Kobe is one of Japan’s major cities, having developed around its international trading port. Many foreigners have moved here, and it has developed into an international city while constantly incorporating diverse cultures from overseas.
In this article, we will introduce 7 must-see nightlife spots so you can enjoy Kobe at night.
Highlights and characteristics of Kobe at night
Kobe is known as one of Japan’s leading port cities. As a result, it is characterized by many tourist spots related to the sea. In addition, with the opening of Kobe Port, many Chinese people have immigrated to Kobe. “Nankinmachi”, which still preserves Chinese cuisine and culture, is also an attractive spot.
There are many other popular spots for tourists, such as observation decks that offer a panoramic view of the city of Kobe. Speaking of Kobe, you can’t leave out the cuisine made with Kobe beef. Kobe beef steak is recognized as a world-famous gourmet food.
As you can see, Kobe’s nightlife spots are characterized by the wide variety of ways to enjoy yourself, including various tourist spots and gourmet food.
Nightlife spots in Kobe
Recommended #1: Meriken Park
Meriken Park is a park located in Kobe Port, one of Japan’s leading ports. There are various facilities on the premises, making it a popular tourist spot. You can enjoy the atmosphere of the port city of Kobe by taking a leisurely stroll along the sea while feeling the sea breeze and admiring the illuminated night view.
“Kobe Port Tower” located in Meriken Park is a Kobe landmark. You can see Kobe Port and the Kobe cityscape from the observation deck on the top floor. “Kawasaki World” in Meriken Park is also a recommended spot for motorbike enthusiasts. Here, Kawasaki’s motorbike models through the ages are displayed. It will definitely be an attractive place not to be missed for motorbike enthusiasts.
▶ Information
| Official website | https://www.feel-kobe.jp/ |
|---|
▶ Map
▶ Recommended information
There are various photo spots within Meriken Park. The “BE KOBE” monument is particularly popular, with people lining up to take a photo. “BE KOBE” is a message that was created on the 20th anniversary of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. It represents “people’s pride in being Kobe citizens”.
Recommended #2: Nankinmachi
Nankinmachi is a Chinatown in Kobe. It is known as one of the three largest Chinatowns in Japan, along with Yokohama Chinatown and Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown. It features Chinese-style streets and is lined with about 100 stores selling Chinese cuisine, Chinese sweets, and Chinese miscellaneous goods. It is a popular spot bustling with locals and tourists alike.
There are many Chinese restaurants in Nankinmachi, so choosing a restaurant for dinner is also a fun part of the experience. Or you can also buy dumplings and xiaolongbao to eat while walking around. Nankinmachi Square, located in the center of Nankinmachi, is also a great photo spot. It is lit up at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere.
▶ Information
| Official website | https://www.nankinmachi.or.jp/ |
|---|
▶ Map
▶ Recommended information
“Spring Festival” is held every year from late January to early February to celebrate the Lunar New Year. You can watch traditional Chinese art performances such as dragon and lion dances. The festival attracts a large number of visitors every year.
Recommended #3: Rokko Garden Terrace
Rokko Garden Terrace is a leisure spot that includes an observation deck, commercial facilities, restaurants. Located on top of Mount Rokko, it offers a panoramic view of Kobe city. The night view from Mount Rokko is so beautiful that it is known as the “Night view worth 10 million dollars” and is also known as one of the most beautiful night views in Japan.
The most recommended spot for night views at Rokko Garden Terrace is the “Nature Experience Observation Deck Rokko Shidare”. This observation deck combines night views with art, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic atmosphere. You can also enjoy dinner at the restaurant next door while watching the night view.
▶ Information
| Official website | https://www.rokkosan.com/gt/ |
|---|
▶ Map
▶ Recommended information
The official website of Rokko Garden Terrace introduces recommended model itineraries to help you enjoy your visit even more. There are different types of model itineraries introduced, from those for couples to those for families, so please take a look.
Recommended #4: Kikuseidai Observation Deck at Mount Maya
“Kikuseidai Observation Deck at Mount Maya” is an observation plaza near the summit of Mount Maya. The night view from Kikuseidai is known as one of the “Three Great Night Views of Japan”. Below, you can see the lively night scene stretching from Kobe to Osaka. It has become a famous spot where you can enjoy night views that go even beyond the starry sky.
You can get to Kikuseidai by bus or car, or by cable car and ropeway. The night view from the ropeway is also spectacular, so we recommend it. There is also a cafe called “CAFE 702” on the second floor of the ropeway’s arrival point, “Hoshi no Eki”. There, you can enjoy light meals and drinks while watching the night view.
▶ Information
| Official website | https://kobe-rokko.jp/nightview-3/ |
|---|
▶ Map
Recommended #5: The Kobe Cruise CONCERTO
“The Kobe Cruise CONCERTO” is a day cruise departing from Kobe Port. You can enjoy an authentic dinner and live music while taking in various night views, such as the Kobe cityscape, the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, and Kobe Airport floating on the sea. The cruise takes about two hours.
This is a popular spot for tourists as it is a spot that is typical of the port city of Kobe. For dinner, besides an authentic course meal where you can fully enjoy Kobe beef, there is also a children’s menu. Therefore, it is a great place for couples to enjoy a luxurious experience, and children will also be able to enjoy it to their heart’s content. It is a tourist spot recommended for a variety of people.
▶ Information
| Official website | https://thekobecruise.com/ |
|---|
▶ Map
Recommended #6: Kobe Steak Restaurant Mouriya Honten
“Kobe Steak Restaurant Mouriya Honten” is a historic, traditional steakhouse. With a track record of around 140 years of serving Kobe beef, you can enjoy delicious Kobe beef with peace of mind. In addition, the restaurant serves Teppanyaki style food, where the beef is grilled right in front of you, so you can watch the chefs cook.
Many tourists visit Mouriya. For that reason, they offer English and Chinese language service. They also provide detailed explanations about the meat, so you can choose the cut of meat that suits your taste. This is a restaurant recommended as a highlight in Kobe tourism, where you can enjoy premium Kobe beef.
▶ Information
| Official website | https://www.mouriya.co.jp/head |
|---|
▶ Map
Recommended #7: Kobe Sannomiya Yokocho
(Source: https://www.world-one-group.co.jp/brand_detail/hyogo/)
“Kobe Sannomiya Yokocho” is an Izakaya that serves Sake and local cuisine from Hyogo Prefecture. It is a popular spot because you can eat a variety of local dishes in an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and Japanese festival-like. There are 18 booths inside the store, each serving its own unique local cuisine and Sake.
Kobe is a city in Hyogo Prefecture, so of course local Kobe cuisine is also served. You can also enjoy dishes using Kobe beef. There are over 150 kinds of local dishes to enjoy, and there is also an all-you-can-drink Sake menu. Therefore, it is a recommended restaurant for gourmets.
▶ Information
| Official website | https://www.world-one-group.co.jp/ |
|---|
Comment