Featured Hotels Near Higashi-Tarumi Station

Kobe Port Tower Hotel is ideal for guests seeking panoramic views of Tsurugise Harbor and the Kobe Port skyline. Located just a 5-minute walk from the pier, this modern hotel offers spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for capturing sunset hues and nighttime illumination. Its rooftop terrace features an open-air bar serving local wines and cocktails, enhancing the romantic ambiance. The hotel also provides seamless access to nearby attractions via short walks or public transit, making it a top choice for travelers prioritizing scenic beauty and convenience.

At Tsurugise Harbor, visitors can take part in guided boat tours aboard glass-bottom boats or small sailing vessels, offering close-up views of the harbor’s marine life and coastal architecture. The sunset cruise with champagne is especially popular, combining gourmet bites and live music against a golden sky. Some boats even provide multilingual commentary, helping international guests appreciate the area’s maritime heritage. Nearby, seasonal harbor markets sell fresh seafood, handmade sweets, and local crafts—perfect for souvenirs and immersive cultural encounters.

The easiest route to Tsurugise is taking the Kobe Municipal Subway Line directly to Tsurugise Station, just a 20-minute ride from Sannomiya. Exiting the station, it’s only a 3-minute walk to the harbor promenade. Alternatively, free shuttle buses run from Kobe Station and JR Kobe Station, minimizing transfers. Travelers from Osaka can use Hankyu Railway or JR West Limited Express trains, reaching Tsurugise in under an hour—ideal for day-trippers exploring the Kansai region efficiently.

Yes, families will enjoy the Kobe Maritime Museum and Kobe Port Museum, both featuring interactive exhibits on maritime history and shipbuilding, designed to engage children. The adjacent waterfront playground includes shaded seating areas and safe play structures. Don’t miss the Kobe Port Tower and observation wheel, which light up beautifully at night, creating a magical atmosphere. Most facilities offer wheelchair access, stroller rentals, and kid-sized menus—ensuring a stress-free, enjoyable experience for all ages.

At Tsurugise, don’t miss Kobe beef steak at Kobe Beef Honpo, where premium cuts are grilled over charcoal for a melt-in-the-mouth texture. Try the fresh seafood bowl (kaisen don) made with daily catch—tender scallops, shrimp, and tuna served over warm rice. For sweet treats, visit a traditional tea house offering matcha mochi and copper-plate dorayaki, often styled in contemporary designs perfect for photos. Arrive in late afternoon to enjoy both the view and a delicious meal as the sun sets over the port.

Tsurugise was one of Kobe’s original customs and freight docks, established in 1868 during Japan’s opening to foreign trade. It symbolized the fusion of Western architecture and Japanese craftsmanship, seen in surviving landmarks like the Kobe Port Tower and Old Kobe Post Office. Each spring, the Kobe Kaikō Festival reenacts historic port activity with traditional performances, food stalls, and vintage ship displays. Today, Tsurugise stands as a living museum of Kobe’s global connections—preserving its legacy while evolving into a vibrant cultural and tourist hub.