Why You Should Visit
The Kobe edition of Japan's largest sake bar-hop, held simultaneously in 15 cities on 1 October, 'Nihonshu Day'. In 2026, 33 Kobe restaurants and bars each pair with a brewery from around the country and pour its sake. To join, buy a 'Sakazukin badge' (800 yen) in advance at any participating venue and wear it on the day: it gets you a free first glass at every venue, after which you hop between them in any order. Most venues are in Sannomiya and Motomachi, with a few in Iwaya–Shinzaike and Suma, so it makes sense to pick an area and stay there.
Essentials
- location
- 33 participating restaurants and bars across Kobe (27 in Sannomiya–Motomachi, 3 in Iwaya–Oji Koen–Shinzaike, 3 in Suma)
- period
- October 1, 2026 (Thu)
- Time
- Varies by venue (see the participating-shop list on the official site)
- cost
- Sakazukin badge 800 yen (tax incl., valid at all venues); food and further drinks charged at each venue
- Links
- Kobe · Gluten-free
- access
- Most venues are within walking distance of Sannomiya (JR/Hankyu/Hanshin) or Motomachi (JR/Hanshin) stations. The Iwaya–Shinzaike venues are near Hanshin Iwaya and Shinzaike stations; the Suma venues near JR/Sanyo Suma Station. It is a drinking event, so use public transport.
- TICKETS / REGISTRATION
- Sakazukin badges (800 yen) are on sale in advance at participating venues; advance purchase is recommended as they may sell out on the day. One badge works at every venue and gets you a free first glass at each.
- NOTE
Venue areas
- Sannomiya–Motomachi: 27 venues
- Iwaya–Oji Koen–Shinzaike: 3 venues
- Suma: 3 venues
Background
- Started in Osaka in 2008 because 1 October is 'Nihonshu Day'
- In 2026 it runs simultaneously in 15 cities: Sapporo, Sendai, Tokyo, Shizuoka, Kanazawa, Nagoya, Fukui, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Awaji Island, Okayama, Hiroshima, Izumo and Fukuoka
Notes
- No alcohol for under-20s; ID may be requested
- Do not come by car, motorbike or bicycle
See the official site for the full list of venues, partner breweries and opening hours.
Basque cheesecakeBaked with rice flour, no wheat. Whole 12cm, serves 2-3¥4,700 incl. shipping (Japan only)FAQ
Where can I buy a badge?
How many venues does one badge cover?
What time does it start?
Calendar
Add it to your calendar so you can check back on it later.
Events
Events nearby & around the same time
Other events happening around the same time or in a similar area.

8/1 - 9/30
KOBE MOON HOPPING 2026
Participating venues around Sannomiya, Kobe (one in Tarumi Ward)

9/1 - 9/30
Sannomiya NOOK Backstreet Stamp Rally
15 participating shops around Sannomiya & Motomachi

8/1 - 9/30
Kobe Old Pulteney Bar Rally
Participating bars across Kobe (197 bars citywide)
10/3 - 10/4
KOBE CRAFTBEER STREET 2026
Sannomiya Center Gai Shopping Street

9/26
Rappappa Night 2026
Minatogawa Park
Events
What to do in Kobe this weekend?

5/2 - 3/20
Kobe Port Weekend Fireworks 2026–27 | Weekend Fireworks off Meriken Park
Meriken Park

7/30 - 9/30
Miffy × Kobe Port Tower: Night Time
Kobe Port Tower and venues across the Kobe waterfront

8/1 - 9/30
KOBE MOON HOPPING 2026
Participating venues around Sannomiya, Kobe (one in Tarumi Ward)

9/19 - 9/20
Kobe Coffee Village | Seaside Coffee Festival
Big Roof Plaza, Mitsui Outlet Park Marine Pia Kobe
10/3
Bshop Ongakusai 2026
Kobe (Venue TBA. Previous: Meriken Park)

10/3 - 10/4
KOBE AUTUMN FESTIVAL 2026
Sannomiya Central Street to the Waterfront (pedestrian zone)
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