![[February 2026] Selected Events in Kobe | Lunar New Year, Setsubun, Fireworks & Airport 20th Anniversary](https://res.cloudinary.com/deevlog/image/upload/f_auto,q_70,w_1000,c_limit/v1763443182/KOBE%20Brighten/spots/kobe-nagata-shrine/DSC00331_ewjehy.jpg)
In February 2026, Kobe comes alive with a mix of traditional rituals, exotic Lunar New Year celebrations, harbor fireworks, and the 20th-anniversary festivities of Kobe Airport. From the final week of Luminarie to the thermal energy of Chinatown, here is your guide to winter in Kobe.
Key Dates for February 2026
- Feb 14 (Sat) – 15 (Sun): Valentine’s Weekend featuring the Kobe Airport 20th Anniversary Festival and Fireworks.
- Feb 21 (Sat): The best sightseeing day in February. Experience the peak of the Lunar New Year Festival and the Harbor Fireworks on the same day.
- Winter Tip: The sea breeze at the harbor is colder than you think. Warm clothing and hot drinks are highly recommended.
Event Schedule: February 2026
| Date | Event | Venue | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Until Feb 8 | Kobe Luminarie | Higashi-Yuenchi , Meriken Park | Free areas available |
| Feb 3 (Tue) | Nagata Shrine Setsubun Ritual | Nagata Shrine | Free |
| Feb 14 (Sat) | Kobe Port Weekend Fireworks | Meriken Park Offshore | Free |
| Feb 14–15 | Kobe Airport 20th Anniversary | Harborland umie, Duo Dome | Free |
| Feb 17 (Tue) | Lunar New Year (Actual Day) | Nankinmachi (Chinatown) | Free |
| Feb 21 (Sat) | Kobe Port Weekend Fireworks | Meriken Park Offshore | Free |
| Feb 21–23 | Lunar New Year Festival (Peak) | Nankinmachi (Chinatown) | Free |
Event Highlights
Nankinmachi Lunar New Year Festival (Shunsetsu)
Kobe’s Chinatown hosts one of Japan’s largest Lunar New Year celebrations.
- The Vibe: Red and gold decorations fill the streets.
- The Highlight (Feb 21-23): Lion dances (Shishimai) and Dragon dances move through the crowds to ward off evil and bring good fortune. It is the most vibrant time of the year for Nankinmachi .
Kobe Port Weekend Fireworks
A romantic 5-minute firework display accompanied by music.
- When: Feb 14 (Valentine’s) & Feb 21, starting at 18:00.
- Best Spot: Meriken Park offers the most immersive experience right by the water.
Nagata Shrine “Tsuinashiki” (Feb 3)
A unique Setsubun ritual with over 650 years of history. Unlike most festivals where ogres (Oni) are chased away, here they are treated as messengers of the gods who drive away calamity with torches.
Recommended Itinerary: Feb 21 (The “Festival Hop”)
- 11:30 | Arrive at Nankinmachi: Watch the “Lion Dance” (Saisei) and enjoy street food like steamed buns and dumplings.
- 13:00 | Otsunaka-dori Stroll: Explore retro buildings turned into trendy boutiques and cafes between Chinatown and the sea.
- 15:00 | Meriken Park: Take a break at a seaside cafe and enjoy the view of the Port Tower.
- 18:00 | Weekend Fireworks: Watch the fireworks light up the winter sky from the Meriken Park pier.
- 18:30 | Dinner in West Motomachi: Escape the crowds and find a hidden bistro or craft beer bar for a relaxing dinner.
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