 3 hours
"The cycling journey commences with a gradual ascent, effortlessly conquered by the power of the E-Bike. As we traverse through a tunnel, a gentle descent unfolds, revealing the picturesque farming landscape. Crossing over the river and venturing through the woods, you'll encounter intriguing artifacts and captivating scenery, each beckoning to be captured through your lens. With luck on your side, you may even capture a stunning close-up shot of a passing train, at a renowned photography spot cherished by locals. Your cycling guide will expertly navigate the route back to Ikuno Town, unveiling notable points of interest along the way. After reaching our destination, a brief yet enriching walking tour will acquaint you with the charming essence of Ikuno town. Prepare to immerse yourself in a wealth of discoveries and insights."
Price: $130.31
Duration: 3-4 hours
Discover Himeji Castle, Japan’s first World Heritage Site, a majestic white fortress renowned for its unparalleled blend of defensive prowess and stunning beauty. Step into the shoes of a samurai and experience this iconic castle as if you were launching an attack. Your adventure begins at Himeji Station, where the castle’s grandeur unfolds before you. Cross the moats and gates, designed to thwart invaders, and enter the castle grounds. Explore the Nishi-no-Maru, the living quarters of the princess and her attendants, to get a taste of Edo-period life. Navigate through a labyrinth of defensive systems leading to the main keep. Confront intricate mazes, hidden traps, and elevated battlements. Upon reaching the tenshu, be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city.
Price: $117.28
Duration: 2 hours
Kobe Private Custom Tour – Explore at Your Own Pace Discover Kobe with a fully customizable private tour. Whether you prefer a relaxed journey or want to see as much as possible, our expert guide will craft the perfect itinerary. Enjoy the scenic Harborland, Meriken Park, and Kobe Port Tower, or admire the Akashi Kaikyō Bridge. Stroll through Kitano Ijinkan, visit Ikuta Shrine, or take in breathtaking views from Mt. Rokko and Mt. Maya. Food lovers can explore Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown) or enjoy sake tastings at top breweries like Hakutsuru and Kikumasamune. If relaxation is your goal, unwind in the famous Arima Onsen. With flexible pick-up, tailored sightseeing, and expert guidance, this tour is designed to match your interests. Let us help you experience Kobe beyond the typical tourist spots!
Price: $166.14
Duration: 4-8 hours
It's impossible to see all Kobe's must-sees in a day! The important thing is that you get to experience the highlights that are unmissable to you so hand your bucket-list over to one of our hosts and get exploring! Whether you want to explore iconic monuments, check out the scenic gardens and beautiful waterfalls or sink your teeth into the famous Kobe beef- the choice is yours. From leisurely strolls along the Maiko Marine Promenade to hikes up Mount Rokko and food sampling in Kobe Motomachi- aka the street of shopping- adventure awaits. Within 24 hours after booking you'll receive a short questionnaire about your personality and interests. Based on your responses, you'll be assigned a like-minded host. Your host will communicate with you directly to suggest an itinerary to help you discover what makes the city unique. You will also agree on a meeting time and place. Your itinerary is flexible, so during the experience, you can always change your mind about what you want to do.
Price: $70.48
Duration: 8 hours
If you only have one day but still want to make the most of your time, this is the all-in-one tour you need. We will cover mountains and seas, from famous landmarks like Kobe Tower and Ikuta Shrine to wonders known to locals. We will also take you to taste local delicacies and visit Japan's most famous sake producing areas. Before ending the trip, we will not forget to show you the beautiful night view. You will walk around the city in a fun and relaxing way with a locally-based English-speaking guide. This tour will show you almost everything there is to know about Kobe City in one day.
Price: $150.50
Duration: 8 hours
The legend of the hot spring of Kinosaki. History recovered from the earthquake. Kinosaki's traditional craft that Siebold has made a collection. We explain world heritage of topography, San-in Coast Geopark. The Ramsar Wetland, an internationally important wetland for waterfowl, is home to storks, a natural monument. Cycling along the river to the Sea of Japan. It is a tour where you can feel the life of people in a small hot spring town and feel the earth in the large Japan Sea. The course is almost flat and it is a course that women can feel free to join.
Price: $110.76
Duration: 3 hours
Experience Japanese home cooking and learn to make ramen and gyoza with a friendly Kobe local host This class takes place at the host’s Japanese-style apartment in Kobe Make a soy sauce-based ramen with toppings and fry crispy gyoza filled with vegetables, pork and meat Enjoy a delicious homemade lunch with your host and take home a cute set of chopsticks as a souvenir A vegetarian option is available! Replace meat with flavorful vegetables (please inquire upon booking)
Price: $57.33
Duration: 2 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: JPY
- Languages: Japanese, English (commonly spoken in tourist areas)
- Climate: Humid subtropical
- Timezone: Asia/Tokyo
- Population: Approximately 5.4 million people
- Best Time to Visit: times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic beauty.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from many countries, including the US, EU, and UK, can enter Japan visa-free for short stays up to 90 days. Others may require a visa obtained prior to arrival. Japan also offers e-visa options for certain nationalities. Visa on arrival is generally not available. Travelers should check specific requirements based on their nationality before travel.
About Hyogo Prefecture
Hyogo Prefecture, located in the Kansai region of Japan, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions. It is famous for its diverse landscapes, from the vibrant urban center of Kobe to the serene mountains and hot springs of Arima Onsen. Visitors are drawn to its cultural heritage sites, including Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s most spectacular and well-preserved castles. Hyogo’s coastal areas provide stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea, while the Rokko mountain range offers hiking and panoramic vistas. The prefecture’s unique appeal lies in its harmonious mix of tradition and innovation, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking both cultural enrichment and outdoor adventure. Its culinary delights, such as Kobe beef, add to the sensory experience, ensuring visitors leave with lasting memories.
Hyogo Prefecture Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of Kansai
- Duration Range: Custom Durations
- Group Size: Small groups (up to 15 people)
- Difficulty Level: Mixed Difficulty
- Recommended For: The best times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic beauty. Pack comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet public behavior. Carry cash as some places may not accept cards. Safety is high, but always stay aware of your surroundings. Use public transport passes to save on travel costs.
Average Tour Price: $80
Lowest Price Tour: $50
Highest Price Tour: $220
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2. Check Details
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4. Enjoy Your Experience
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Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Top Attractions
1. Himeji Castle - A UNESCO World Heritage site, this iconic white castle is renowned for its elegant architecture and historical significance. 2. Arima Onsen - One of Japan’s oldest hot spring resorts, perfect for relaxation and experiencing traditional Japanese bathing culture. 3. Kobe Harborland - A lively waterfront area with shopping, dining, and entertainment, offering beautiful night views of the city skyline. 4. Mount Rokko - Popular for hiking, panoramic views, and seasonal flower gardens, accessible via cable car. 5. Akashi Kaikyo Bridge - The world’s longest suspension bridge, an engineering marvel connecting Kobe to Awaji Island.
Popular Activities
Hyogo offers a variety of activities including hiking in the Rokko mountains, soaking in hot springs at Arima Onsen, exploring historic sites like Himeji Castle, and enjoying water sports along the coast. Food tours featuring Kobe beef and sake tasting are popular cultural experiences. Visitors can also attend local festivals, visit museums, or take scenic boat cruises in the Seto Inland Sea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
Hyogo is famed for its Kobe beef, a premium wagyu known for its tenderness and flavor. Local cuisine also includes fresh seafood, especially from the Seto Inland Sea, and traditional dishes like soba noodles and tempura. Dining customs emphasize presentation and seasonal ingredients. Noteworthy restaurants include specialty steakhouses in Kobe and traditional ryotei serving kaiseki meals. Street food and local markets offer a taste of everyday flavors.
Getting Around
Hyogo is accessible by train via the Shinkansen bullet train to Shin-Kobe Station and by air through Kobe Airport. Local transportation includes an extensive train and bus network connecting cities and tourist spots. Taxis and rental bicycles are also available. Public transport is efficient and cost-effective, but travelers planning to explore rural areas might consider renting a car.
Travel Tips
The best times to visit are spring and autumn for pleasant weather and scenic beauty. Pack comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing. Respect local customs such as removing shoes indoors and quiet public behavior. Carry cash as some places may not accept cards. Safety is high, but always stay aware of your surroundings. Use public transport passes to save on travel costs.
Culture & Customs
Hyogo’s culture blends traditional Japanese customs with modern influences. Politeness and respect are paramount in social interactions. Important festivals include the Nada Fighting Festival and Kobe Luminarie light event. Visitors should bow when greeting, avoid loud conversations in public, and follow etiquette when visiting temples and shrines. Gift-giving and punctuality are valued.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..