Exploring Kobe: A Hidden Paradise for Trail Runners and Nature Lovers
- ptakuyap15
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 41 minutes ago
Kobe (神戸) is Japan’s sixth-largest city and best known for Kobe beef.
As someone born in Fukuoka, I always thought of Kobe as a nice port city—familiar, comfortable, and easy to like, but… not as good as my Fukuoka!
I love running and walking in nature, even when I travel. Kobe surprised me with how quickly you can escape into the mountains on your own feet, hit a trail, and still be back in the city the same day. (or even within a half day!)
In this blog, I’ll share why Kobe is a great place to visit if you enjoy nature, walking, and a bit of running—just like I do.
Quieter and cleaner than Osaka?
If you’re planning to visit Kobe, chances are you’ll also be in Osaka—the second-largest city in Japan.
Osaka has a lot to offer, but I often found myself a bit tired of the crowds, endless entertainment, and bright advertisements.
By contrast, Kobe—just under 30 minutes by train from Osaka—felt cleaner, calmer, and more relaxed.
Later, I learned from locals that they also see Kobe as a more “refined” city in the Kansai region.
Strolling the port area
We strolled the port area while we waited for the hotel check-in time.
From the port, I could enjoy the view of the iconic Kobe port tower and the Kobe Marine Museum.
The port are wasn't crowded at all, plus no loud music or neither the unpleasant bad smell.
I always enjoy the history of the place I visit.
Mountain to Sea
The first thing that caught my eye when I arrived in Kobe was how the mountains are part of the city… and not just mountains, but the sea too!
As a proud Fukuoka native, I’d always been boasting about how compact and convenient Fukuoka is. But I have to admit—Kobe might be even better for someone like me who loves mountains and forests above all else.
I loved the simplicity of Kobe’s cityscape: mountains on one side, the sea on the other. Sure, it’s hilly, but somehow it reminded me of Bergen in Norway.
A Helpful Spot for Runners: Yano Sports “RUN JOURNEY”
We hadn’t planned much for this trip—sometimes we like to travel spontaneously.
By chance, we stumbled upon a running shop called RUN JOURNEY. As it turns out, this local shop specializes in trail running courses—sometimes destiny really does take care of itself!
The shop offers several trail running routes depending on your needs, complete with paper maps featuring cute illustrations.
We decided to try one of the mountain trails the very next day.
Kobe Trail Running Guide
We didn’t follow the map 100%—mostly improvised as we went.
What I love about Kobe is its simple geography: wherever you are, you can always see two ultimate directions—mountains and sea.
We just kept heading toward the mountains, asking for directions to landmarks along the way, and eventually made it to the trail.
Once we reached the mountains, signs were everywhere, so it was really easy to navigate.
Plus, the mountains are low—around 300m—making them perfect for trail running.
If you want to check our exact route, you can see my AllTrail record, though it’s definitely not the most efficient way to go point-to-point!
Mt. Dotoku (堂徳山)
From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kobe. There are a few benches where you can sit down and enjoy lunch.
Futatabi Park (再度公園)
A peaceful park with a beautiful lake. I saw many people relaxing by the water or enjoying a picnic. With easy access by car, it feels like a perfect spot for locals to spend a day in nature.
There’s also a café on-site, perfect for grabbing some food or a coffee.
Dairyūji (大龍寺)
A beautiful temple covered in a golden carpet of ginkgo leaves, its history stretching back to the year 768.
We had forgotten to bring water, but luckily found vending machines in the parking lot right in front of the temple.
Vending machines and public toilets—two things I love about Japan.
(Yes, you can even find public toilets downstairs at this temple.)
Nunobiki Falls - Ontaki 布引の滝（雄滝）
Who doesn’t love a waterfall? Standing in front of one always makes me feel refreshed and re-energized.
This waterfall isn’t huge, but it’s so close to the city and has a calm, peaceful vibe.
Somewhere along the trail, there’s a spot where you can leave a message for the next hiker.
I’ve already forgotten exactly where it is—but maybe you’ll find ours?
Where to drink Coffee : TAOCA COFFEE
Local favourite TAOCA COFFEE has three ( or more ) locations in Kobe. Their roasting style brings out a natural sweetness in the beans.
We swung by TAOCA COFEE Kobe Motomachi where the building looks like a boutique shop. This shop does not have many seats so more for quick espresso stop or buying beans.
The quality is top-notch but not great spot to relax and chill as the tourlists also find place attractive.
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