A Travel Price Comparison for Japan Kyoto vs. Kobe for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Kyoto or Kobe?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Kyoto and Kobe can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Kyoto

Kyoto is a traditional, historic, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Kobe

Kobe is a subdued, under-rated, and multicultural city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Kyoto and Kobe: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kyoto or Kobe?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kyoto. Although Kyoto and Kobe are both popular with visitors, Kyoto has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kyoto is more touristy than Kobe and is popular for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history. It is also home to Kinkaku-ji. Kobe is popular for its world renowned Kobe beef and its hot spring resorts.

How is Kyoto different from Kobe?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kobe and Kyoto. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kyoto or Kobe?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its historical sights. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kyoto has many famous sights for visitors. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Kobe is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Check out the view from the top of the Kobe Port Tower and visit the high energy area of Kobe Harborland. The Disaster Reduction Museum and the nearby Human Renovation Museum are both fascinating to visit as well. Also check out the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art and Rokko Island.

Is the Food Better in Kyoto or Kobe? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at very good restaurants in both Kyoto and Kobe.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Kyoto. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Kobe has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Most people immediately think of Kobe beef when they think of this city, but there are also many other specialties around town. You'll find good sushi as well as akashiyaki, which are octopus dumplings. The city long served as a major port for Japan, so there is a strong Chinese influence over the cuisine. In particular, you should try the chuka ryori (a Chinese dumpling).

Is Kyoto or Kobe Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Kyoto or Kobe has a better nightlife scene.

Kyoto has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

If you're looking for night time activities Kobe has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene is a bit subdued, but that doesn't mean you won't find local bars, karaoke, and live music venues where you can hang out. Many visitors enjoy having a chill night out with a drink in a laid back setting.

Is Kyoto or Kobe Better for its Old Town?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Kobe does not have a historic old town.

Kyoto offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Kobe does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Kyoto or Kobe?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kobe and Kyoto.

Kyoto is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kobe. It's fun and convenient to shop here, as the best shopping districts are easy to access from the train stations. Sannomiya is a hub of transportation and shopping in the city, but also check out Kobe Harborland for its diverse stores and high energy.

Is Kyoto or Kobe Better for Families?

Kyoto is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Kyoto. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

Kobe is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of kid-friendly attractions around Kobe Harborland including a ferris wheel, Anpanman Museum, and the Kobe Maritime Museum. Kids will also enjoy running around Meriken Park or Mount Rokko. Kids who like animals will enjoy a visit to Kobe Animal Kingdom.

Is Kyoto or Kobe Better for Couples?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Kyoto is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Kobe is a nice destination for couples. There's a romantic view from the top of the Kobe Port Tower. There are also many parks and a waterfront promenade where you can take a stroll. If you enjoy hiking, you can take the Maya View Line Kikuseidai, which is particularly nice in the evening.

Is Kyoto or Kobe Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kyoto is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Kyoto. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Kobe. Although many tourists and backpackers don't put Kobe on their itinerary, there are still a handful of hostels around the city.

Is Kyoto or Kobe Better for Students?

Kyoto is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Kobe is not popular with students.

Many students visit Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Kobe is not popular with students.

Is Kyoto or Kobe Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kyoto is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Kyoto. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

Kobe has a few public transit options. While there is a subway system, it's not particularly useful to tourists. There is a bus service that operates a line that targets tourists.

Is Kyoto or Kobe a more walkable city?

Kyoto is an amazing city to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Kobe is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Kyoto is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

Kobe is somewhat walkable. It's relatively easy to walk around many parts of the city, although some areas are quite hilly. You can walk from Shin-Kobe Bullet Train Station to the water in about half an hour.

For even more information, also check out Is Kyoto Worth Visiting? and Is Kobe Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kobe or Kyoto?

How long in Kyoto or Kobe?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kyoto or Kobe to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kyoto than Kobe because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kyoto, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kobe.

Families should spend more time in Kyoto than Kobe. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kyoto, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kyoto than Kobe. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kyoto that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kyoto than Kobe if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kyoto.

One day in Kyoto or Kobe?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Kyoto. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Kobe, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Kyoto or Kobe?

Kyoto is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kobe. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Kyoto or Kobe?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating destination of Kyoto. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Kobe is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Kobe. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Kyoto or Kobe?

The cultural city of Kyoto offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

You'll find food and shopping around the subdued destination of Kobe. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Japan, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Japan.

When comparing the travel costs between Kyoto and Kobe, we can see that Kobe is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Asia, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kyoto Expensive? and Is Kobe Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kyoto or Kobe?

Kobe has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Kyoto. When comparing the sizes of Kyoto and Kobe, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Kyoto or Kobe?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Kyoto or Kobe in the Summer?

Both Kobe and Kyoto during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Kyoto this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Kobe for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Kyoto is around the same temperature as Kobe. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kyoto in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Kobe averages at about 27°C (80°F).

In the summer, Kyoto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kobe. Kyoto gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kobe receives 183 hours of full sun.

Kobe gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Kyoto. Kyoto usually gets more rain in July than Kobe. Kyoto gets 236 mm (9.3 in) of rain, while Kobe receives 157 mm (6.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Kobe in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kyoto and Kobe. Many travelers come to Kyoto for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kobe in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Kyoto is generally around the same temperature as Kobe. Daily temperatures in Kyoto average around 18°C (64°F), and Kobe fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

Kyoto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kobe during autumn. Kyoto gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Kobe receives 159 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kobe receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kyoto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Kobe. Kyoto gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Kobe receives 102 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Kyoto or Kobe in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kyoto as well as Kobe. Many visitors come to Kyoto in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Kobe for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Kyoto can get quite cold in the winter. Kyoto is cooler than Kobe in the winter. The daily temperature in Kyoto averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Kobe fluctuates around 5°C (42°F).

In the winter, Kyoto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Kobe. Kyoto gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kobe receives 140 hours of full sun.

Kyoto usually gets more rain in January than Kobe. Kyoto gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kobe receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kyoto or Kobe in the Spring?

Both Kobe and Kyoto are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kyoto for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Kobe because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Kyoto is around the same temperature as Kobe. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kyoto in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Kobe averages at about 15°C (58°F).

Kyoto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Kobe during spring. Kyoto gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Kobe receives 176 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kobe. It's quite rainy in Kyoto. In April, Kyoto usually receives more rain than Kobe. Kyoto gets 153 mm (6 in) of rain, while Kobe receives 138 mm (5.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kobe and Kyoto