Kobe Chinatown

A Taste of Chinese Culture at the Heart of Kobe

Alexandra Dorovici Jun 18, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>Those two statues stand on the main street.</p>

<p>Details of the gate leading to Chinatown. </p>

<p>Everything is inspired from Chinese culture. </p>

<p>Red and yellow details are all over the area's architecture. </p>

<p>The street is quite busy and welcomes the Chinese community and visitors alike. </p>

<p>In smaller streets, you may also find restaurants and shops. </p>

<p>Everything is colorful in this souvenir shop. </p>

<p>More souvenirs to bring back from Chinatown. </p>

<p>Are you hungry? There are plenty of restaurants selling food on the street in this area. </p>

<p>Details of the impressive main gate. </p>

Kobe Chinatown is an area dedicated to Chinese culture in the center of Kobe. It is a hub of Chinese shops, restaurants and temples and more than being a place of gathering for the Chinese community, it is also a famous sightseeing spot for its vibrant colors and animated streets.

The area started attracting Chinese immigrants in the 19th century, when Kobe port opened to foreigners. Since then, it kept developing and is today an interesting place to visit for its numerous shops and restaurants. Close to what is considered to be downtown Kobe and minutes away from Sannomiya station, Chinatown Kobe contrasts with its neighboring monochrome and modern Japanese buildings, banks and offices. It is also very close to the port and the main department stores, so when you are visiting Kobe, you can easily find time to visit it before going shopping or relaxing on the bay area.