Hyogo Prefecture occupies the heart of western Honshu, stretching from the rugged Sea of Japan coast to the warm Seto Inland Sea, anchored by the cosmopolitan port city of Kobe. It shelters Japan's most photogenic castle at Himeji, the ancient hot-spring village of Arima Onsen, the world-famous Kobe beef ranches of the Tajima highlands, and the island of Awaji, birthplace of Japanese mythology.
Hyogo Prefecture, including Kobe, is one of Japan's safest destinations. Violent crime is extremely rare and tourists are rarely targeted. The main risks are natural disasters (earthquakes — the region was severely impacted by the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake), occasional summer typhoons, and minor urban petty theft in busy areas.
Current safety advisory
Very Safe
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
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- Medical Care
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- Kobe has excellent hospitals. Kobe City Medical Centre General Hospital (+81-78-302-4321) has English-speaking staff. Carry travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage.
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- Tap Water
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- Tap water is safe to drink throughout Hyogo Prefecture. Kobe's municipal water supply is regularly monitored.
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- Medications
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- Many common Western medications are unavailable or sold under different names. Bring sufficient supply for the trip. Pharmacies (Matsumoto Kiyoshi, Tsuruha Drug) are widely available.
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- Vaccinations
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- No specific vaccinations required for Hyogo. Japan-wide recommendation to be up to date on routine vaccines (MMR, influenza, COVID-19).
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- Heat
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- July–August temperatures regularly exceed 35°C (95°F). Stay hydrated; vending machines selling cold water and sports drinks are on every major street (¥130–160/$0.90–1.10).
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
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