神戸市立博物館
Kobe City Museum
A museum housed in a neoclassical former bank—Kobe City Museum tells the story of international exchange, from ancient maps to Meiji modernity.
Attractions
Museum, Cultural Institution, History, Art
MK Guide Recommends
Located just a few blocks inland from Kobe’s historic port, Kobe City Museum explores the city's role as a gateway of culture, commerce, and global contact. Housed in a grand 1930s neoclassical building (formerly the Yokohama Specie Bank), the museum houses one of Japan’s finest collections of nanban art—depicting early interactions between Japanese, Portuguese, and Spanish traders—as well as archaeological finds, early global maps, and rotating art exhibitions. The tone is quiet and academic but beautifully curated, making it a rewarding stop for those seeking context behind Kobe’s modern cosmopolitanism.
Facilities & Services
Permanent exhibitions on Kobe’s history and global exchange
Notable nanban art and early world maps
Rotating special exhibitions
Museum shop and accessible facilities
5-minute walk from Motomachi Station
HOP STAND Kobe Mosaic Store
A bright, family-friendly fusion of Rokko craft beer and hops-seasoned yakitori with harbor views and an approachable, market‑style atmosphere.
The Oyster Bar Kobe
A stylish oyster bar overlooking Kobe Harbor, offering a creative lineup of raw, grilled, and fried oysters paired with wines and casual Italian cuisine.
New Munchen Hafenburg
A lively German-style beer hall perched over Kobe Harbor, known for fresh local beer, crunchy Tamba chicken karaage, and sweeping ocean-to-nightcity views.
resto Adol
A warm, meat-centered casual eatery in Hyogo Ward, praised for generous lunch specials and a relaxed evening izakaya vibe under local ownership.
Sakazaiya Shibuki
A relaxed yet refined kappo-izakaya near Kobe Station, specializing in seafood, tempura, and generous set lunches in counter and kotatsu settings.