Certified Itinerary Manager 
Tour Conductor 

Gerard

Gerard first came to Japan in 2001, and moved to Himeji in 2003. So you benefit  from his 20+ years of exploring the area, working with regional attractions,   and networking with local artisans to curate for you Hyogo’s best experiences and  the hidden gems of Himeji and Kobe.  
Gerard is a Certified Itinerary Manager and Tour Conductor & the creator of  
Facebook Group Go to Japan (Tour Ideas and Travel Planning)  
He works with several tour companies to deliver tours of Himeji and Kobe for their  clients, such as Boutique Japan (TX,USA), Hidden Japan (JPN), The Real Japan (UK)  Okini Japan (JPN), Cruise Port Navigation (CA, USA), Travelun (AUS) 
 

Government licensed Guide

Hideto Aoki

Having traveled the world as a merchant marine, Hideto Aoki, an
English-speaking National Government Licensed Guide
Interpreter, brings his love for travel and storytelling to every tour.
His deep knowledge of Kobe makes these destinations
unforgettable.
 

Welcome to Japan Representative

Marie Akisawa

Tour coordinator

Yoshie Kurimasa

Uontana, though it may sound non-Japanese, is the name of the most renowned seafood market in the Kansai region. Nestled at the far edge of Kobe, this hidden treasure remains relatively unknown to those outside the city. Its location, slightly off the beaten path, has spared it from the challenges of over-tourism, preserving its authentic charm. As you step into Uontana, you'll be greeted by vibrant flags hanging from the ceiling—symbols of bountiful catches and blessings from the sea. These unique touches set Uontana apart from more tourist-heavy markets like Kuromon and Nishiki.
If you’re looking to savor seafood fresh from the ocean and connect with the local community, Uontana is the perfect destination. Dive into its delightful offerings and experience the heart of Kobe’s coastal culture.
 

The area surrounding today’s Maiko Park, historically known as Maiko Beach, has long captivated visitors with its breathtaking scenery. Renowned for its pristine white sands, lush green pines, and a stunning view of the world’s second-longest suspension bridge, it has been cherished by Western residents and locals alike. During the Edo period, the internationally celebrated ukiyo-e artist Hiroshige Utagawa (1797–1858), famed for his masterpiece series “The Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido,” immortalized the enchanting beauty of Maiko Beach in his work “Harima Maiko no Hama.” His portrayal highlights the timeless allure of this coastal gem.
 

Tsunasiki Tenmangu in Suma.   （綱敷天満宮） Japan is basically the VIP lounge of the spirit world, with over 8 million deities hanging around. And with more than 80,000 shrines across the country, it’s like a divine Airbnb situation. Why so many? Because the Japanese have a deep respect (and maybe a healthy fear) of nature. Mountains, rivers, oceans—everything’s got a spirit in it, so better to worship than risk getting on their bad side.
But not all shrines are about nature. Some take a different route and honor legendary historical figures. Enter Tenmangu Shrines, dedicated to the brilliant Sugawara no Michizane. And then there’s Tsunashiki Tenmangu, which takes things to the next level—because here, Michizane isn’t just enshrined, he’s catching waves! Yes, this shrine honors him holding a surfboard, making it the holy ground for local surfers. They come here to pay respects, pray for better waves, and maybe, just maybe, hope for some divine help landing that perfect barrel.
 

Rising to 253 meters, Mt. Hatafuri-yama marks the westernmost tip of the Rokko mountain range and holds a special place in the hearts of Kobe’s citizens. Easily accessible by a scenic ropeway ride with the shimmering sea at your back, this mountain promises an unforgettable experience. At the summit station, Hachibushi Summit Station, you’ll find the breathtaking Higashi Tenbodai Observation Deck. From this vantage point, feast your eyes on the spectacular panorama of Kobe City, the serene islands of the Seto Inland Sea, and the iconic Akashi Kaikyo Bridge—all in a single, awe-inspiring glance.
 

Despite its relatively short history of less than 150 years, Kobe stands as one of the most diverse and inclusive cities in Japan. Its role as a gateway to the world is both profound and often overlooked. Few realize that on this very stone wall—just a 20-minute walk from Sannomiya—once stood the office of Japan’s largest Jewish community. In 1940 and 1941, on the brink of the Pacific War, this area became a vital sanctuary for nearly 5,000 Jewish refugees fleeing persecution in Europe. The people of Kobe welcomed them with open arms, fostering deep and heartfelt connections until the refugees embarked on new journeys to the wider world.
 

"Shinkaichi: A Glittering Gem of the Past" As you step through the uniquely designed gate of Shinkaichi—painted blue on the right and red on the left, shaped like the upper body of a human—you'll find yourself entering a district that sparks curiosity and imagination. Who might this figure represent? That’s for you to ponder as you explore!
Shinkaichi is a neighborhood rich in character, often misunderstood by outsiders but brimming with warmth, humanity, and goodwill. While places like Nishiki Market in Kyoto and Kuromon in Osaka have been adapted for international visitors, Shinkaichi remains an authentic slice of Japan—untouched, vibrant, and deeply connected to local life.
If you’re eager to experience the true spirit of Japan’s working-class culture, with its unfiltered charm and genuine community, Shinkaichi is the perfect place to visit. Come with an open mind, and you’ll leave with a heart full of unforgettable memories!
 

Step Back in Time: Experience the Vibrant Spirit of Showa in Kobe’s Sinkaichi The Showa era (1926–1989), named after Emperor Hirohito’s reign, was one of Japan’s most transformative periods. It witnessed the turbulence of the Japan-China War, the Pacific War, and the nation’s remarkable post-WWII recovery.
Though over 35 years have passed, one place still pulses with the charm and character of Showa Japan—Sinkaichi in Kobe. Once known as the "Asakusa of the West," this nostalgic neighborhood offers a rare glimpse into everyday life from a bygone era. Here, you can savor authentic, budget-friendly flavors beloved by locals for generations.
For food lovers craving an authentic taste of Japan, Sinkaichi is a hidden gem you can’t afford to miss!
 

Just a stone’s throw from Shin-Kobe Station, the Takenaka Carpenters Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the secrets behind Japan’s enduring wooden structures. Ever wondered how the country’s temples and shrines have withstood centuries of earthquakes and natural disasters? This museum unravels the history of Japanese architecture and the masterful craftsmanship of carpenters who perfected intricate woodworking techniques over generations. Before heading to Kyoto or Nara, take a moment to explore this hidden gem—you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the iconic wooden structures that define Japan’s cultural heritage.
Bonus: English explanations are available!
 

Herb Garden The ropeway connecting ShinKobe Station to the Herb Garden offers breathtaking panoramic views of Kobe Port and the most stunning aerial perspective of the Nunobiki Falls. But that’s not all—one of the highlights of the Herb Garden is its Fragrance Museum, where you can even create your very own signature scent. A visit to Kobe wouldn't be complete without riding on this incredible ropeway to experience this unforgettable destination.
 

Nunobiki-no-Taki　布引の滝 Can you believe that just a 20-minute hike from Shin-Kobe Station can transport you into a world reminiscent of a Ghibli film? Nunobiki-no-Taki, a collective name for four waterfalls, has long been revered as a sacred site in Shinto tradition. Along the trail, you'll encounter two enchanting waterfalls, aptly named 'Female' and 'Male.' These falls are fed by pristine waters from a reservoir designed by a foreign visionary, which also serves as the source of the renowned sake from the Nada-Gogo region.
 

Futatabi Park, nestled along the picturesque Futatabi Driveway, lies just a 30-minute drive from Sannomiya, the vibrant heart of Kobe. This serene haven offers a retreat into nature, inviting visitors to revel in seasonal beauty—whether in the vibrant hues of azaleas that herald spring or the red and green tapestry of autumn leaves mirrored in tranquil waters.
The park also serves as a pivotal gateway to renowned hiking routes, including the Rokko Zenzan Traverse and Daishi-michi, making it a cherished destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Adding a historical dimension, the park encompasses the Kobe Foreign Cemetery, a poignant testament to those who dedicated their lives to the growth and prosperity of Kobe.
 

Nada Gogo is also the birthplace of Judo, a worldwide renowned Japanese martial arts If you wander through Nada Gogo, you might stumble upon a tiny open space between Kikumasa and Hakutsuru.
At first glance, it may seem insignificant—but a simple whiteboard reveals its remarkable history.
This modest spot is the birthplace of Kano Jigoro, the visionary who founded Kodokan Judo. To Judo practitioners around the world, he is a revered figure, making this very place the cradle of Judo itself.
Yet, despite its profound significance, many locals remain unaware of its existence—a quiet, almost forgotten tribute to a man who shaped martial arts history.
 

Nada-Gogo is a sake lover's paradise, home to a collection of renowned, long-established breweries lined up side by side. For just 500 yen, you can savor exceptional sake brands that compete to offer the finest flavors. Stop by just three of these fantastic spots, and you'll find yourself in sake heaven!
When you order sake in your home country, you might learn how to describe your sound choice, even if you can't recognize the label.
 

Nada Gogo: The Drunker Disneyland for Sake Lovers
If Japan had a theme park dedicated to sake, Nada Gogo would be the main attraction. This legendary region isn’t just a big deal—it’s the big deal in Seishu production, churning out a whopping quarter of the country’s supply. With its abundance of breweries, it’s practically a utopia for sake enthusiasts, where tastings flow as freely as the enthusiasm of those sampling them—all for the unbeatable price of free.
Armed with a tiny tasting cup (your trusty sidekick on this adventure), you’ll get to sample Daiginjo, Junmaiginjo, and Junmai at each brewery, sharpening your sake senses as you go. With five breweries lined up from Hamafukutsuru to Fukujyu, this liquid journey is engineered for maximum enjoyment with minimal financial damage. In other words, it’s your express ticket to “Drunker Heaven.”
And if that’s not enticing enough, you might even bump into a former Toji—a master sake brewer with wisdom and wit; he’ll entertain you with stories, secrets, and the occasional exaggerated hand gesture to ensure you walk away not just a little tipsy, but also a little more enlightened.