Kobe Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Kobe in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Kobe, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 150 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Kobe, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Kobe Airbnb data is crucial. Navigating the high regulation landscape is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.

Key Kobe Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$121
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Kobe.
Occupancy Rate(?)
43.5%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$17,190
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Kobe. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-3.0%
Slight decrease (-3.0%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
May
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Kobe.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
September
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Kobe.
STR Regulation Level(?)
High
Strict regulations. Compliance is crucial (licensing, taxes, stay limits may apply).
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
150
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Kobe (2025)

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Kobe is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Seasonality significantly impacts earnings. Our analysis, based on data from the past 12 months, shows that the peak revenue month for STRs in Kobe is typically May, while September often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Kobe across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $3,280+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,258 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,214 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $512, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Kobe

Kobe Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Kobe STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Novembersees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while September experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Kobe:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 84%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 64% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 38%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 19% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Kobe

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Kobe (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Kobe involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Kobe typically peaks in April and dips lowest during February. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $255+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $150 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $98 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $54 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Kobe

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Kobe (2025)

Peak Season (May, December, April)
  • Revenue averages $1,889 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 45.1%
  • Daily rates average $132
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $1,618 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 43.7%
  • Daily rates hold near $129
Low Season (January, February, September)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,320 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 38.3%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $124

Seasonality Insights for Kobe

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Kobe shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it's also insightful to look at the extremes:
  • During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Kobe's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $1,976, occupancy reaching a high of 49.6%, and ADRs peaking at $136.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month of the year, typically falling within the low season, marks the market's lowest point. In this month, revenue might dip to $1,150, occupancy could drop to 34.6%, and ADRs may adjust down to $119.
  • Understanding both the seasonal averages and these monthly peaks and troughs in revenue, occupancy, and ADR is crucial for maximizing your Airbnb profit potential in Kobe.

Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit

  • Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability.
  • Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, special promotions (e.g., extended stay discounts), and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers or budget-conscious guests.
  • Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that balances peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers or specific events. Offer slightly more flexible terms than peak season.
  • Regularly analyze your own performance against these Kobe seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Kobe (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Kobe? This section highlights key areas, outlining why they are attractive for hosts and guests, along with notable local attractions. Consider these locations based on your target guest profile and investment strategy.

Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Kobe Harborland
A vibrant waterfront area filled with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Perfect for tourists who want to enjoy the seaside views and access attractions easily.
Kobe Port Tower, Kobe Maritime Museum, Meriken Park, Kobe Anpanman Children's Museum, Umie, Kobe Harborland Mosaic
Nankinmachi (Chinatown)
Known for its rich history and vibrant food scene, this area attracts visitors interested in culture and unique culinary experiences.
Nankinmachi Shopping Street, Kobe Chinatown, Chinese temples, Street food stalls, Kobe Beef restaurants
Kitano-cho
Famous for its preserved Western-style houses and historical significance. A draw for tourists interested in architecture and history.
Kitano Ijinkan-Gai, Kobe Fashion Museum, Old foreign residences, The Weathercock House
Sannomiya
The bustling heart of Kobe, offering abundant shopping, dining, and nightlife options, attracting a diverse range of visitors.
Sannomiya Center Street, Kobe International Hall, Kobe Sanjo Walk, Kobe City Museum
Rokko Mountain
A natural escape offering breathtaking views of the city and is popular for outdoor activities, appealing to nature lovers and hikers.
Mount Rokko, Rokko Garden Terrace, Rokko Cable Car, Kobe Fashion Museum
Arima Onsen
Famous hot spring area that attracts those looking for relaxation and traditional Japanese onsen experiences.
Arima Hot Springs, Arima Onsen Museum, Zuiho Temple, Tosenjiyu Shrine
Meriken Park
This scenic park by the sea is a popular spot for relaxation and events, ideal for families and tourists looking for outdoor experiences.
Meriken Park, Kobe Port Tower, Kobe Maritime Museum, Meriken Park Promenade
Tarumi Ward (Wakayama Beach)
A more laid-back beach area, perfect for vacationers looking for seaside relaxation away from the city hustle.
Wakayama Beach, Shuutokuji Temple, Kantou Beach, local seafood restaurants

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Kobe (2025)

Yes, Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan enforces high STR regulations. Obtaining a license and ensuring compliance is almost certainly required according to current 2025 STR laws. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Kobe to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 81% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Kobe (2025)

Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Kobebased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.

[Arima Onsen] Family/Groups/Vacation Homes/Hot Springs 5 seconds on foot

[Arima Onsen] Family/Groups/Vacation Homes/Hot Springs 5 seconds on foot

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$95,344
Revenue
65.1%
Occupancy
$350.49
Daily Rate
Entire fully renovated old house

Entire fully renovated old house

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$88,100
Revenue
67.5%
Occupancy
$353.18
Daily Rate
【Kobe Arima onsen】5 Bed Private Villa

【Kobe Arima onsen】5 Bed Private Villa

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$63,777
Revenue
51.7%
Occupancy
$270.31
Daily Rate
[WiFi102 · 103] Up to 9 people!Kobe Motomachi, feel glamping in the room!

[WiFi102 · 103] Up to 9 people!Kobe Motomachi, feel glamping in the room!

Private Room • 2 bedrooms

$57,520
Revenue
81.6%
Occupancy
$192.58
Daily Rate
HOTELe r/ Walking Distance to Sannomiya/12ppl/2LDK

HOTELe r/ Walking Distance to Sannomiya/12ppl/2LDK

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$53,397
Revenue
57.8%
Occupancy
$302.71
Daily Rate
HOTELe r/ Walking Distance to Sannomiya/12ppl/2LDK

HOTELe r/ Walking Distance to Sannomiya/12ppl/2LDK

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$52,003
Revenue
53.3%
Occupancy
$318.82
Daily Rate

Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.

Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Kobe (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Kobe based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.

Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
Taro8$249,93411994.92/5.0
Yuriko6$194,1038414.89/5.0
辰明5$143,446994.81/5.0
Hop14$143,0981182.57/5.0
Ren-Est5$137,2638594.90/5.0
Goto2$105,4004284.37/5.0
よしだ1$88,100934.83/5.0
Kanami3$75,4645784.82/5.0
Atoo8$73,0061914.25/5.0
Nana4$65,6157124.86/5.0

Analyzing the strategies of top hosts, such as their property selection, pricing, and guest communication, can offer valuable lessons for optimizing your own Airbnb operations in Kobe.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Kobe STR Market Data (2025)

Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Kobe. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.

Explore Advanced Metrics

Kobe Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Kobe

  • The Kobe Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 62% of the 150 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • However, a notable 24% share for Private Rooms suggests opportunities for budget-conscious travelers or hosts renting out spare rooms.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Kobe, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (46.7%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 26.7% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 19.3% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.

Kobe Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Kobe

  • The dominant room capacity in Kobe is 1 bedroom listings, making up 40.7% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 68.0% of the active Airbnb listings in Kobe, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.

Kobe Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Kobe

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Kobe vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (24%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 2 guests dominate the Kobe STR market, accounting for 36.7% of listings.
  • 39.3% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Kobe.
  • On average, properties in Kobe are equipped to host 4.3 guests.

Kobe Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Kobe

  • The most common availability pattern in Kobe falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 32.7% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 64.0% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 91-180 days range is most frequent in Kobe (32.7%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 36.7% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Kobe Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (77.3%)

1 Night

109 listings

77.3% of total

2 Nights (13.5%)

2 Nights

19 listings

13.5% of total

3 Nights (0.7%)

3 Nights

1 listings

0.7% of total

7-29 Nights (2.1%)

7-29 Nights

3 listings

2.1% of total

30+ Nights (6.4%)

30+ Nights

9 listings

6.4% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Kobe is 1 Night, adopted by 77.3% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (90.8%) of the Kobe Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 77.3% of Kobe hosts use this setting.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 6.4% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Kobe.

Kobe Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (17.5%)

Flexible

24 listings

17.5% of total

Moderate (29.2%)

Moderate

40 listings

29.2% of total

Firm (22.6%)

Firm

31 listings

22.6% of total

Strict (30.7%)

Strict

42 listings

30.7% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Kobe

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Kobe is Strict, used by 30.7% of listings.
  • A majority (53.3%) of hosts in Kobe utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Strict policy to align with the 30.7% market standard in Kobe.
  • With 30.7% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Kobe, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Kobe.

Kobe STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Kobe

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Kobe is 40 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during April (average 54 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in September (average 36 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Spring (50 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Fall (39 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (40 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Kobe.
  • For April stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 54 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 50 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Kobe averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Kobe (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Kobe

  • Essential amenities in Kobe that guests expect include: Wifi, Air conditioning, Fire extinguisher. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Smoke alarm, Hair dryer, Essentials are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Kobe: Wifi, Air conditioning, Fire extinguisher.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Air conditioning, Fire extinguisher.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Smoke alarm or Hair dryer to increase appeal.
  • Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
  • Regularly check competitor amenities in Kobe to stay competitive.

Kobe Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)

Guest Origin: Domestic vs. International
Top 5 Cities of Origin
Top 5 Countries of Origin
Top 5 Languages Spoken
Guest Age Distribution (Birth Decade)

Guest Profile Summary for Kobe

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Kobe consists of predominantly international visitors (76%), with top international origins including United States, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Japanese.
  • Domestic travelers account for 24.0% of guests.
  • Key international markets include Japan (24%) and United States (15.5%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (41.2%) followed by Japanese (17.7%).
  • A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Focus marketing internationally, particularly towards travelers from United States.
  • Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
  • Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
  • Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.

Nearby Short-Term Rental Market Comparison

How does the Kobe Airbnb market stack up against its neighbors? Compare key performance metrics like average monthly revenue, ADR, and occupancy rates in surrounding areas to understand the broader regional STR landscape.

MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
Minamiawaji28$4,182$361.6741%
Shima32$3,426$228.8047%
Awaji87$3,352$266.9841%
Kyoto3,288$3,051$179.3058%
Sanuki28$2,629$160.4240%
Sumoto45$2,497$216.1634%
Kuwana20$2,285$153.7856%
Nagoya457$2,217$129.7859%
Tamba-Sasayama11$2,210$161.6749%
Tonosho49$2,136$136.8247%

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