• Famous Area
2025.01.06

5 shopping spots to stop by when you visit Kobe

Kobe is a city of attractive shopping destinations, where historical buildings and modern facilities are in harmony.

A popular tourist destination, Kobe offers a diverse range of shopping areas for those interested in fashion, dining, and art. The Kobe Old Settlement and Kobe Harborland are worth visiting for both sightseeing and shopping.

We have therefore selected five of the best shopping spots in Kobe to introduce to you.

Kobe Old Settlement

神戸旧居留地

Source: https://www.kobe-kyoryuchi.com/

The Kobe Old Settlement is an area that was inhabited by foreigners in the 19th century and is a place of history and exoticism.

Here, stores that house luxury brands such as Prada and Louis Vuitton line the streets, and it is also an attractive place to experience the sophisticated side of Kobe.
The streets are beautifully maintained, and it is noteworthy that visitors can enjoy shopping while strolling the streets.

There are also many antique stores and select stores where you can find unique items. If you are a fashion lover, this is an area you should visit at least once.

Kobe Harbor Land

神戸ハーバーランド

Source: https://harborland.co.jp/

Kobe Harborland is a large commercial area where visitors can shop and dine while enjoying the scenery of Kobe Harbor.

Here, commercial facilities such as Kobe Mosaic are clustered together, offering a variety of fashion, sundry goods, restaurants, and amusement spots.
The promenade, Ferris wheel, and night lights are also beautiful and provide a romantic atmosphere.

Illumination events and family-oriented events are held seasonally, making it a sightseeing spot where visitors can enjoy themselves all day long.

Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street

神戸元町商店街

Source: https://www.kobe-motomachi.or.jp/

Kobe Motomachi Shopping Street is a historical shopping area located in Chuo Ward, Kobe.

The 1.2-km arcade is lined with a wide variety of stores and is popular among tourists.
Japanese-style souvenirs and local specialties, as well as many modern cafes and restaurants, allow visitors to enjoy shopping and dining at the same time.
In addition, many items are offered at special prices during biannual sales, an attractive event for shopaholics.

Events held in the area are also plentiful, and a photography exhibition is currently being held in the shopping district.

In addition, there is some sort of event such as the “Motomachi Ichibangai Wednesday Market,” and other noteworthy seasonal events such as a fortune-telling market and Halloween-related events are also held in Motomachi Ichibangai.

Mint Kobe

ミント神戸

Source: https://mint-kobe.jp/

Mint Kobe is a high-rise shopping mall offering fashion, entertainment, and dining.

Located just a short distance from Sannomiya Station, it is easily accessible.
Inside the building are the latest fashion brands, cosmetic stores, and general merchandise stores to meet a wide range of needs.
There is also a cinema complex on the top floor, where you can enjoy watching movies.

After shopping, you can relax at one of the restaurants while enjoying the beautiful view of Kobe.

Sannomiya

神戸三宮

Source: https://www.feel-kobe.jp/area-guide/sannomiya-motomachi/

Sannomiya, the center of Kobe, is a vibrant commercial area.
Large department stores and shopping malls are clustered here, and it is known as Kobe’s representative fashion center.

Sannomiya Center Street, in particular, is lined with boutiques and restaurants, attracting many people, from young people to tourists.

The underground shopping mall around the station also offers a comfortable shopping experience even on rainy days.
With a wide variety of stores, this is an area that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Conclusion

Kobe is a city with many shopping spots that combine history and modernity.
The areas introduced here, such as the Old Settlement and Harborland, are rich in individuality, and you will discover something new every time you visit.

Enjoy a shopping experience unique to Kobe while experiencing the fashion, gourmet food, and culture of the city.