MEETING PLANNER’S GUIDE

CONTENTS

WELCOME TO KOBE 03

WHY KOBE 04

ABOUT US 14

PAST EVENTS 16

SUPPORT SERVICES 18

VENUES 20

ACCOMMODATION 28

EXPERIENCES 30

GOOD TO KNOW 40

ACCESS 41

01 RUSSIA

CHI N A A R EA MAP

K OBE B I OMED I CAL C I T Y C EN T R E I N NOVATI O N C LU STER

N O R T H M A N U FACTU R I N G ARE A C U LT U R A L ARE A KO R E A JAPAN

C OASTAL ARE A A R I MA HOT S P R I N GS S O U T H KO R E A TOK YO

K OBE

A r i m a Mt. R o k k o KYOTOOTO H YOGO

E A KOBE AR

Mt. Maya CULTURAL R I O S AK A G NARNARAA A

S a ke B rew i n g Area Sh i n-Kob e ABOUT KOBE M ot omachi S annom i ya Located in the centre of Japan, Kobe is easily accessible from major cities in M O U NTAIN ARE A Japan and overseas. It is a compact city, where urban development is in harmony Kobe Convention Cent e r with nature, surrounded by beautiful coastline and with magnificent moun- Port Island tains just 5km from the city centre. Suma Beach Kobe Airpor t Total 1,522,273people population （ As of January 2020）

International 137countries 49,369people population （ As of January 2020） 05km 10km Area 557. 01km2 （ As of March 2020） 02 RUSSIA

CHI N A A R EA MAP

K OBE B I OMED I CAL C I T Y C EN T R E I N NOVATI O N C LU STER

N O R T H M A N U FACTU R I N G ARE A C U LT U R A L ARE A KO R E A JAPAN

C OASTAL ARE A A R I MA HOT S P R I N GS S O U T H Welcome to KOBE KO R E A TOK YO

K OBE Since the 9th century, Kobe has played a critical role in shipping and trade, fostering an outward-looking spirit that encouraged it to embrace and adopt different cultures. It prospered through the shipbuilding and steel industries, and in recent years it has also focused on businesses with an eye on global expansion, such as research and development of A r i m a Mt. R o k k o advanced technologies in fields including medical care, IT, and new KYOTOOTO energy. Kobe remains one of the leading business bases in Japan. H YOGO E A As the first city in Japan to promote meetings and events, it opened KOBE AR Japan’s first convention precinct - the Kobe Convention Center - in 1981 Mt. Maya CULTURAL R I as part of the Portopia 81 exposition. In 2000, the Kobe Convention O S AK A G ’ NARNARAA A Bureau launched Japan’s first meetings and events support package, “Meet in Kobe”, to meet the needs of organisers and established Kobe as

S a ke B rew i n g Area Sh i n-Kob e a city that understands and helps facilitate meetings and events. ABOUT KOBE M ot omachi S annom i ya In this guide, we will explore Kobe’s strengths from four perspectives: Located in the centre of Japan, Kobe is easily accessible from major cities in M O U NTAIN ARE A PORT, LIVEABLE, MEDICAL, and DYNAMIC. As well as information about Japan and overseas. It is a compact city, how we can support your event, we will share insights into the city, from its where urban development is in harmony Kobe Convention Cent e r history to its cutting-edge technology, and its culture, food and lifestyle. with nature, surrounded by beautiful coastline and with magnificent moun- Port Island tains just 5km from the city centre. Suma Beach Kobe Airpor t Total 1,522,273people population （ As of January 2020）

International 137countries 49,369people population （ As of January 2020） 05km 10km Area 557. 01km2 （ As of March 2020） 03 WHY KOBE

04 WHY KOBE Kobe’s strengths from four perspectives

PORT CITY A global city that has grown as an international trading port

LIVEABLE CITY A creative and collaborative city that promotes wellbeing

MEDICAL CITY Asia’s leading medical research base, Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster

DYNAMIC CITY An experimental city that continues to shape the future with innovative ideas

05 A global city that has grown as an international trading port

PORT CITY 06 POR T C I T Y WHY Increasing international KOBE In 1868, Kobe became a major international trading port. organisation presence Today, it is a cosmopolitan city, home to 1.5 million people from more than 130 countries, as well as global organisations Starting with the inauguration of the and companies. It is fast becoming the city of choice for those WHO Centre for Health Development attracted by its history, innovation and international mindset. （WHO Kobe Centre - WKC）* 1 in 1996, and the UNDRR*2 chose Kobe as the location for its Japan office in 2007. In 2020, UNOPS*3 launched its first Global Innovation Centre（GIC Japan） in Asia in the city. WHY Historical industrial city KOBE *1 Established as an integral part of the WHO Headquarters, conducting research to achieve With the opening of Kobe’s port, many corporations expanded sustainable Universal Health Coverage（UHC）. *2 United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction. Works on building an international internationally - including Suzuki Shoten, which became disaster prevention cooperation system and supporting disaster prevention policies in Japan’s most successful trading company at that time - driving each country. the city’s economy and turning Kobe into an industrial power- *3 United Nations Office for Project Services. Emergency support for conflict and disaster areas, promotion of innovation by investing in the private sector, etc. house. Although heavy industry and manufacturing is still a key part of its economy, in the 1990s city officials started investing in new fields such as medical care and IT, turning Kobe into a leading centre for technological advances and WHY innovation. KOBE Quality of life in Japan*4 1st Major industries City of choice Quality of life in Asia*4 nd Heavy 2 Medical IT manufacturing *4 2019 World Living Environment Survey, Japan’s international Mercer nd conference destination*5 *5 Statistics on International 2 Conferences, Japan National Tourism JNTO New energy Aerospace Fashion Organization（ ） Location of choice for *6 “INVEST IN KOBE”, Kobe Enterprise Promotion international company th *6 Bureau 4 headquarters

07 A symbiotic city that promotes welfare and disaster prevention

LIVEABLECITY

08 LIVEABLE C I T Y WHY A city where you can connect with the KOBE Kobe was one of the first cities in Japan to focus on ensuring community and live with peace of mind its citizens’ wellbeing, passing its Welfare Act in 1977. After the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake that struck the city in 1995, International disaster prevention Kobe took the opportunity to reconstruct a resilient city that guidelines originating from Kobe would improve its citizens quality of life. Recognising the ’ At the 2005 UN World Conference on Disaster importance of residents helping each other, Kobe promoted Risk Reduction, held in Kobe, reconstruction community-level disaster prevention projects, which have been efforts after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earth- positively evaluated by the United Nations. Kobe is certified as quake were recognised and an international Japan’s first advanced disaster prevention “role model city”. guideline, the Hyogo Framework for Action, was established. With world-class expertise, Kobe’s knowledge has informed response guidelines and disaster prevention worldwide. WHY Efforts to improve civil welfare KOBE One initiative to come out of the Welfare Act was the Disaster information sharing service “SIP-KOBE” creation of Kobe’s “Village of Happiness”, which sup- ports independent living for vulnerable citizens, who are One crucial lesson the city learned from empowered to assist each other. Following the 2016 G7 the earthquake was the importance of Health Ministers’ Meeting in Kobe, the city put renewed citizens helping each other. Combining focus on citizen welfare, launching the “Dementia Kobe the knowledge of the disaster prevention Model” for dementia prevention and patient support. community and new technology, Kobe launched the “SIP-KOBE Demonstration Training” service via social media, which allows citizens to share information in the event of a disaster.

Regional cooperation system for infectious disease control Following the G7 Health Ministers’ Meeting, Kobe City strengthened its infectious disease man- agement system. Using digital technology, the “Kobe model” promotes early detection, region- al cooperation, and leads to infection control through information-sharing on the portal site.

09 Asia’s leading medical research base, Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster

MEDICALCITY 10 MEDICAL C I T Y WHY Advanced medical care x KOBE The devastation of the 1995 earthquake was the catalyst to reinvent technology from Kobe Kobe as a centre for cutting-edge life science research. Transforming an island in the city harbour, it created one of the largest biomedical Japan’s first-ever produced clusters in Asia. With universities, research institutes, hospitals, surgical robot and biomedical companies all concentrated within 2 km, it is an Medicaroid Corporation* has developed environment that encourages collaborative research and develop- the hinotori™ Surgical Robot System, in ment, and practical application. Through this collaboration, Kobe the industry-academia collaboration en- continues to generate innovative research and technologies that vironment of Kobe. The system was put will change the world. into practical use in just 5 years, and the first surgery was successfully performed

at Kobe University in December 2020. * A venture company funded by Kawasaki WHY A hotbed for the future of medicine Heavy Industries and Sysmex based in Kobe. KOBE Employing 11,700 people in around 370 organisations, includ- ing the large research institute RIKEN and highly-specialised The world’s most powerful hospitals, it continues to grow with a focus on cultivating supercomputer Fugaku future leaders. Leading the supercomputer performance ranking TOP500*, Fugaku will be avail- able for shared use from 2021. Its unri- The rise in companies and organisations expanding into the Kobe Biomedical Innovation Cluster valled calculation speed has been utilised People Organisations to help research and combat COVID-19. 12,000 369 400 *As of November 2020 11,000 Organisations 336 Photo Credit : Courtesy of RIKEN 350 10,000 Number of employees 11,700

9,000 271 10,000 300 8,000 World’s first transplantation 250 7,000 203 7,500 of iPS photoreceptor cells 6,000 200 In 2020, Kobe City Eye Hospital per- 5,000 125 150 formed the first transplant of iPS- 4,000 4,300 developed retinal cells to treat a genetic 3,000 73 100 eye disease. This has opened up new 2,000 18 2,200 50 possibilities for the use of iPS cells - 1,000 1,600 200 which can be programmed to create 0 0 2001 2004 2007 2010 2013 2016 2019 any new cell - in regenerative medicine.

11 An experimental city that continues to shape the future with innovative ideas

DYNAMIC CITY

12 DYNAMIC C I T Y WHY KOBE Inspired by the nature that surrounds it, Kobe is committed to creating a sustainable society and is focused on enabling an envi- ronment that encourages and supports startups that share this aim. It is working towards achieving the SDGs, including promoting innovations in new energy to create a carbon-free city. A new business area surrounded by nature

WHY Development of next-generation The “Rokko Sanjo Smart City Concept” was launched in 2020, to create a KOBE new working environment in an area rich in natural beauty. Kobe has created energy a business base equipped with cutting-edge technology in the city’s mountain region, and opened a co-creation lab that connects companies and creators. In 2018, Kobe conducted a test to generate power using only hydrogen. For In addition to creating a place where people can work in a variety of new the first time in the world, it succeeded in supplying multiple public facilities, ways, there has been a focus on projects that address social issues such as including the Kobe International Exhibition Hall. Trials in long-distance population decline and ageing. transport and storage of hydrogen are also underway. As the only advanced- energy city in Japan to be a member of the WECP, Kobe is contributing to global energy advancement. WHY * World Energy Cities Partnership: Shares the services and knowledge of the energy industry Various startup support and carries out exchange cooperation projects between member cities. KOBE programmes

Kobe City has implemented its own startup support measures that have attracted do- mestic and international attention, such as an entrepreneur development programme in collaboration with 500 Startups*1 based in Silicon Valley. In recognition of Kobe’s achievements, in 2020 UNOPS opened GIC Japan, an “incubation” facility to work to- wards the SDGs*2.

*1 One of the world’s leading active startup investment funds. *2 An innovation base that the United Nations is setting up in 15 locations around the world. Established in Kobe in November 2020 as the third base in the world and the first base in Asia. *Fuel cell vehicle owned by Kobe City “MIRAI”

13 SUPPORT for Event Organisers

14 ABOUT US｜ Kobe Convention Bureau 4 Strengths With 40 years’ worth of experience and knowledge, the con- 01 02 vention bureau supports meetings and events in Kobe by Able to handle Accommodation large-scale conventions providing operational assistance and preparing proposals for Maximum number of participants Number of guest rooms attracting conferences. The convention bureau’s unique “Meet in Kobe” package offers support, including access to a network More than 22,000 More than 17,000 of around 90 partner companies. The convention bureau sup- 03 ports the SDGs, and by creating an environment for interna- Compatible with various scales of meetings and events tional collaboration it supports targets in health and wellbeing. Total exhibition space Number of convention facilities

1981 Held Japan’s first regional exposition “Portopia ’81” 13,600 m2 More than 60 of various sizes Opened Japan’s first convention precinct, the Kobe Convention Center 04 1982 Declared Japan’s first “Convention City Declaration” Achievements Number of international conferences held annually 2000 Announced Japan’s first meetings and events support package “Meet in Kobe” 2013 Japan Tourism Agency selected Kobe as “Global MICE City” More than 400 2nd in Japan 2017～2019 Kobe is ranked 2nd* in Japan for international conferences *Statistics on International Conferences, Japan National Tourism Organization（JNTO） Rise in the number of international conferences held in Kobe

Ranked Events 1 Ranked Ranked Ranked 500 2nd 2nd 2nd 2 450 438 419 400 3 Ranked 405 4th 350 4 300 5 260 250 6 200 7 Ranked 8th 150 8 113 100 9 50

10 0 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019

15 PAST EVENTS We have facilitated a wide range of successful events from large-scale international conferences to hybrid conventions.

Internet industry experts ISPO returns to Kobe gathered in Kobe

ICANN64 ISPO 2019（ The 17th International Society （ The 64th ICANN public meeting） for Prosthetics and Orthotics World Congress）

March 9-14, 2019 I T 1,759 pax October 5-8, 2019 Medical 4,596pax Kobe Convention Center Kobe Convention Center

One of the world’s largest Internet-related confer- Thirty years after Kobe was selected as Japan’s first ences, ICANN, was held in Japan for the first time in ISPO venue the world’s top prosthetics and orthotics 19 years, bringing 1,800 people together from 100 personnel returned. Many presentations and dis- countries, in Kobe. The city has a special history in cussions were held, including the results of cutting- this field - the influential international conference edge robot research. The national, prefectural, city, “INET ’92” was held in 1992, which triggered the and convention bureaus worked together to create a global spread of the commercial internet. The 64th larger event, including the Hyogo Parasports Festival public meeting was an opportunity for internet indus- and the Nursing / Medical Robot Trade Fair, in which try pioneers to meet again in Kobe. Local volunteers 150 companies working in prosthetics and welfare helped host the event, which incorporated aspects of equipment participated. A joint event with the WHO traditional Japanese culture, including a sake barrel Kobe Centre for Health Development was also held, breaking ceremony, using sake from Kobe. and the convention closed with great success.

Comments from the organiser Comments from the organiser

Participants said, “We would love the event to be held Kobe was the perfect place. We mobilised many in Kobe again”. In addition to the attractive location participants from other countries with generous and cityscape, much appreciation goes to everyone’s support and cooperation from Hyogo Prefecture and cooperation and hospitality in Kobe, including the Kobe City, and the bureau. We received many com- venue, convention bureau, and volunteers. pliments on the hospitality.

Akinori Maemura, ICANN64 local host committee Takaaki Chin, President of Japanese Branch of ISPO （ General Manager, Internet Development Department, （ Head Director of Hyogo Rehabilitation Center） Japan Network Information Center）

16 Successful hybrid conference during the global pandemic

JSIR 2020（ The 49th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Interventional Radiology）

August 25-27, 2020 Medical 1,918 pax （ including online Kobe Portopia Hotel participants） An academic conference on medical technology and interventional radiology（ IVR）was held simulta- neously on-site and online. We carried out a full range of online programmes, such as live broadcasts of presentations and discussions, and on-demand distribution allowed participants to watch recorded Significant 2019 13th International Society of Physical and Participants videos at a convenient time. On-site events were events Rehabilitation Medicine World Congress（ ISPRM 2019） 2,800 held under safe management and social distancing Japan Digestive Disease Week 2019 JDDW 2019 Kobe 22,000 measures. Amid the turmoil of the COVID-19 pande- （ ） mic, nearly 2,000 people participated in a pioneering 2018 OCEANS’18 MTS / IEEE Kobe / Techno-Ocean 2018（OTO’18） 7,000 approach that signalled the resumption of large- The 31st International Electric Vehicle Symposium scale meetings and events in Kobe. & Exhibition（ EVS 31 & EVTeC 2018） 4,600

Comments from the organiser 2017 IAG-IASPEI 39th Joint Scientific Assembly（ IAG-IASPE I 2017） 1,000

We wanted to offer the opportunity for participants 2016 G7 Kobe Health Ministers’ Meeting 20,000 to attend online or in person, and the Kobe Portopia Asian Pacific Digestive Week APDW 2016 3,000 Hotel was able to successfully accommodate the （ ） size requirements. The hybrid model demonstrated 2010 The 14th International Congress of Immunology（ ICI 2010） 6,500 our capability to deliver a successful conference and 2009 2009 IEEE International Conference on Robotics and left a significant impression on our members. Automation（ ICRA 2009） 1,200 Takamichi Murakami, Congress president of JSIR 2020 （ Professor and Chairman, Department of Radiology, 2008 G8 KOBE Environment Ministers Meeting 2008 60,000 Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine） 2005 The 2nd UN World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction 40,000

17 SUPPORT SERVICES｜ “ Meet in Kobe” We offer a full range of support packages unique to Kobe, which combine bidding and event support as part of the “Meet in Kobe” service.

Bidding support Domestic conferences International conferences Subsidies for domestic conferences We will subsidise up to 2 million JPY for large-scale domestic Portopia ’81 Memorial Fund conferences.

Subsidies available up to 5 million JPY, depending on conditions. 〈 Applicable conditions〉 1 Held within Kobe city 2 The organiser is a non-profit organisation Type A 3 National conference with more than 1,000 participants 〈 Applicable conditions〉 （ half of the participants must come from outside of Kobe） 1 Held within Kobe city 4 Held over two days or more 2 The organiser is a non-profit organisation Up to 2 million JPY 3 More than 300 participants, including more than 100 international participants Exhibition 4 More than five participating countries（ including Japan） 5 Held over three days or more Exhibition hosting subsidy Up to million JPY For your first exhibition in Kobe city, we will subsidise up to 5 500,000 JPY.

〈 Applicable conditions〉 Type B 1 First time holding an exhibition in Kobe city 2 Using 1,000 square metres or more at the venue 〈 Applicable conditions〉 1 Held within Kobe city 3 Held over two or more days including the preparation day Up to JPY 2 The organiser is a non-profit organisation 500,000

Up to 2 million JPY International conferences / Domestic conferences

Grant from the Tsutomu Nakauchi Foundation The foundation was established to attract conventions to Kobe and other cities in Hyogo prefecture. It provides subsidies for ● Up to 5% of the total project cost for holding a meeting international and domestic conferences and lends funds for ● In the case of Type B, there must be 20 or more participants from two conference preparation. or more countries including Japan ● For international sessions accompanying domestic conferences, there must be at least 20 people, of which at least 10 must be from outside Please contact the Kobe Convention Bureau for inquiries. Japan Can be applied in combination with the Portopia ’81 Memorial Fund and the domestic conference subsidy.

18 Event support Frequently asked questions

Q. What support can I receiveFAQ when considering Support menu an international conference in Kobe? 1 Subsidy for signboard 6 Sightseeing bus charter fee assistance The Kobe Convention Bureau provides a variety of support production costs （up to 50,000 JPY） A. related to attracting international conferences, including: （up to 30,000 JPY） * Limited to bus companies that have sales offices in Kobe. ● Advice for holding conferences 2 Support for reception drinks Provision of Kobe promotional ● Venue suggestions （up to 50,000 JPY） 7 * Sake barrel purchase assistance videos and images ● Assistance in creating proposals or Kobe wine Public relations support for ● Site inspections （up to 50 bottles） holding public lectures, etc. In addition, regardless of whether it is an international or 3 Congress bags 8 Tourist information / introduction to domestic conference, corporate meeting or incentive tour, （up to 1,000） Japanese cultural experience volunteers we offer a wide range of venue proposals and assist in site * Using eco-friendly materials （flower arrangement, calligraphy, etc.） inspections. If you are considering holding a meeting or 4 Participant souvenirs * Limited to use in the venue event in Kobe, please contact the Kobe Convention Bureau. （up to 200） 9 Introduction of Kobe’s unique * Pin badges, etc. experience programmes 5 Sanitisation products * Approximately 20 original programmes Q. Can you recommend volunteers? are available （up to 100） * Alcohol gel, etc. 10 City information pamphlets for A. We can introduce you to volunteers who provide services sightseeing, eating and drinking, such as interpreting and tourist information. Please bear shopping, etc. volunteers’ travel and meal expenses. Please note that we cannot provide volunteers to handle financial transactions *1 to 6 are available only to events supported by the Portopia ’81 Memorial Fund or guide the flow of traffic in venues. （ up to three can be selected ）. Please contact the Kobe Convention Bureau.

Q. Can you recommend a catering service or equipment rental company? “Meet in Kobe” - our partner network A. We can introduce you to some of the “Meet in Kobe” partner We will connect you with the most suitable company from our partners in companies that support meetings and events in Kobe. various industries, according to your needs.

● Convention facilities ● Hotels / ryokans Q. Do you have support for holding hybrid conferences? ● Venue equipment rental / setup（displays, equipment, etc.） ● PCO ● Travel agency ● Pick-up service / sightseeing bus ● Transportation ● Catering ● Interpreters A. We can introduce you to online distribution specialists ● Printing / web design ● Branded souvenirs and create online distribution packages for the Kobe ● Sale of goods in the venue ● Restaurants Please see Convention Center. For more information, please contact the website Leisure boats / dinner cruises Tourism services ● ● for details the Kobe Convention Bureau. ● Sauna / spa facilities ● Various meetings

19 VENUES We are able to offer meeting and event facilities such as the Kobe Convention Center, including unique venues and hotels.

Kobe Convention Center Kobe Portopia Hotel

Opened in 1981 as Japan’s first convention precinct, this is the In conjunction with the Kobe setting for numerous international conferences and exhibitions, International Conference Center/ Exhibition Hall, the hotel is able to and is conveniently located within a 3-minute walk from the provide accommodation and a variety station. It has a convention hall that can accommodate up to of meeting and banquet spaces with 4,000 people, and conference rooms and exhibition halls of an Executive Floor ideal for business various sizes to meet all needs. A covered corridor connects the travelers. conference centre, exhibition hall, and hotel, making it suitable for all weather conditions.

10 min from city centre / 8 min from Kobe Airport

Kobe International Conference Center

▲To Sannomiya The main hall, which can hold （ city centre up to 692 people, can accom- modate ceremonies and con- ） Port Liner certs etc.

Shimin Hiroba sta.

Kobe International Exhibition Hall To Kobe Airport Kobe’s largest exhibition hall with an exhibition space of ▲ 13,600m2.

20 Facilities can be combined to offer flexibility according to the scale and budget of all meetings and events. Parking Shuttle bus Restaurant WiFi Accessible Dietary requirements catered for

Kobe International Kobe International Kobe Portopia Hotel Conference Center Exhibition Hall + 81-78-302-5200 + 81-78-302-1020 + 81-78-302-1123 Port Island Port Island Port Island kobe-cc.jp/en/facilities/conference-center/ kobe-cc.jp/en/facilities/exhibition-hall/ www.portopia.co.jp/en/

Area Capacity Area Capacity Area Capacity Room 2 Room 2 Room 2 （ m ） Classroom Theatre （ m ） Classroom Theatre （ m ） Classroom Theatre Reception Banquet

Main Hall 575 － 692 1F 3,000 － － Portopia Hall － 610 1,702 － － H a

International l 2F Ohwada l

387 240 360 1 3,000 1,500 3,000 2,003 1,650 2,800 3,000 1,400 Conference Room （ Dividable into two） （ Dividable into two） Multi-purpose Reception Hall 272 184 244 153 60 150 Rainbow 362 270 400 300 200 Room South Convention Hall 302～307 40～66 17 28 3,800 2,000 4,000 Topaz 325 250 400 270 230 （ Dividable into two） B u i 401 / 402 130 /99 78 / 54 124/102 2A 340 180 300 lding Diamond 215 190 300 180 150 （connectable） H a l l

403 100 60 104 2 2B 124 90 100 Emerald 214 180 280 180 140

404～406 62～64 39 52 3A 450 270 400 Sapphire 184 150 220 150 120

407 42 24 34 3B 145 90 120 Ruby 167 120 200 150 110 H a

l Kairaku l

501/ 502 233 150 212 3 Exhibition Hall 3,800 2,000 4,000 1,190 800 1,200 1,200 800 （ Dividable into two）

503 82 42 84 Main Waraku 377 280 400 300 230 （ Dividable into two） B

504 / 505 90 / 95 42 / 51 84 /100 u Ikuta 188 130 200 150 120 i

（connectable） lding

Nunobiki 149 110 150 100 80

Kitano / Kikusui 126 90 140 80 80

21 HOTEL VENUES

Capacity Area Facility Room 2 Remark （ m ） Classroom Theatre Reception Banquet

ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe The Ballroom 1,947 1,100 2,000 2,200 900 Dividable into three + 81-78-291-1121 Shin-Kobe Rosemary 257 160 340 210 150 www.anacrowneplaza-kobe.jp/en/ Chamomile 208 140 260 170 110 Jasmine 212 140 260 170 110

Hotel Okura Kobe Heian 2,100 880 3,000 3,000 1,200 Dividable into three + 81-78-333-0111 Motomachi Matsukaze 331 180 300 200 160 www.kobe.hotelokura.co.jp/en/ Akebono 248 147 220 150 120 Seiun 182 90 150 100 80

Kobe Bay Sheraton Hotel & Towers Rokko 925 500 940 700 420 Dividable into three + 81-78-857-7000 Rokko Island Kitano 187 80 154 100 80 www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ Maya 170 osakb-kobe-bay-sheraton- 70 132 90 70 hotel-and-towers Nunobiki 144 60 126 80 60

22 Parking Shuttle bus Restaurant WiFi Accessible Dietary requirements catered for

Capacity Area Facility Room 2 Remark （ m ） Classroom Theatre Reception Banquet

ORIENTAL HOTEL Royal Ballroom 227 136 273 180 160 Dividable into three + 81-78-326-1501 Dividable into two Sannomiya Oriental room 227 136 273 180 160 www.orientalhotel. jp/en/ Bamboo room 127 84 128 90 88 Terrace room 98 52 100 70 64

Hotel Crown Palais Kobe The Ballroom 656 360 540 700 360 Dividable into three + 81-78-362-1155 Dividable into two Kobe Midtown 373 240 324 350 240 www.crownpalais.jp/kobe/en/ Square 239 132 180 220 120

Gallery 92 36 49 35 40 Dividable into two

Kobe Meriken Park Zuiten 810 700 930 600 400 Dividable into three Oriental Hotel + 81-78-325-8111 Kaio 342 130 180 130 100 Motomachi Tenku 210 www.kobe-orientalhotel.co.jp/english/ 78 108 100 80 Ginga 190 100 140 80 70 Dividable into two

La Suite Kobe Oceans Garden + 81-78-381-7777 Dividable into four Sannomiya Oceans Hall 663 396 640 700 430 oceansgarden. jp/

23 UNIQUE VENUES

A historic mansion set in The Fukuju brewery, whose beautiful Japanese gardens sake was chosen for the A guesthouse where you can enjoy the Nobel Prize banquet Sorakuen Garden, a nationally designated The original wooden brewery has been scenic spot. The building is a beautiful transformed into a unique venue and example of Japanese elegance, with a event space. Enjoy the renowned Fukuju banquet hall, private rooms and the flex- sake, paired with beautifully-presented ibility to have an open party outdoors. Japanese cuisine.

THE SORAKUEN Kobe Shu-shin-kan Breweries + 81-78-341-1191 + 81-78-841-1121 Motomachi ［ Main room］Park Suite Higashi Nada ［ Main room］Shushinkan Hall www.the-sorakuen.jp/party/ ［ Area］210m²（ Extendable to 280m²） www.enjoyfukuju.com/en/visitus/ ［ Area］246m² ［Capacity］Reception / 3 0 0 Banquet/200 ［Capacity］Reception / 1 5 0 Banquet/120

A stunning early Showa A chic and luxurious period villa, tucked away in a guesthouse quiet city neighbourhood A 100-year-old guesthouse, set in large A majestic three-storey wooden Japanese gardens, and designed with a mix of villa, completed in 1934. Its private rooms, Japanese and European Art Deco and restaurant and bar take advantage of the Secession style. Now an important cul- villa’s stunning garden and provide guests tural property, it has several spaces with a quiet escape. including a hall, restaurant and annexe.

KOBE GEIHINKAN Former THE GARDEN PLACE SOSHUEN Guest House + 81-78-851-3227 + 81-6-6371-4800 Higashi Nada ［ Main room］THE ORIENTAL ROOM Suma ［ Main room］THE VIZCAYA GARDEN https://soshuen.jp/en/ ［ Area］128m² www.vizcaya.jp/party/ ［ Area］176m² ［Capacity］Reception / 120 Banquet/100 ［Capacity］Reception / 13 0 Banquet/126

24 Parking Shuttle bus Restaurant WiFi Accessible Dietary requirements catered for

A luxury retreat atop Overlook the Kobe cityscape Mt. Rokko in style The retreat for the Japanese elite in the This hillside location, just off Shin-Kobe 19th century, the former Rokkosan Hotel Station, has a variety of facilities, in- was restored and reopened in 2019. The cluding an all-weather indoor garden and restaurant’s deck boasts spectacular an event space and terrace with a view views, and the main building features a overlooking the city out to the ocean. gallery space and meeting room capable of hosting a variety of events.

ROKKOSAN SILENCE RESORT KITANO CLUB sola + 81-78-891-0650 + 81-78-222-5515 Mt.Rokko ［ Main room］GRILL ［ Area］4 6 7. 3 6 m ² Kitano ［ Main room］Grace villa rokkosansilence-resort.com/en/ ［Capacity］Reception / 15 0 www.sola-resort.com/ party /en/ ［ Area］416m² Banquet /Indoor 98, Outdoor terrace 100 ［Capacity］Reception / 3 0 0 Banquet/140

Enchanting views and deluxe A tranquil 1,800-year-old dining on a nighttime cruise shrine in an urban setting A cruise ship becomes a unique enter- Featuring an elegant space created taining venue. Experience the magnifi- through the harmony of traditional cent scale of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge Japanese beauty and Western mod- beautiful views of Kobe’s cityscape while ernism, it is located in the centre of the enjoying fine dining, including Kobe Beef. city, a 5-minute walk from Sannomiya station.

* The photo is Concerto Concerto / Luminous Kobe-2 Ikuta Shrine Hall + 81-78-945-7601 Concerto + 81-78-391-8765 Kobe ［ Max capacity］Reception / 5 0 0 Banquet/400 Sannomiya ［ Main room］Fuji / Horai www.kobeconcerto.com/ Luminous Kobe-2 ikutajinja-kaikan. jp/ ［ Area］346m² ［ Max capacity］Reception / 8 0 0 Banquet/600 ［Capacity］Reception / 4 0 0 Banquet/250

* Concerto only: WiFi Luminous Kobe-2 only:Parking / Accessible

25 OTHER VENUES

Exhibition spaces Main Main Area Facility room Website Area Facility room Website （capacity） （capacity） Motomachi World Hall 8,000 www.kobe-spokyo.jp/world-kobe/ Kobe Educational Hall 230 www.kobekhall.com

Port Island Port Kobe Chamber of Hyogo Chuo Labor 468 www.kcci-convention.com/ 210 www.hyogo-churou.com/ Commerce and Industry Center Shin- Kobe Xebec Hall 300 www.xebec.co.jp/xebec-hall/ Art Center of Kobe 1,100 www.art-center.jp/kobe

Nichii Gakkan Kobe Large Hall 300 www.nichiigakkan.co.jp/service/kobe-pi/ Kobe Bunka Hall www.kobe-bunka.jp/hall Port Island Center 2,043

Kobe International Kobe Shimbun 2,022 www.kih.co.jp 706 www.kobe-np.co.jp/matsukata House Matsukata Hall Kobe Kobe Sannomiya Convention Kobe Harborland 700 oneknot-scc.jp/ 400 www.kobeharborland.com Center Space Theater

Kobe Industrial Lasse Hall 560 www.lassehall.com 397 www.kobe-ipc.or.jp/ Promotion Center

Sannomiya Kobe Municipal Kobe Port Oasis 400 www.kobeportoasis.jp/ 280 kobe-fujin.jimdo.com/ Woman’s Hall Nagata KIITO Design and 340 kiito.jp Pifule Hall 414 www.kobe-bunka.jp/facilities/pfle/ Creative Center Kobe Island Rokko Sannomiya Training 156 f-road.co.jp/kenshu/ Kobe Fashion Mart 1,584 www.kfm.or.jp/en/ Center Higashi

Exhibition Nada space Higashinada Kumin Kobe Sambo Hall 2 www.kobe-sanbo.net 650 www.kobe-bunka.jp/facilities/higashinada/ 1,308m Center Uhara Hall （ 2F） North / West North Kobe Port Terminal Exhibition Village of Happiness Hall www.shiawasenomura.org/english/village_ space www.kobe-port-th.jp Hall 1,000m2 Kobe KOBE 300 of_appiness_kobe.html Motomachi Hyogo Prefectural Hall 360 www.hyogo-arts.or.jp UNITY 200 www.unity-kobe.jp

Hyogo Prefectural 360 www.hyogo-jinken.or.jp Nojigiku Hall

26 Hotel venues Unique venues Main Main Area Facility room Website Area Facility room Details / Websites （capacity） （capacity）

Port Island Port A house with a private pool. Hotel Pearl City Kobe 260 www.pearlcity.jp/kobe/en/ Sannomiya Bayside Geihinkan The venue has been renovated and is filled 200 Banquet Kobe with natural light. （ www.tgn.co.jp/p-party/hall/bgk/） Ariston Hotel Kobe 250 www.ariston.jp/kobe/en/ A guesthouse featuring a courtyard for Yamate Geihinkan garden parties, just a 1-minute walk 150 Kobe Sannomiya www.tokyuhotelsjapan.com/global/ Kobe from Sannomiya station. 220 （ www.tgn.co.jp/p-party/hall/ygk/）

Sannomiya Tokyu REI Hotel kobesannomiya-r/

KOBE KITANO An old ijinkan that welcomed guests during its Hotel Sunroute days as St George Japan, a prestigious 150 www.sopra-kobe.com/en/ Restaurant IJINKAN Former 100 membership club during the Meiji era.

Sopra Kobe Kitano Kulpe House （ www.kulpehaus.com/party/） Kobe Sannomiya 30 www.unionhotel.jp/forign/english.html Union Hotel Victorian House A Western-style mansion, built in 1900, 80 with Japanese touches, overlooking Kobe. Kitano Reintei （ www.kitanorein.com/party/） Hotel Kitano Plaza 200 www.rokkoso.com/?men=6 Rokko-so Kansai’s largest leisure boat features a spacious Royal Princess 500 interior and can be reserved for private use.

www.solarehotels.com/en/hotel/hyogo/ Cruising Chisun Hotel Kobe 300 Kobe Kobe chisunhotel-kobe/ （ kobebayc.co.jp/ ）

Hotel La Suite Kobe Kobe 70 global.l-s.jp/ Sailing-style boat which can be reserved Harborland Ocean Prince 345 for private use. kobebayc.co.jp/

Island Rokko （ ） www.hotelplazakobe.co.jp/

Hotel Plaza Kobe 300 Banquet languege/en.html Minatogawa Shrine Located within the lush Minatogawa Shrine, 250 a 3-minute walk from JR Kobe station. Nanko Hall Arima Grand Hotel 800 www.arima-gh.jp/english/index.html （ www.minatogawajinja.or.jp/nankou/） Arima Hot Springs Arima Banquet

Nada A sophisticated party venue designed by architect Tadao Ando, Hyoe Koyokaku 320 www.hyoe.co.jp/english/ The Hillside Kobe 88 which can be reserved for private use. （ www.hillsiderokko.com/party/） Gekkoen Korokan / 240 www.gekkoen.co.jp/en/ Yugetsusanso

Hotel Kinzan 180 www.kinzan.co.jp Maiko Seaside Hotel 1,080 www.maikovilla.co.jp/en/ MAIKO VILLA KOBE

27 Website www.luminous-hotel.co.jp/kobe/ www.sopra-kobe-annesso.com/en/ www.rokkoso.com/?men=6 www.isago.co.jp/lg_en/ www.peanutshotel.jp/en/ www.crownpalais.jp/ kobe/en/ www.tokyuhotelsjapan.com/global/ kobemotomachi-r/ global.l-s.jp/ www.anacrowneplaza-kobe.jp/en/ www.japanican.com/ hotel/ japan/kobe/ green-hill-hotel-urban www.kobe-kitanohotel.co.jp/en/ www.kitagamihotel.com/ www.kobe.hotelokura.co.jp/en/ www.kobe-orientalhotel.co.jp/english/ www.kobe-porttower-hotel.com/ www.kobeplaza.com/en/ www.kobeplaza.com/west/en/ 27 70 52 49 18 30 174 475 323 229 593 138 120 192 191 193 102 Number of rooms of Facility Kobe Luminous Hotel Luminous Kobe Hyogoekimae Hotel Sopra Sunroute Annesso Kobe Hotel ISAGO Kobe Hotel KitanoPlaza Rokko-so PEANUTS HOTEL Hotel CrownPalais Kobe Hotel LaSuite Kobe Harborland ANACrowne Plaza Kobe Kobe KitanoHotel Kobe Motomachi Tokyu REI Hotel GreenHill HotelUrban Kitagami Hotel Kobe PortTower Hotel Hotel Okura Kobe Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel Kobe Plaza Hotel Kobe Plaza Hotel West

Sanno- miya Motomachi Shin-Kobe / Kitano Kobe / Hyogo Area 28 Website www.monte-hermana.jp/en/kobe/ www.hotel123.co.jp.e.vg.hp.transer.comkobe/ / sanraku.premierhotel-group.com/kobe/en/ www.unionhotel.jp/ forign/english.html www.tokyuhotelsjapan.com/global/ kobesannomiya-r/ www.sopra-kobe.com/en/ www.theb-hotels.com/en/ theb/ kobe/ www.orientalhotel.jp/en/ sanside.co.jp/ www.h-viamare.co.jp/ www.piena.co.jp/english/ www.pearlcity.jp/kobe/en/ www.luminous-hotel.co.jp/sannomiya/ www.hotelmonterey.co.jp/en/kobe/ www.portopia.co.jp/en/ www.ariston.jp/kobe/en/ fresa-inn.jp/sannomiya/ 77 95 98 90 746 218 271 231 116 257 381 307 121 235 100 180 168 Number of rooms of 3 Kobe - 2 - Facility

HOTEL1 Hotel MonteHermana AmalieKobe Kobe Tor Road Kobe Tor Hotel Sanraku Kobe Sannomiya Kobe REITokyu Hotel the kobe b HotelSanside Hotel Via Mare Kobe Hotel PienaKobe ORIENTAL HOTEL ORIENTAL Kobe Sannomiya Kobe Union Hotel Hotel Sunroute Kobe Sopra Hotel PearlCity Kobe Hotel Luminous Kobe Sannomiya Hotel Monterey Kobe Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kobe-Sannomiya Kobe PortopiaKobe Hotel AristonHotel Kobe

Port Island Sannomiya Area ACCOMMODATIONACCOMMODATION Website www.hyoe.co.jp/english/ en.arima-gyoen.co.jp/ www.arima-gh.jp/english/index.html www.zuien.jp/en www.gekkoen.co.jp/yuugetu/en/ www.gekkoen.co.jp/kourokan/en/ arima-shisui.com/ www.arima-view.com/ www.kinzan.co.jp/ www.kadonobou.com/ choraku.com/ www.arimaroyal-h.com/ 37 14 52 77 40 40 35 39 33 54 246 129 Number of rooms of Facility Arima Gyoen Hyoe Koyokaku ArimaHotel Grand Nakanobo Zuien Gekkoen Yugetsusanso SPA TERRACE ShisuiTERRACE SPA Gekkoen Kourokan Gekkoen Ginsuiso Choraku Arima Kirari Hotel Kinzan Kadonobo Arima RoyalHotel

Arima Hot Springs Area 29 Website www.hotel-de-maya.com/ www.koberokko-geihinkan.jp/english.html ren-onsen.jp/ www.manyo.co.jp/kobe/eng/ minotani.jp/ sub.seishin-oh.co.jp/world/en/ www.hotel-fruitflower.jp/ www.maikovilla.co.jp/en/ www.hotelsetre.com/maiko/ www.kotobukirou.jp/ www.seapalsuma.com/ www.hotelplazakobe.co.jp/ languege / en.html www.suma-kagetsu.com/en/ kobe-citygardens.com www.marriott.com/hotels /travel /osakb- kobe-bay-sheraton-hotel-and-towers 7 24 31 23 56 33 53 56 45 90 248 270 139 129 184 Number of rooms of Facility Hotel de Maya Hotel Kobe GeihinkanRokko Kobe Minato Onsen REN HarborlandKobe Onsen Manyo-Club MinotaniGreen Sports Hotel Kobe SeishinOriental Hotel Kobe Hotel Fruit Flower Seaside Hotel MAIKO VILLA KOBE HotelSetre Kotobukiro Rinsuitei SeapalSuma Hotel PlazaKobe KAGETSU Kobe CityGardens Hotel Sheraton Bay Kobe HotelTowers &

Rokko North / West Mt. Rokko Kobe / Hyogo Suma Maiko Island Area Kobe / Mt. Maya EXPERIENCES

30 EXPERIENCES Immerse yourself in Kobe’s culture

FOOD Unique gastronomy cultivated by the local community

INNOVATION Innovative manufacturing ahead of its time

WELLBEING Tranquility created through harmony between nature and the city

and MORE 10 more experiences to enjoy in Kobe

31 FOOD Unique gastronomy cultivated by the local community

Incorporating a variety of foreign influences over its history as an international port city, Kobe has cul- tivated its own diverse food culture. Surrounded by abundant nature including the Seto inland sea and the rich agricultural landscape around it, the region is renowned for its high-quality products, such as Kobe Beef, and as Japan’s biggest sake producer. There is a thriving local food movement, where ev- erything from production to processing is aided by modern advances and a collaborative environment, as well as a focus on mentoring and supporting the next generation. In Kobe, technology has been utilised to create schemes such as a partnership between major agricultural machinery manufacturers and sake breweries and farmers to safeguard sake production. Kobe holds a farmer’s market in the city each week- end, where producers sell directly to consumers. This creates not only relationships with customers, but also opportunities for producers to learn from each other and educate their successors. By creating a community who care about what they eat and where it comes from, Kobe is nurturing a sus- tainable and world-class food culture.

32 Explore Kobe’s unique culinary cultivated by the local community. Experience its world-famous Kobe Beef and sake, and see Kobe’s influence on whisky-production and agriculture.

Time required Max Capacity A B

C

D

CITY CENTRE CULTURAL AREA KCB

A Taste authentic Kobe Beef B Taste sake like a local The quality of Kobe Beef is protected by Learn about the work of sake brewers at the certified farmers and retailers. Learn about Kiku-Masamune Brewery, home to treasured this world-famous delicacy at the Kobe antique brewing tools. Then experience sake Beef Gallery, before experiencing the au- tasting and a kagami biraki ceremony. thentic dish at the in-house restaurant. Kiku-Masamune Kobe Beef Gallery Food Sake Brewery Museum Food https://en.kobebeef.gallery/ 2.5 hours 10 pax Culture

COASTAL AREA KCB AGRICULTURAL AREA KCB KCB Kobe Convention Bureau C Explore Japanese whisky D Discover sustainable unique package Eigashima is a rare brewery where both development on Awaji Island We have created original packages. sake and whiskey are made by the same At Seedbed, a village that promotes col- Reservations are required. master brewer. Take the chance to savour laboration, learn about and take part in For details, scan the QR code this brewery’s unique products on a guided efforts to create a sustainable society to visit our website. tour. through agricultural practices.

Eigashima Shuzo Food Culture Seedbed Project Nature

2-2.5 hours 20 pax（For 20 or more, 3 hours Negotiable Team building please ask in advance）

33 INNOVATION

Innovative Kobe, a port city that evolved by trading in goods rescue missions. In 1969, Kawasaki Heavy Industries manufacturing and new ideas, developed mainly through its heavy produced Japan’s first industrial robot contributing industries and advanced engineering, which continues to the development of the manufacturing industry, and ahead of the times to this day. The Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, opened in 1998, improving efficiency by developing various robots, holds the Guinness World Record for the longest sus- including the welding robot. In recent years, Kawasaki pension bridge linking Kobe with Awaji Island. has been aiming for a world where humans and robots Kobe-based companies include ShinMaywa Indus- can coexist, by developing humanoid robots that can tries, which succeeded in developing the world’s help people in a disaster. Manufacturing in Kobe is highest-performing amphibious aircraft for air-sea ever evolving, reading the trends of the next era.

34 An immersive look at Kobe’s long history of manufacturing and engineering, whether handmade and traditional or high-tech and record-breaking.

Time required Max Capacity C A B

D

CITY CENTRE KCB CITY CENTRE

A Gain insight into Japanese B See it, feel it, experience it : woodcraft and architecture Kawasaki Technology ! Japan’s only specialist carpentry museum Kawasaki’s innovative products for land, showcases the outstanding skills of tra- sea, and air transport are gathered here: ditional craftsmen, with an opportunity to bullet trains, ships, helicopters, and world- try a woodworking class. famous motorcycles. Culture Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum Kawasaki Good Times World 2-3 hours Negotiable Culture www.khi.co.jp/ kawasakiworld /english/

CULTURAL AREA KCB COASTAL AREA KCB

C Discover the advances of D Reach the top of the world’s Japan’s aviation industry longest suspension bridge At commercial and amphibious aircraft Ascend the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, a sus- specialists ShinMaywa, explore the US-2, pension bridge with a length of 3,911m. From the world’s only seaplane able to land in its 300m high tower, take in a 360° view rough seas with a 3m wave height. while learning the story of its construction.

ShinMaywa Industries Technical visit Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge Technical visit 1-1.5 hours Negotiable 3 hours 42 pax

35 WELLBEING

Harmony between nature and the city

Surrounded by the Seto Inland Sea and Mt. Rokko, Kobe has long been inspired by the power of nature to keep the mind and body healthy. Arima Onsen, in the Rokko mountain range, is known as the oldest hot spring in Japan. It takes six million years for moisture and seawater deep below the surface to be trans- formed into Arima’s geothermal spring water, in that time becoming rich in minerals such as iron and salt. Arima is one of the few that contains seven of the nine hot spring components that Japan recognises as having therapeutic effects. There is a record of a 6th century emperor healing his body here, and in the Edo period（1603-1868）it was famous all over the country as a hot spring re- treat, just as it is today. Kobe’s mountaineering culture has been established since the Meiji era（1868-1912）. Drawing inspiration from Kobe’s natural assets, to this day citizens em- brace an outdoors lifestyle, running along Mt. Rokko and the coastline to keep the mind and body healthy.

36 From ancient landscapes and traditional culture to city-centre relaxation and cutting-edge medicine,

Kobe has wellbeing at its heart. C

Time required Max Capacity A

B

D

MOUNTAIN AREA KCB CITY CENTRE KCB

A Walk through ancient forest B Practice yoga in the garden to reach a mountain-top temple tea room Hike through virgin forest in the Rokko Take a yoga class at the tea house in the Mountains, to the top of Mt Maya. There, Sorakuen Garden before exploring this visit Mayasan Tenjoji Temple, and experi- classic example of a Japanese landscape ence a meditation session led by monks. garden.

Mt. Maya / Tenjoji Temple Culture Sorakuen Garden / Kanshintei 4.5 hours 20 pax Nature 1 hour 10 to 15 pax Culture

KOBE BIOMEDICAL ARIMA HOT SPRINGS KCB KCB INNOVATION CLUSTER C Experience the culture of D Health promotion in the “Arima Geiko” medical city of Kobe Watch the traditional performances of A private medical partner company in the Arima geisha, before taking a rare opportu- city provides medical tours. In addition to nity to talk to a working geisha for insights health checkups and beauty care, we can into this unique and mysterious world. arrange tours of various medical facilities.

Arima Onsen Culture Technical visit 3 hours 20 pax Varies on request Negotiable

37 and MORE KCB Kobe Convention Bureau unique package 10 more We have created original packages. Reservations are required. experiences to For details, scan the QR code enjoy in Kobe to visit our website.

Join the festivities on KCB Enjoy authentic food KCB 1 a nighttime cruise of 2 like a local Kobe harbour At the Suidosuji arcade, accompany a lo- Charter a cruise and experience the atmos- cal guide and discover specialist stores phere of a Japanese festival through the and street food. Enjoy authentic local Bon-Odori folk dance, music, singing, and culture - and conversation with Suidosuji’s carnival games, while enjoying iconic views. shopkeepers.

Kobe Bay Cruise Team building Suidosuji Arcade Food 1.5 hours 100 pax Culture 2 hours 10 pax Culture

Watch a tuna-filleting KCB Visit Akashi’s seafood KCB 3 display and appreciate 4 auction for a one-of-a-kind high-end sushi experience Witness an expert fillet a 70kg tuna at Experience the live seafood auction at the fish market, and learn sushi-making Akashi harbour, surrounded by the abun- techniques from a professional chef while dant fishing grounds of the Seto Inland enjoying top grade tuna cuts. Sea. Don’t miss an exceptional sushi lunch.

Kobe City Central Wholesale Market Akashi Tourism Association Food 3 hours 60 pax Food 2 hours 35 pax Culture

38 Cook okonomiyaki at KCB Learn how to worship KCB 5 the birthplace of Japanese 6 at a Shinto shrine sauces Discover 1,800 years of history and the rit- Explore the Oliver Sauce factory, founded uals of the Shinto religion at Ikuta Shrine. in 1923, before learning how to cook With private hire of the main worship hall okonomiyaki from the leader of a pres- available, enjoy gagaku, the musical art of tigious cookery school. the Japanese imperial court.

Oliver Sauce Food Ikuta Shrine Culture 3 hours 15 pax 2 hours 40 pax

Reveal the traditions KCB Art and architecture 7 of tatami mats 8 at the Hyogo Prefectural Through this “mat-making” workshop that Museum of Art conveys the importance of living mindfully, Appreciate the city’s art museum, designed learn about the characteristics of tatami by celebrated Japanese architect Tadao mats and their intrinsic relationship with Ando, and its unique collection centred on Japanese culture. modern and contemporary art.

Maeda Tatami Seisakusho Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art 1.5 hours 40 pax Culture www.artm.pref.hyogo.jp/eng/ Culture

Healing in the herb gardens Explore Himeji Castle, 9 10 a world cultural heritage Take the cable car from Shin-Kobe station Built more than 400 years ago, Himeji castle to the mountainside herb gardens. With 12 has wonderful views from the top of its unique gardens, enjoy dishes using herbs main keep and labyrinthine paths around picked that morning, while overlooking its extensive grounds. Kobe.

Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens Himeji Castle www.kobeherb.com/en/ Nature www.himejicastle. jp/en/ Culture

39 GOOD TO KNOW

Transportation tickets that can be used in Kobe city Basic information on Kobe Kobe City Loop Bus 1-day pass Fee: 680 JPY（adult） Time zone 340 JPY（elementary school students and younger） * Free for up to 2 accompanying children（1 to 6 years old）per adult ［ Sales location］Onboard, Kobe Information Center Sannomiya, Shin-Kobe station tourist information centre Kobe City Bus & Subway 1-day pass Fee: 1,040 JPY Kobe Beijing Paris London Washington D.C. ［ Sales location］Subway station staff booth, subway shop, UTC ＋9 UTC ＋8 UTC ＋1 UTC ± 0 UTC －5 subway commuter pass ticket office, Kobe station square sales office, Time difference Kobe Electric Railway Minatogawa commuter pass sales office 1 hour 8 hours 9 hours 14 hours with Kobe: － － － － Kobe 1-Day Tour Coupon（ Kobe area） Fee: 1,000 JPY Climate ［ Sales location］Subway stations, KOBE Rapid Transit Railway Shinkaichi station, Port Liner Sannomiya station / Kobe Airport station Temperature Rainfall Average temperature（℃） Precipitation（mm） Surrounded by the * All-day pass for trains in the Kobe city area with a sightseeing coupon worth 40℃ 600 Rokko Mountains and 750 JPY 30℃ 500 the Seto Inland Sea, Kobe has a temperate Port Liner discount ticket（ for groups） 20℃ 400 climate. * Please contact the Kobe Convention Bureau for details. Precipitation tends to 10℃ 300 increase during the 0℃ 200 rainy season from June to July and during the －10℃ 100 typhoon season in Sep- Sites and apps that are convenient for your stay tember. －20℃ 0 Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Official Travel Guide of Kobe Introducing the latest information on Kobe as well as events, sightseeing spots, and sample ● Voltage 100V / Frequency 60Hz ● Currency Yen（JPY） itineraries.

● Connectivity Japan Official Travel App There are KOBE Free Wi-Fi bases（about 250 bases and more than A comprehensive travel app that allows you to 500 locations）in the city. search everything from tourist spots to routes, ● Major events ATMs to duty-free shops. Jan Arima Onsen Irizome-shiki ［ ］ Safety tips Apr-May Infiorata Kobe May Kobe Festival ［ ］ ［ ］ A disaster information service app. ［ Aug ］Minato Kobe Marine Fireworks Festival Distributes disaster information such ［ Sep］Kobe Chinatown’s Mid-Autumn Festival as earthquake early warnings, tsunami warnings, and special weather warn- iPhone Android ［ Oct ］Kobe Jazz Street ［ Nov］Kobe Marathon ings in five languages. ［ Dec］Kobe Luminarie

40 ACCESS TO KOBE

From overseas Within Japan Kansai International Airport, located 30-60 minutes from Kobe. Shin-Kobe train station connects Kobe with other There are direct flights to and from more than 70 cities around the world. cities on the Shinkansen route. Kobe Airport is connected to more than 10 cities, including Tokyo.

13 h From major Kansai cities to Sannomiya 13 h Approx. 20min by train from Osaka East Asia Approx. 50min by train from Kyoto 3h Approx. 1h 20min by train from Nara Europe 18h North America

7h 25h

Africa Southeast Asia 9h

Sapporo 2h 5 min Australia South America

Hiroshima Tokyo From Kansai International Airport to Kobe 1h 15min 1h 20min 2h 37min By ferry（Bay Shuttle） Approx. 30min to Kobe Airport Fukuoka One per hour, 16 per day 2h 15min Nagoya 1h By airport bus Kobe Approx. 60min to Sannomiya station Two per hour, 24 per day Okinawa From Osaka（ Itami）Airport to Kobe 1h 55min By airport bus Approx. 40min to Sannomiya station 28 per day * The above is the number of flights / trains during normal operation. Please check with each company for details.

41 Kobe Convention Bureau 6-9-1, Minatojima Nakamachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture 650-0046 TEL ＋81-78-303-0090 https://kobe-convention.jp/en/