Public transportation in Kobe, Japan is efficient, reliable, and diverse, making it a viable option for both locals and expats. The city boasts a comprehensive network of transportation systems including the Kobe Municipal Subway, JR (Japan Railways) lines, Hankyu Railway, Hanshin Electric Railway, and the Port Liner and Rokko Liner automated guideway transit systems. There are also numerous bus services and ferries. With such a robust public transportation system, it’s entirely possible for an expat living in Kobe to comfortably live without a car, relying on these systems and walking.
Kobe Municipal Subway
The Kobe Municipal Subway is a key part of the city’s public transportation system. It consists of two lines: the Seishin-Yamate Line and the Kaigan Line. The subway is safe to use at all times of the day and night, and it’s not uncommon to see women traveling alone or children using the subway to get to school. A one-way ticket costs between 210 and 350 yen, depending on the distance traveled. The Seishin-Yamate Line connects the city center with the western suburbs, while the Kaigan Line runs along the coast, providing easy access to the port and the man-made islands of Port Island and Rokko Island.
JR Lines
The JR Kobe Line, part of the extensive network of Japan Railways, is another important transportation option in Kobe. It connects Kobe with other major cities in the region, including Osaka and Himeji. The line is safe, reliable, and punctual, with trains running frequently throughout the day. The cost of a ticket varies depending on the distance, but a trip from Kobe to Osaka, for example, costs around 410 yen. The JR Kobe Line also provides access to the Shinkansen (bullet train) at Shin-Kobe Station, offering high-speed connections to other parts of Japan.
Hankyu Railway and Hanshin Electric Railway
The Hankyu Kobe Line and the Hanshin Main Line are two private railway lines that connect Kobe with Osaka. Both lines are safe and reliable, with trains running every few minutes. The fare for a one-way trip from Kobe to Osaka is 320 yen on the Hankyu Line and 310 yen on the Hanshin Line. These lines are particularly popular among commuters, as they offer a faster and more direct connection to Osaka than the JR Kobe Line.
Port Liner and Rokko Liner
The Port Liner and Rokko Liner are automated guideway transit systems that serve the man-made islands of Port Island and Rokko Island, respectively. These driverless trains provide a unique and convenient way to get around these islands. The Port Liner, in particular, is notable for connecting Kobe Airport with the city center. A one-way trip on the Port Liner costs between 200 and 330 yen, while a trip on the Rokko Liner costs 250 yen.
Buses and Ferries
In addition to the various rail services, Kobe also has an extensive network of bus routes that cover areas not served by the trains. The city buses are safe and reliable, though they can be slower than the trains due to traffic. The fare for a city bus is typically 210 yen. Kobe also has several ferry services that provide connections to the nearby Awaji Island and other destinations. The ferries offer a scenic and relaxing way to travel, though they are generally slower and more expensive than the trains.
