Why You Should Visit
Born in 1971 from the merger of the historic 'Minato no Matsuri' and the 'Kobe Carnival', this is Kobe's largest civic festival. Held every year on the third Sunday of May around Sannomiya and the Waterfront area, the festival fills the city with parades, stage performances, and lively celebrations. The 53rd edition takes place on Sunday, May 17, 2026, with the parade starting from Kyomachi-suji street.
Essentials
- location
- Sannomiya Former Foreign Settlement & Waterfront Area
- period
- May 17, 2026 (Sun)
- Time
- 11:00–16:30
- cost
- Free
- access
- 5-min walk from Sannomiya or Motomachi Station
- NOTE
- 【District Festivals (May 9–30)】
May 9 (Sat) Higashinada: Higashinada Uhara Festival (Sumiyoshi Park, 10:30–17:00)
May 16 (Sat) Chuo: Fureau Chuo Carnival 2026 (Higashi Yuenchi, 11:00–16:00) / Hyogo: Happi Hiroba (Minatogawa Park, 11:00–17:00) / Tarumi: Tarumikko Festival 2026 (Maiko Park, 10:00–17:00)
May 23 (Sat) Nagata: Nagata Festival (Wakamatsu Park, 11:00–16:00) / Suma: Suma Music no Mori (Suma Rikyu Park, 11:00–17:00) / Nishi: Nishi Midori & Taiyou Festival (Plenty Plaza, 12:00–17:00)
May 30 (Sat) Nada: Rokko Family Festival (Ojikoen, 11:00–17:00) / Kita: Kitakita Festival (Arima Hall, 11:30–17:00)
【Other Related Events】
May 10 (Sun): Kobe Port Cutter Race 8:00–16:00 | West of Shinko Pier No.1
May 13 (Wed): Harbor Ceremony (morning) | Kobe Port Oasis
FAQ
Is there an admission fee for the Kobe Festival?
No admission fee. The parade, all stages, and food/market areas are all free.
What is the parade route?
The parade starts near the Kyomachi-suji / Hanakei-sen intersection and runs along Sannomiya Chuo-dori. The main parade runs from 12:00 to 16:30.
How do I get there?
The venue is within walking distance of Sannomiya Station (JR, Hankyu, Hanshin, and Subway lines). Public transport is recommended as the area gets very crowded.
What happens if it rains?
The festival generally takes place rain or shine, though the program may be adjusted. Latest updates can be found on the official website and social media.
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