Kobe, Japan: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Kobe, Japan? If you're planning to go to Kobe, below is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kobe, Japan

Based on the climate and weather in Kobe, Japan, the best time to go is October. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Kobe, Japan

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kobe, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Kobe, Japan by month

January

If you vacation in Kobe during January, you may see that it can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time and snow occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. It's important that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February in Kobe is cold and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time and snows occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to find the necessary type. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Kobe is brisk and somewhat rainy. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the low 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain about half of the time. With the colder weather comes lower humidity, which is in the 50% to 60% range on average.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

In April, Kobe is chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 60s F (high 10s C) and occasionally jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Kobe, with several of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 60%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Take care to pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

Traveling to Kobe in May, you will notice that it is balmy and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you vacation in Kobe during June, you may find that it is warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Check that you find the right kind. Many adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July is hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be careful to choose the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

If you go to Kobe in August, you will notice that it is really hot and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you find the right type. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

In September, Kobe is a perfect temperature and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Kobe, with several of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you visit Kobe during October, you might see that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 60s F (low 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Ensure that you get the right type. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in this region is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Make sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

Traveling to Kobe in December, you will notice that it can be brisk and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Japan has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kobe. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A and B. Be sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you visit the Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Kobe, Japan

Kobe, the capital city of Hyogo Prefecture, is located on the southern side of Honshu Island in Japan. It is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich cultural heritage and a fascinating history. Home to a vast array of attractions, Kobe is a delightful city for tourists and locals alike.

1. Kobe Port Tower

The Kobe Port Tower, one of the city's most iconic landmarks, is a 108 meter-tall tower that offers captivating views of the city, the mountains, and the harbor. Visitors can take a ride up the tower's observation deck on the 90-second elevator ride and take in the stunning views.

2. Kobe Harborland

Kobe Harborland is a waterfront commercial complex located near the Kobe Port Tower. It is a lively hotspot that features an extensive array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The shopping district is home to leading global brands and local artisans, while the restaurants and bars offer a range of international and local cuisines.

3. Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden

The Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden is a fragrant and picturesque collection of botanical gardens that sits atop the Nunobiki Falls. The terraced gardens consist of nearly 75,000 plants from 200 different kinds of herbs. The Nunobiki Falls is one of Japan's most picturesque waterfalls, and it also offers a breathtaking view of the city from its observation deck.

4. Kobe City Museum

The Kobe City Museum houses a vast collection of historical artifacts that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage. Its impressive collection portrays the history of Kobe's port as well as important figures that played a vital role in the city's development.

5. Mount Rokko

Mount Rokko is Kobe's most famous mountain and its natural beauty should not be missed. It offers stunning views of the entire city and is home to a range of famous attractions, including the Rokko Cable car, Mount Rokko Botanical Garden, Rokko Garden Terrace, and Rokko Alpine Garden.

In conclusion, Kobe is a city overflowing with fascinating and exciting attractions for tourists. From its picturesque port to its stunning botanical gardens and museums, there is something for everyone in Kobe. The city's unique blend of modern and traditional Japanese culture, along with its spectacular views, makes it a must-visit destination for all.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Erzurum, Turkey, Brunswick, Germany, Calella, Spain, Samani, Japan, Cavaillon, France, Belle-Église, France, Merrickville, Ontario, Canada, Kanagawa, Japan, Madidi National Park, Bolivia, Prescott, Ontario, Canada, and Northern Cameroon, Cameroon.