[2026] Top 12 Recommended Tourist Spots in Kobe for Parents and Children to Enjoy!

In 2025, the second terminal building at Kobe Airport will open, and international charter flights connecting Kobe with Seoul, Nanjing, Shanghai, Taipei, and Taichung will begin operations!   With this new development, some travelers may be considering using Kobe as a base for their trip to Japan. In this article, we introduce recommended sightseeing spots for parents and children!   Index Kobe: A City Full of Family-Friendly Attractions! Spots for Parents and Children(1) Kobe Airport Spots for parents and Children(2) Kobe Anpanman Children’s Museum and Mall Spots for Parents and Children(3) Kobe Harborland umie Spots for Parents and Children(4) Meriken Park (BE KOBE Monument) Spots for Parents and Children(5) Kobe Port Tower Spots for Parents and Children(6) Kobe Maritime Museum Spots for Parents and Children(7) Kawasaki World Spots for Parents and Children(8) AQUARIUM × ART átoa Spots for Parents and Children(9) Kobe Animal Kingdom Spots for Parents and Children(10) Kobe Mysterious Consulate of Trick Art Spots for Parents and Children(11) Rokko Athletic Park GREENIA Spots for Parents and Children(12) Rokko Snow Park Recommended Family-Friendly Sightseeing in Kobe! At the heart of Kobe lies Sannomiya, a vibrant district offering a perfect blend of nature, shopping, and gourmet delights. Explore shopping destinations like Kobe Hankyu and bustling shopping streets, savor Kobe beef, teppanyaki, and Fugetsudo’s famous sweets, or immerse yourself in the city’s romantic harbor scenery. Take a ropeway up to the Mt. Rokko area, where you’ll find scenic attractions and outdoor fun—all within a compact and easily navigable city.   Kobe is especially family-friendly, with plenty of exciting spots for kids, including interactive activity centers, zoos, aquariums, theme parks featuring popular characters, and transport museums.   Getting to Kobe is easy—it’s just a 20-minute direct train ride from Kobe Airport to Sannomiya and about 30 minutes from Osaka to Sannomiya, making it a great choice for trips with children.   Now, let’s explore some of the best spots for families to enjoy in Kobe! This eye-catching broccoli-shaped tree sculpture is a must-see at the rooftop deck of Kobe Airport! Created by renowned miniature photographer and artist Tatsuya Tanaka, this impressive piece is part of a permanent exhibition that reimagines Kobe, airplanes, and the airport through artistic displays. You can also find more of his works inside the terminal building—be sure to check them out during your visit! A theme park based on the Japanese anime character “Anpanman,” beloved by children and adults alike. It’s conveniently located just an 8-minute walk from Kobe Station. Thanks to the indoor setting, you can enjoy your visit rain or shine.   The second-floor museum realistically recreates scenes from Anpanman’s world, with daily stage shows and plenty of fun playground equipment. In the first-floor shopping mall, there are many limited goods and food that can only be found here. There’s also a restaurant with a dine-in area. Uncle Jam’s Bakery is one of the most popular shops for its wide selection of character-themed bread.   *There’s an admission fee for the second floor, but it’s free to enter the shopping mall. For more details, please check Kobe Anpanman Children’s Museum & Mall official website. Located along Kobe Port, Kobe Harborland umie is a shopping and dining complex where you can enjoy local Kobe cuisine and a variety of shops. The food court features a special kids’ space, making it ideal for families with young children. Don’t miss the giant Ferris wheel, which lights up with over 120,000 LEDs at night, creating a dazzling spectacle! Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, Meriken Park is a Kobe essential! This scenic waterfront park offers stunning views of the harbor, iconic landmarks like the red Kobe Port Tower, the white wave-like structure of the Kobe Maritime Museum, and the surrounding mountains and large ships. Don’t forget to take a memorable photo in front of the “BE KOBE” monument!   ▼Check this article▼ First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course Located in Meriken Park, Kobe Port Tower is an iconic symbol of the city and a must-visit for families! While the tower is impressive from the outside, don’t miss the chance to step inside for an unforgettable experience.   At the rooftop deck, which stands about 100 meters above the ground, you’ll find a glass-walled open-air walkway offering panoramic views of Kobe, beautifully framed by the mountains and the sea. For a unique experience, visit the café & bar inside the tower, where the floor slowly rotates, allowing you to enjoy a 360-degree view as you relax! If your child is fascinated by boats and ships, the Kobe Maritime Museum is the perfect place to visit! This striking wave-shaped building in Meriken Park is home to exhibits that explore the history and technology of ships and maritime culture. For international visitors, the museum offers free multilingual guides (English, Korean, Simplified & Traditional Chinese) through a downloadable app.   Inside, you’ll find massive ship models and even a ship navigation simulator for an exciting hands-on experience! Trains, ships, airplanes, motorcycles—Kawasaki World brings together all kinds of vehicles that kids love! This corporate museum by Kawasaki Heavy Industries, a global leader in shipbuilding, railways, aviation, and motorcycles, is located on the 1st floor of the Kobe Maritime Museum. Here, children can step into the driver’s seat of an actual 0 Series Shinkansen or sit inside a real helicopter cabin, making for an unforgettable hands-on experience that will spark their imagination and excitement! Located in the Kobe Port area, this theater-style aquarium seamlessly blends marine life with art, creating a sensory experience through light, sound, and even scent. The result is a fantastical and immersive space that captivates not just children but also adults. On the 4th floor, the “átoa cafe” offers adorable and photogenic dishes inspired by animals, perfect for a delightful break. Additionally, within the same building, you’ll find one of Kobe’s largest food halls, where you can savor local specialties, including a Kobe beef burger! A favorite among international visitors, Kobe Animal Kingdom is a unique zoo where flowers, people, and animals coexist in harmony. Here, you can watch birds soaring dynamically through the sky, feed penguins and capybaras, or even hold an owl on your arm for an unforgettable experience! Located just one stop from Kobe Airport, this all-weather facility ensures a great time rain or shine, making it a perfect family-friendly destination.   ▼For more details▼ 4 Recommended Zoos to Visit in Kobe It is located at the famous Kitano Ijinkan-Gai in Kobe.   This attraction lets you step inside trick art illusions and take hilarious, mind-bending photos! While instructions are only in Japanese, anyone can enjoy the interactive exhibits by simply seeing, touching, and snapping fun pictures. Pose in front of Kobe-themed artwork, like a giant Kobe beef dish or the iconic Kobe Port Tower, and create memorable snapshots with your family! * To prevent crowding, visitors are guided in small groups—please follow staff instructions.   ▼Check this article▼ 10 BEST Museums and Art Galleries in Kobe Rokko Mountain Athletic Park GREENIA is located in the lush, nature-filled Mt.Rokko area.   It is one of Japan’s largest athletic parks, featuring 164 activity stations spread across a vast landscape. With challenges like barrel bridges, floating water obstacles, and thrilling slides, kids can test their bravery and athletic skills. Parents who prefer a more relaxed experience can use alternative routes, ensuring a fun-filled day for everyone!   ▼For more details▼ One of the largest athletic facilities in Japan　Rokkosan Athletic Park GREENIA Report! From late November to early March, Mt. Rokko transforms into a winter wonderland with its artificial ski resort, perfect for visitors looking to enjoy the snow without traveling far!   No need to bring your own gear—skiwear, skis, and snowboards are all available for rent. Plus, ski and snowboard lessons for international visitors are offered, making it a great place for beginners. For families with young children, the Snowland area provides a safe and fun space for sledding and playing in the snow, making it ideal for a child’s first snow experience.   ▼For more details▼ Playing in the snow at Rokko Snow Park! What to do when you take your kids there! Some children may be experiencing international travel for the first time. From toddlers to elementary and middle school students, we hope that visiting Kobe will be an opportunity for them to discover and appreciate Japanese culture and the charm of Japan. Wishing you all a wonderful and fulfilling journey!   ▼Check this article▼ 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals Kobe・Sumaura Sanjo Amusement Park｜Retro Rides, Stunning Seto Inland Sea Views, and Spectacular Cherry Blossoms

First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course

Where is the best place to visit in Kobe? What to eat? The following is a list of major sightseeing spots and attractions recommended for first-time visitors to Kobe!   -INDEX- 〇Sightseeing Spots in Kobe １．Ikuta Shrine ２．Kitano Ijinkan Gai ３．Kitano Tenma Shrine ４．Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway ５．Sorakuen garden ６．Nankinmachi ７．The Former Foreign Settlement Of Kobe ８．Meriken Park (BE KOBE Monument) ９．Kobe Port Tower １０．Kobe Harborland umie １１．Kobe Bay Cruise １２．AQUARIUM×ART átoa １３．Kobe Animal Kingdom １４．Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art １５．Nada Gogo １６．Mt. Rokko area １７．Arima Onsen 〇Gourmet Spots in Kobe １８．Specialties of Kobe・Kobe Beef １９．Specialties of Kobe・Sweets ２０．Specialties of Kobe・Bread ２１．A specialty of Kobe: Roushouki pork buns ■Sightseeing in Kobe by bus is also recommended ■Kobe Sightseeing 1 Day Model Course The shrine is said to have been founded in 201. Within the shrine grounds, there are various regent and subordinate shrines with various benefits, as well as power spots. The “mizu-mikuji” love fortune-telling, in which characters emerge when the fortune paper is dipped in water, is popular! The artistic paper-cutting goshuin also attracts attention.   ▼Check out this article▼ 8 Must-Visit Shrines in Kobe: Perfect to Pair with Nearby Attractions Kitano Ijinkan Gai is one of Kobe’s most popular tourist spots! The town flourished as a settlement for the increasing number of foreigners who came to Japan after the opening of the Port of Kobe in 1868, and is dotted with more than 30 classical Western-style buildings, about half of which are open to the public.   ▶For more information     Kitano Tenma Shrine is located uptown in the Kitano Ijinkan Gai. It is a spot with a spectacular view of the Port of Kobe, the cityscape of Kobe, and the modern Western-style buildings of the Kitano Ijinkan-gai, and is also famous for its plum blossoms, which bloom from February to March.   ▼Check out this article▼ February and March trip is plum blossom viewing! Best spots in Kyoto, Osaka and Kobe A 10-minute ropeway ride from the foot of the mountain takes you to one of the largest herb gardens in Japan, with 75,000 flowers and herbs of about 200 species. Inside the park, there are restaurants and cafes overlooking the city of Kobe, providing a resort-like atmosphere on the mountain.   ▶For more information This is the only Japanese garden in a city park in Kobe City, and visitors can admire the garden while circling around the pond. In the modern port city of Kobe, this is a rare spot where visitors can experience a Japanese atmosphere! The scenery of azaleas in spring and autumn leaves in fall is especially worth seeing.   ▼Check out this article▼ Best 15 Places to See Autumn Leaves in Japan!   Nankinmachi, a Chinatown in Kobe’s Motomachi district, is one of the three major Chinatowns in Japan along with Yokohama and Nagasaki. Eating and walking is popular! There are also many events such as “Chinese New Year Festival,” “Mid-Autumn Festival,” and “Lantern Fair.” After the opening of the Port of Kobe, the Former Foreign Settlement Of Kobe was built following modern European urban planning. Today, boutiques and restaurants are housed in modern buildings, and the area is recognized as a fashionable area with an exotic atmosphere.   ▶For more information A waterfront park facing the Port of Kobe. Dotted around the park are photogenic landmarks of Kobe, the city of the sea. One must not forget to take a photo in front of the monument “BE KOBE” when sightseeing! Why not take a walk around the area while feeling the sea breeze? The Starbucks right by the ocean is also recommended. Starbucks Coffee Kobe Meriken Park: A Store with a Stunning View of the Kobe Sea   ▶For more information     Kobe Port Tower, marked by the red lattice that symbolizes Kobe, reopened on April 26, 2024 (Friday)! In addition to the open-air rooftop deck and the Museum of Reflections of Light, a café and bar with a floor that slowly rotates 360 degrees will appear on the third floor of the observation deck. Visitors can enjoy a light meal while viewing the city of Kobe. Kobe Port Tower is located in Meriken Park. “Kobe Harborland umie” is a commercial facility facing the Port of Kobe, where visitors can enjoy local gourmet food and shopping. The landmark Giant Ferris Wheel is colorfully illuminated at night with approximately 120,000 LED lights. Animated images of Kobe, such as a weathercock and a yacht, are also projected. The view of Kobe from the sea is also spectacular! “Kobe Bay Cruise,” which has a boarding station at Meriken Park, operates a sightseeing boat that takes 45 minutes to travel around Kobe Port. The dusk, which turns into a madder shade of red, is a romantic sight.   ▶For more information Aquarium and art fuse together! This is a new type of theater-type aquarium that stimulates the senses by adding digital art, lighting, sound effects and scents to the aquarium where sea creatures live. It is recommended to visit in the late afternoon when there are fewer visitors.   ▶For more information A symbiotic park on Port Island where visitors can interact with flowers, animals, and people. There are indoor and outdoor areas where you can meet cute animals, mainly birds, and rare flowers. Recommended for sightseeing with children! It takes about 20 minutes from Kobe Sannomiya Station by Port Liner.   ▶For more information   ▼Check this article for more information▼ 4 Recommended Zoos to Visit in Kobe The museum was designed by world-renowned architect Tadao Ando. Visitors can experience the calculated architectural beauty of a huge labyrinth, such as the “Circular Terrace”, a beautiful spiral of cast concrete, and the glass-walled corridors surrounding the exhibition rooms.   ▼Check out this article▼ Tadao Ando Buildings You Should Visit in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe 10 BEST Museums and Art Galleries in Kobe Nada Gogo is the name of one of Japan’s most famous sake brewing areas, consisting of Nishi-go, Mikage-go, and Uozaki-go, located in Kobe City, and Nishinomiya-go and Imazu-go, located in Nishinomiya City. Visitors can tour the museum, taste and purchase valuable sake, making it a popular destination for visitors to Japan.   ▼Check out this article▼ Gourmet trip to enjoy sake by Hanshin Railway   ▼Check here for access to each sake brewery! Rokko, close to the city center, is a sightseeing and experience area with a “ten million dollar night view,” an observatory where you can take photogenic photos, and adventure athletic facilities. In particular, the “Kobe Rokko Meets Art” held every year from September to November is a must-see. This popular event blends nature and contemporary art in harmony.   ▼Check out this article▼ Rokko Tourist Guide KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2025 beyond Review- Art Festival Held on the Mountain Arima Onsen, one of the three best hot springs in Japan, is a must-visit tourist spot! You can stay at a ryokan of your dreams or enjoy it as a day trip from Kobe Sannomiya. Enjoy the elegant streets of the hot spring resort, the gold and silver spring with their characteristic spring water qualities, and the gourmet food in the hot spring resort. It is also possible to take a ropeway from the top of Mt. Express buses are convenient from Osaka.   ▼Check out this article▼ Arima Onsen-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy Hot Springs, Gourmet, and Nature! The 10 best food and sweets in Arima Onsen Town How to Get to Arima Onsen from Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe – A Complete Transportation Guide Kobe beef is one of the most popular gourmet foods in Kobe! Many people want to enjoy its fine grain, sweetness, and aroma. “kisshokichi-honten” specializes in Kobe beef that has passed a strict screening process. Web reservations in English and Chinese are also available. Kobe was one of the first cities in Kansai to adopt Western culture, and has a thriving confectionery culture, including cakes, chocolates, baked goods, and gaufres. Afternoon tea can be enjoyed at the popular PATISSERIE TOOTH TOOTH main store cafe. Sweets in unique packages are recommended as souvenirs. Like sweets, Kobe also has a well-established bread culture. The long-established Isuzu Bakery was established in 1946 and offers 180-190 varieties of bread every day.   ▼Check this article for more information▼ 6 Must-Try Breads in Japan & Kansai “Roushouki” is a long-established Chinese restaurant located in front of the Nanjing Town Square and has been a favorite for over 100 years. The line outside the restaurant is made up of people who want to try the famous “pork buns”. The freshly made pork buns are the perfect accompaniment to your meal. There are also many other gourmet foods loved in Kobe, such as Western cuisine, gyoza, and bokkake yakisoba. For more information, check out the article below! 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals Kobe’s major tourist attractions are compactly located, but the city has many hills due to its location between the mountains and the sea. If you are worried about getting around on foot or are tired on the way, we recommend using the City Loop Bus.   ▶Click here for the official website. We have prepared a recommended model course for those who wish to enjoy the attractions of Kobe in one day. Please see the article below. Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy the fashionable port city, Kobe   Kobe has developed a different culture from Osaka and Kyoto, even in the same Kansai region. Please enjoy the scenery of this high-carat port town.

10 BEST Museums and Art Galleries in Kobe

If you are going to Kobe, the museums and art galleries are the things that you shouldn’t miss. Ranging from museums designed by world-famous architects to unique museums featuring carpentry tools and newly-opened art festivals combined with nature, Kobe has such a wide variety of museums that everyone can enjoy even if you don’t understand Japanese.   *Please go to each homepage for more details of the exhibitions.   Index 1. Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art 2. Kobe City Museum 3. Rokko-Shidare Observatory 4. Kobe Rokko Meets Art 5. Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum 6. Kobe Mysterious Consulate of Trick Art 7. Kobe Maritime Museum 8. Kawasaki Good Times World 9. Kobe Fashion Museum 10. Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art Travel information of Kobe Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art, with its refined space and beautiful natural light, was designed by Tadao Ando, a master of modern architecture. The combination of concrete walls and glass of the building harmonize with the surrounding nature. Visitors can enjoy the artworks in a relaxed atmosphere in the atrium and open-air gallery. The second floor is a space called Ando Gallery, which introduces architectural models and drawings of buildings Ando has worked on.   The museum boasts a collection of over 10,000 items, including works by artists associated with Hyogo. Special exhibitions that introduce the trends of contemporary arts are also buzzing.   ・Foreign language support: English caption available at Ando Gallery. Brochures in Japanese, English, Chinese and Korean. ・Please note that: Photography is prohibited at special exhibitions as well as any work that has a “No camera” icon beside. ▼Check these articles▼ 6 Tadao Ando Buildings You Should Visit in Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe This is the place to go! An overwhelmingly beautiful architectural spot that harmonizes with the nature of Awaji Island! The museum is located at a former foreign settlement in Kobe, renovating what used to be the Kobe branch office of Yokohama Specie Bank, which was built in 1935 and is a famous building left in the Hanshin area. Kobe City Museum has permanent exhibitions of more than 70,000 items related to the history of Kobe and Cultural properties from ancient times to the present day. Moreover, special exhibitions are also held periodically such as the “Ghibli Park and Ghibli Exhibition” and the exhibition of works by Higashiyama Kaii, one of the representative painters of the Showa period. The shop cafe on the 1st floor is where sweets and drinks are provided in a retro-classic atmosphere.   [Foreign language support] Artwork captions: Japanese/English Brochures: Japanese/English/Korean/Simplified Chinese/Traditional Chinese If you want to get close to art in Kobe, Rokko-Shidare Observatory is where you should go! Rokko-Shidare, the landmark of Mt. Rokko, is a dome-shaped observatory designed to resemble a large tree. Terrific photos can be taken with the panoramic view from the maximum altitude of 888m as the background. At night, the area is illuminated, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that differs from the day. If you look around, a “10-million-dollar worthy night view” is right in front of you. Besides, remember to check the exhibition at Shidare Museum!   [Foreign language support] Artwork captions: Japanese Brochures: Japanese/English   [Note] ・No food or drink at the observatory ・Admission fee is required ・Not accepted: Arima-Rokko 1-Day Passport or KOBE Kanko Smart Passport (Basic Plan)   ▼Purchase tickets here▼ Nature Experience Rokko-Shidare Observatory   ▼For more information▼ For our special feature on Mt. Rokko Kobe Rokko Meets Art is a contemporary art festival which is held every year and has gained lots of attention. Event Dates: Saturday, August 29, 2026 – Sunday, November 29, 2026 Rokko Meets Art takes place in facilities on Mt. Rokko such as Chapel of the Wind designed by Tadao Ando which is usually closed to the public and the Trail Area. The works by emerging artists blend into nature and stimulate the visitors’ senses! If you want to see all the works, we recommend a full day of touring since they are scattered in different venues.   [Foreign language support] Artwork captions: Multilanguage by scanning the QR code provided   ▼Check these articles▼ KOBE ROKKO MEETS ART 2025 beyond Review- Art Festival Held on the Mountain Check this article for more travel information on Mt.Rokko Mt.Rokko Sightseeing Summary   Also, Arima Onsen, one of the three most popular hot springs in Japan, is accessible from Mt. Rokko by taking Rokko Arima Ropeway!   ▼Check these articles▼ Arima Onsen-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy Hot Springs, Gourmet, and Nature! The 10 best food and sweets in Arima Onsen Town Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum, as the only museum of carpentry tools in Japan, has a collection of more than 30,000 pieces of tools and materials that have been used in traditional Japanese wooden construction. Here, visitors can learn about the traditional handiwork of craftsmen and the wisdom that has been passed down from generation to generation. In particular, visitors can revel in the fine beauty of traditional carpentry through numerous exhibits including a full-scale model of a tearoom called “Skeleton tea room” and the impressive 7-meter-high model of Toshodaiji-kondo in Nara. In addition to the video and audio guide system, you can get a full experience by smelling and touching the wood. In the building next to it, there are resting rooms with a small stone garden where traditional craftsmanship is shown. As for the popular wood-making workshop event, you’d better check the detailed information such as the operating hours and conditions on the official website.   [Foreign language support] Artwork captions: Partially in English Video/Audio guide is available in Japanese/English/Chinese/Korean Brochures: Japanese/English/Chinese/Korean   [Note] Tours are likely to take more than an hour It is a unique amusement spot in the Ijinkan where you can get inside the paintings and experience works that incorporate optical illusions. Particularly, the Kobe Original Series with a collection of typical works from Kobe is one of the most buzzing areas. From being squashed by a giant slice of Kobe steak to Kobe Tower which is seemingly jumping out of the frame, this is definitely a fun place for everyone regardless of age. Don’t forget to bring your camera along and try to take some astonishing pictures!   [Foreign language support] Japanese [Note] Visitors will be guided in small groups to avoid crowding. Please follow the instructions of the staff. Kobe Maritime Museum features a large roof with a white space structure evoking the image of a sailing ship and is located in the popular sightseeing spot Meriken Park. At the museum, visitors can explore the structure of ships, the charm of cruise ships, and learn about the evolution of ship technology through hands-on experience and projection mapping.   [Foreign language support] Exhibition captions: Japanese/English By using the free APP “T-VOIX”, you can read and listen to museum commentary in English, Korean, and Chinese. Brochures: Japanese/English/Korean/Simplified Chinesea Kawasaki Good Times World, located on the 1st floor of Kobe Maritime Museum, is a corporate museum where visitors can experience the technology of Kawasaki Heavy Industries Group, a world-renowned manufacturer in the fields of ships, trains, aircraft, and motorcycles. Walking into the museum, you will see the valuable Kawasaki motorcycles of different generations. Also, you can enter the driver’s seat of an actual Series 0 Shinkansen train and passenger compartment of a helicopter. Sometimes, there will be events held in the museum.   [Foreign language support] Exhibition captions: Japanese/English Brochures: Japanese/English/Korean/Simplified Chinese As the name shows, Kobe Fashion Museum features fashion as its collection. Collection exhibits of textiles, dresses, fashion photographs, and other valuable items are on display during certain periods. In the library on the third floor, visitors can browse through fashion magazines of the early 20th century and will be able to decipher the trends and culture of each era through fashion that reflects society. In addition to fashion, special exhibitions introducing a variety of art, such as illustrations and Ukiyoe paintings, are also popular. Visitors can also experience a “virtual try-on” of 18 costumes, including 18th-century court costumes and ethnic costumes, which are made into data, as a souvenir of their trip (limited period).   [Foreign language support] Brochures: Japanese only (English is available for exhibits of collections) The primary objectives of Yokoo Tadanori Museum of Contemporary Art are to maintain the collection of works of Yokoo Tadanori, a Japanese artist born in Hyogo. Yokoo’s colorful and free expression has earned him an international reputation. In addition to colorful exhibitions, the museum also has a plenty of Yokoo’s collections including old books, vinyl records, unique figurines and some artist works. One of the most popular photo spots in the museum is the “Cu-mirror-ism to Aotani” installation. The installation consists of mirrors and photographs, and the view of the foot of Mt. Maya outside the window is reflected in the irregularly shaped mirrors in this mysterious spot. Besides, the museum building is a four-story steel-framed concrete building designed by Togo Murano, a Japanese architect who has created many famous buildings, and is also a must-see!   [Foreign language support] Exhibition captions: Japanese/English Brochures: Japanese/English until March, 2025 Kobe has many other sightseeing spots too! Enjoy! OSAKA KYOTO KOBE introduces a model sightseeing course, recommended spots, and delicious food in Kobe. Hope you will find the following articles helpful for your trip.   First Time in Kobe. 21 Best Things to Do! Sightseeing, Spots, Dining, Model Course Kobe-1 Day Trip｜Enjoy the fashionable port city, Kobe 10 Delicious Gourmet Foods in Kobe! Local Specialties and Local Foods Recommended by Locals

What is Nadagogo? History, features, and access to the best SAKE BREWERIES in Japan

Tasting sake is one of the pleasures of traveling in Japan. When it comes to sake, Nadagogo in Hyogo prefecture is highly recommended to visit. This article is going to introduce you to the uniqueness of this traditional sake brewing area located between Kobe and Osaka.   -INDEX- What is Japanese Sake? How to Enjoy Sake? 1）Taste different kinds of sake 2）Visit a sake brewery The Best Sake Brewery Area in Japan: Hyogo・Nadagogo History of Nadagogo The Features of Sake Kept in Nadagogo 「Miyamizu」 「Rice」 「Rokko Oroshi」 Access to Nadagogo Departure from Kobe Sannomiya Departure from Osaka Umeda Sake is an alcohol made from rice (steamed rice), rice malt and water. In Japan, having started with rice’s sake brewing using rice malt around 300-200 BC, sake has developed over a long history to this present day.   Today there are more than 1,400 breweries producing sake. According to the 2019 ranking of sake production by prefecture, Hyogo, Kyoto, Niigata, Saitama, and Akita are the most production areas.   The taste and flavor of sake, which is made from rice and water, is characterized by the nature and climate of the region where it is produced. Also, taste can vary greatly based on the type of rice, rice-polishing ratio and production method. Until now, there are over 10,000 brands of sake, and to taste and compare the differences of the flavors is such an exciting part that you may not want to miss. 1）Taste different kinds of sake   To know sake, the first step is to taste it.   Japanese sake is divided by rice-polishing ratio, whether distilled alcohol is added, and how it is pasteurized. To make it simpler, the following will introduce you to 4 types of sake classified by taste and flavor.   【Features/Type】 Light taste, aromatic / Daiginjo・Ginjo type Rich taste, aromatic / Mature・Aged sake type Rich taste, mild aroma / Junmai type Light taste, mild aroma / Nama-zake・Regular sake・Honjozo Moreover, sake has a wide range of drinking temperatures from 5 to 60℃.   ・7～10℃「Cold sake」 ・40～60℃「Warmed sake」 ・15～20℃「Room temperature」 ・Drink cold sake in a glass with ice「On the rocks」   Best drinking temperature varies from brands and types of sake, so remember to ask the seller what is the best way to drink when buying or ordering in the store. 2) Visit a sake brewery   Sake’s taste shows the local climate and natural environment. To know more about the production process, we recommend you visit a sake brewery.   Some breweries offer brewery tours and tastings, others even have their own sake museum. Chances are that limited-edition brands can be found at their direct sales stores.   Go to a sake brewery, feel the local atmosphere and see for yourself. It is the perfect experience to learn about sake. Nadagogo, Japan’s best sake brewery area, offers not only sake tasting and experience events, but also sake brewery tours and food that goes well with sake. If you are interested in sake, Nadagogo is the place you don’t want to miss.   ＜3 features of Nadagogo＞   ・Top 1 sake production ・Japan’s most famous sake breweries ・26 sake breweries are concentrated in one area   Nadagogo, flourishing in the coastal area between Kobe and Osaka, is the largest sake brewing area in Japan, stretching 12 km from east to west. Nadagogo consists of 5 Gos(regions) including Nishi-Go, Mikage-Go, Uozaki-Go, Nishinomiya-Go and Imazu-Go. There are currently 26 sake breweries, with major brewing companies such as Hakutsuru, Kiku-Masamune and Kenbishi having their own breweries.   In 2020, Nadagogo was registered as Japan Heritage in the title of “Itami Morohaku and Nada no Ki-ippon”. It is a unique culture that has been carefully preserved and passed down. It is said that sake brewing in Nada began around 1330. Starting with sake brewers moved from Itami, a city adjacent to Nishinomiya, many other breweries in the surrounding area began to produce sake. In the 1600s, it is said that 80 percent of sake consumed in Edo (present-day Tokyo), the center of Japan at that time, was from the Nada area.   Then, how did sake breweries in Nadagogo develop in these years?   This is due to the high level of skills of sake brewers, the coastal location that made it easy to transport sake to Edo by ship, and above all, the unique climate of this region. Let’s find out the amazing details of the climate in Nadagogo.   Three major elements bring up delicious sake in Nadagogo, namely water, rice and wind. Located between the mountains to the north and the ocean to the south, Nadagogo has a special spring of mineral-rich hard water called “Miyamizu”. The minerals provide nutrients for koji mold and yeast and promote actions of enzymes, making it an ideal condition for sake brewing. Also, iron content to impair flavor is barely found in Miyamizu. Nowadays, Miyamizu is shared to all breweries in Nada and has been used for production only. Rice is the raw material of sake. Yamada Nishiki has been known as the king of sake-brewing rice, and above all, Yamada Nishiki from Hyogo wins fame in the whole country from its excellent quality. Yamada Nishiki rice is characterized by big rice grains and the large starch called “white core” in the center of the rice grain. Nadagogo has easy access to Yamada Nishiki from Hyogo thanks to its location. Temperature is a vital factor for sake brewing. The best brewing season is winter when the cold wind called “Rokko Oroshi ” blows from Mt. Rokko in the north of the Nada area to the Seto Inland Sea in the south. It is very effective to utilize this natural wind when cooling steamed rice.   In this way, Nada Gogo makes full use of nature to produce the best sake in Japan. Nadagogo is popular among both domestic and international sake fans with its tourist-friendly museums, tasting experience and other exciting events. The following is access information about Nadagogo. Nishi-Go (Sawanotsuru) —10 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Oishi Sta.→10 mins walk→Nishi-Go Mikage-Go (Hakutsuru) —12 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Sumiyoshi Sta.→5 mins walk→Mikage-Go Uozaki-Go (Sakuramasamune) —12 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Uozaki Sta.→5 mins walk→Uozaki-Go Nishinomiya-Go (Nihonsakari) —18 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Nishinomiya Sta.→15 mins walk→Nishinomiya-Go —22 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Imazu Sta.→15 mins walk→Nishinomiya-Go Imazu-Go (Ozeki) —22 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Imazu Sta.→9 mins walk→Imazu-Go —21 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Kusugawa Sta.→8 mins walk→Imazu-Go —33 mins by Hankyu Kobe Line→Imazu Sta.→9 mins walk→Imazu-Go Nishi-Go (Sawanotsuru) —30 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Oishi Sta.→10 mins walk→Nishi-Go Mikage-Go (Hakutsuru) —30 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Sumiyoshi Sta.→5 mins walk→Mikage-Go Uozaki-Go (Sakuramasamune) —22 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Uozaki Sta.→5 mins walk→Uozaki-Go Nishinomiya-Go (Nihonsakari) —15 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Nishinomiya Sta.→15 mins walk→Nishinomiya-Go —18 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Imazu Sta.→15 mins walk→Nishinomiya-Go Imazu-Go (Ozeki) —18 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Imazu Sta.→9 mins walk→Imazu-Go —17 mins by Hanshin Main Line→Kusugawa Sta.→8 mins walk→Imazu-Go —18 mins by Hankyu Kobe Line→Imazu Sta.→9 mins walk→Imazu-Go   Address　http://www.nadagogo.ne.jp.e.agg.hp.transer.com/

Enjoy Ume blossoms bloom in Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe

The plum blossom is called “ume” and is one of Japan’s representative flowers. Plum blossoms bloom in February and March, when the weather remains cold, to herald the arrival of spring. The dainty appearance of ume flowers blooming while enduring the cold has captured the sensibility of the Japanese people since ancient times. Enjoy the seasonal plum blossoms at places that embody the essence of Japan, such as shrines, temples, and castles.   -INDEX- 【OSAKA】 ・Osaka Castle Park Plum Grove , The castle tower and plum blossoms ・Osaka Temmangu Shrine, God of Learning and Entertainment ・Expo ’70 Commemorative Park, famous for the Tower of the Sun 【KYOTO】 ・Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, God of Learning ・Umenomiya-taisha Shrine, the oldest plum blossom viewing spot in Kyoto ・Jonan-gu Shrine, weeping plum trees in full bloom 【KOBE】 ・Kitano Tenma Shrine, a shrine in the sky ・Okamoto Plum Blossom Park, overlooking the city of Kobe ・Kobe Suma Rikyu Park, many varieties of plum trees Osaka Castle Park Plum Grove is one of the most famous plum blossom viewing spots in Kansai. About 1,270 plum trees are planted in an area of about 1.7 hectares on the east side of the inner moat of Osaka Castle.   Please take your time to enjoy the castle, the plum blossoms, and the scenic beauty.   ▼For those who want to learn more about the castle▼ 5 castles in Osaka, Kyoto and Hyogo. From World Heritage Sites to the Newest Castles, Places to Visit for Sightseeing Osaka Temmangu Shrine is dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, and is popularly known as “Tenjin-san of Temma”.   When the plum blossoms are at their best, the Plum Blossom Festival is held. Around the Hoshiai Pond on the north side of the temple grounds, there are about 100 white and red plum trees, which are very vivid. There are two plum gardens in the vast expanse of Expo ’70 Commemorative Park. There are about 600 plum trees of 120 varieties in the Natural and Cultural Garden and about 80 plum trees of 40 varieties in the Japanese Garden.   Enjoy the fragrance that spreads all over the area as you gaze at the Tower of the Sun floating in a sea of plum blossoms.   ▼For more information about Expo ’70 Commemorative Park▼ Expo ’70 Commemorative Park is a great place to visit in Osaka! Highlights Explained! All year round, students come to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, known as the god of learning, to pray for the success of their exams.   When the plum blossoms are in full bloom, the plum garden associated with Michizane Sugawara is open. You can walk around among the plum trees and enjoy the fragrance of the plum blossoms.   ※The plum garden opens to the public depending on the blooming status, but it is typically in early February. The symbol of Umenomiya-taisha Shrine, 450 ume trees of about 35 varieties are planted throughout the shrine grounds. It is recommended to visit the shrine when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the late blooming plum trees are in full bloom.   Umenomiya-taisha Shrine is also famous for the cats that live in its precincts. This shrine is a must-see for cat lovers.   ▼Here’s a recommended itinerary for visiting Arashiyama along with Matsuo Taisha Shrine▼ Kyoto Arashiyama Sightseeing Half-day Model Course! Capture the bamboo forest, temples, nature, and major spots During the plum blossom season, Jonan-gu Shrine is visited by many tourists because of the beautiful contrast between the plum trees that cover the overhead and the red camellia flowers that fall in dots. Founded in the south of Kyoto at the time of the Heian-kyo Capital transfer, it is worshiped as a major shrine that removes worries about moving, construction, and house construction. Kitano Tenma Shrine is located up the hill from the beautiful Kitano Ijinkan Street lined with foreign residences.   The plum blossom garden on the hill behind the shrine is known as one of the best plum blossom spots in Kobe, and is decorated with many plum blossoms, especially white plum blossoms. From the observatory in the plum grove, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city of Kobe and the Port of Kobe. There are about 130 plum trees of 21 species planted on a hill in Okamoto, with a great view. You can enjoy the plum blossoms while overlooking the city.   This plum grove park is famous for its beautiful plum blossoms, so much so that it was once called “Okamoto for plum blossoms and Yoshino for cherry blossoms”. From the early-blooming varieties of Yaekankou and Gyokubotan to the late-blooming varieties of Bungo, 160 plum trees of about 25 varieties bloom one after another in a relay-like pattern for about a month.   At the same time, daffodils and rape blossoms blooming at our feet add color to the scene.   ▼For detailed information on Suma▼ Kobe・Sumaura Sanjo Amusement Park｜Retro Rides, Stunning Seto Inland Sea Views, and Spectacular Cherry Blossoms

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