It might be a bit rather touristic than local’s favorite..still I think Kitano is the must place to visit to understand Kobe history. Kitano is hillside of Kobe where diplomats and businesspeople started to live in 1890s. There’s still some old residences remain now open to public as museums.
Nostalgic residences and narrow paths in Kitano area is definitely makes Kobe different from any other place in Japan. There’s many cafes and souvenir shops make your stroll even more fun. Pick the area map from information desk before you start.
Mon-Su: 09:00-18:00