Kobe Chinatown, known as Nankinmachi, is a lively and vibrant area in the city. This colorful spot is a favorite for both locals and tourists.
Visitors can enjoy delicious Chinese street food, capture amazing photos, and experience the charm of Chinese culture in Japan. It’s an ideal destination for families, food lovers, and those who enjoy exploring unique places.
Top Things to Do in Kobe Chinatown
1. Try Delicious Street Food
Nankinmachi is famous for its tasty food. Here are some must-try snacks:
- Pork Buns (Butaman): Steamed buns stuffed with juicy pork.
- Shumai Dumplings: Steamed and super flavorful.
Roushouki, founded in 1915, is the birthplace of the pork bun and sells around 13,000 buns daily. It’s worth the wait in line at Kobe Chinatown Nankinmachi!
2. Take Photos at Famous Spots
Nankinmachi Square: The center of Chinatown with a pretty Chinese pavilion.
- Dragon Gates: Beautiful gates that welcome you into the area.
3. Visit Fun Shops
Check out the stores selling Chinese tea, snacks, and traditional crafts. You might find some cool souvenirs in Kobe Chinatown Nankinmachi!
4. Enjoy Special Festivals
If you visit during the Chinese New Year or other holidays, you’ll see fun shows like lion dances and music performances. The decorations are super pretty too in Kobe Chinatown Nankinmachi.
Dining Tips
- Eat Fresh: Most food is made fresh and tastes best when eaten right away.
- Bring Cash: Many stalls don’t take credit cards.
- Popular Spots: Try Roshoki for pork buns or Kouzanrou for sit-down Chinese meals in Kobe Chinatown Nankinmachi.
Recommended Restaurants in Kobe Chinatown
Minsei Cantonese Restaurant (広東料理 民生)
Minsei, the oldest Cantonese restaurant in Nankinmachi since 1946, is famous for its “Squid Tempura.” This dish has a crispy outside and soft, tender squid inside—perfect for trying something special.
Ryukaso (劉家荘)
Ryukaso serves delicious Chinese food and is best known for its “Roast Chicken.” The chicken is seasoned with special spices, fried until golden, and comes in different sizes to share with family or friends.
Gunai Tea Restaurant (群愛茶餐廳)
Gunai Tea Restaurant is a great place for handmade dim sum and Hong Kong-style dishes. Their “Wonton Noodles” have a light, tasty broth, and their “Seafood Congee” is perfect for a cozy meal or brunch.
FAQ
Yes! It’s a fun and lively spot with delicious food and great photo opportunities.
Kobe Chinatown is one of Japan’s three major Chinatowns, along with Yokohama and Nagasaki. It’s known for its colorful streets filled with Chinese-style buildings, authentic Chinese food, international cuisine, tea, sweets, and unique shops selling everything from snacks to souvenirs.
Located near Motomachi Station, Kobe’s Chinatown grew because the city was a port welcoming international trade. Chinese merchants played a big role in its development.
Don’t miss the pork buns, dumplings, and Chimaki!
| Name | Kobe Nankinmachi (Chinatown) |
|---|---|
| Address | Nankinmachi, Chuo Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan |
| Access |
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| Hours | Varies by shop and restaurant |
| Social Media |
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| URL | Nankinmachi Official Website |
| Map | Google Maps |
| Name | Kobe Tourist Information Center |
| Address | 8 Kumoicho, Chuo Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan |
| Access | Located near JR Sannomiya Station East Exit and below Port Liner Sannomiya Station |
| Hours | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Languages Supported | Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean |
| Map | Google Maps |
