Museum · Kobe Sannomiya / Former Foreign Settlement
Kobe City Museum 神戸市立博物館
City history and art museum in a 1935 neoclassical bank building in Kobe's old foreign settlement, known for its Namban art.
Hours9:30-17:30 (Fri-Sat until 20:00); last entry 30 min before
ClosedMondays (next day if holiday), New Year
PriceAdult (collection galleries): ¥300
Getting thereSannomiya-Hanadokeimae Station (Port Liner), 3 min; JR Sannomiya 10 min
Time needed1-2 hours
Address24 Kyomachi, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0034
Websitekobecitymuseum.jp
About
Kobe City Museum occupies a columned former bank in the old Foreign Settlement. Its collection follows Kobe's history as a port, from ancient bronze bells to the city's opening to foreign trade. It is best known for Namban art, Japanese paintings of 16th-17th century Portuguese and Spanish visitors. Big touring exhibitions are held regularly.
Highlights
- Namban art collection
- Neoclassical 1935 bank building
- Kobe port and foreign settlement history
- Major touring exhibitions
Tips
- Late opening until 20:00 on Fridays and Saturdays
- Permanent collection is cheap; special exhibitions cost more
- A short walk from Sannomiya or Motomachi
Open in Google Maps · Info checked 2026-10-11
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