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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)
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
The local guide will pick you up at Kobe Port Terminal or any places within Kobe city.
Please note: If your hotel does not allow vehicles to stop directly at the entrance, you may need to walk a short distance to a nearby pickup location.
Itinerary
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Kobe (Pass by)
Kobe is a scenic port city surrounded by mountains and sea, known for its rich international history and elegant atmosphere. "The Kitano Ijinkan district" features Western-style houses from the 19th century, while "Harborland" offers waterfront views and shopping. "Ikuta Shrine", one of Japan’s oldest, stands in the city center. "The Nada district" is home to many sake breweries, offering insight into traditional brewing culture. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from "Mount Rokko". Kobe is also famous for its refined "Kobe beef" and a blend of Japanese and Western influences throughout the city.
Admission ticket free -
Osaka (Pass by)
【45min from Kobe】Osaka is a vibrant city known for its energetic street life, modern architecture, and rich food culture. Landmarks like Osaka Castle and Dotonbori are iconic, but they’re often crowded with visitors. With a private vehicle, you can venture beyond the busy city center to explore quieter, lesser-known areas with local charm. Historical neighborhoods, peaceful riverside parks, and cultural sites such as hidden temples or retro shopping arcades reveal a different side of Osaka. Traveling by car offers flexibility and comfort, making it easier to experience both the city’s lively heart and its more relaxed, authentic surroundings.
Admission ticket free -
Kyoto (Pass by)
【90min from Kobe】Kyoto is a city steeped in history, known for its countless temples, shrines, and traditional wooden townscapes. While famous areas like Gion and Arashiyama attract large crowds, traveling by private vehicle offers a chance to escape the busy tourist spots and discover hidden gems in the surrounding countryside. Quiet gardens, lesser-known temples, and scenic rural landscapes await just a short drive from the city center. With a private car, you can enjoy a more relaxed pace, avoid public transport congestion, and explore places that offer a deeper, more tranquil side of Kyoto away from the usual tourist trail.
Admission ticket free -
Nara (Pass by)
【90min from Kobe】Nara is known as the birthplace of Japanese Buddhism and home to some of the country’s oldest and most significant cultural sites. Highlights include the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple, the sacred deer roaming freely in Nara Park, and the beautifully preserved Kasuga Taisha Shrine. While central areas can get busy, traveling by private vehicle allows you to reach quieter spots like traditional villages and lesser-known temples in the surrounding countryside, offering a more peaceful and personal experience of Nara’s deep spiritual heritage.
Admission ticket free -
Himeji (Pass by)
【30min from Kobe】Himeji is best known for Himeji Castle, Japan’s most spectacular and well-preserved feudal fortress, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city also offers elegant gardens like Koko-en and quiet, walkable streets around the castle town. With a private car, you can explore nearby local areas, visit artisan workshops, or enjoy seasonal flowers and mountain views—away from tour group crowds. Himeji’s compact size makes it ideal for a half-day trip, especially when paired with other destinations like Kobe or Akashi.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
【30min from Kobe】Awaji Island offers a refreshing escape from the city, with ocean views, lush parks, and cultural spots tied to Japan’s creation myths. Easily reached via the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge from Kobe, the island is ideal for a private day trip by car. A top highlight is Nijigen no Mori, a unique anime-themed park featuring attractions from Naruto, Godzilla, and more. You can also explore coastal shrines, flower gardens, and scenic drives. With fewer crowds and a slower pace, Awaji combines nature, fun, and local charm—perfect for families, anime fans, or anyone looking to experience something different.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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