Kobe Chinatown, known as Nankinmachi (南京町), is one of Japan’s three major Chinatowns, alongside Yokohama Chinatown and Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown. Located in the Motomachi district of central Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, this compact neighbourhood is known for its Chinese restaurants, street food stalls, colourful lanterns and traditional Chinese-style gates.

Established following the opening of Kobe Port to international trade in the 19th century, Nankinmachi reflects the city’s long history of cultural exchange. The opening of Kobe Port to the world brought Chinese immigrants, who settled in the area around the Kobe Nankinmachi. Today, it is a popular destination for visitors looking to sample Chinese cuisine, browse local shops and explore one of Kobe’s liveliest shopping districts.

Nankinmachi occupies a compact area of approximately 270 metres from east to west and 110 metres from north to south. Its streets are lined with restaurants, food stalls and shops selling Chinese ingredients, tea, souvenirs and other goods.

The main entrances are marked by traditional Chinese-style gates, while red lanterns, decorative details and colourful storefronts give the neighbourhood a distinctive appearance. At the centre of Chinatown is Nankinmachi Square, a small open space surrounded by restaurants and shops that serves as a convenient meeting point.

What to eat in Kobe Chinatown

Without a doubt, the food is the main attraction of Nankinmachi, with everything from steamed buns and dumplings to noodles and traditional Chinese dishes available throughout the neighbourhood, either in sit down restaurants, or as street food.

Butaman (steamed pork buns)

Butaman are steamed buns filled with seasoned pork and are among the best-known foods within the Kobe Chinatown. The soft, slightly sweet dough surrounds a savoury filling, creating a satisfying bite.

Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings)

Xiaolongbao are small Chinese dumplings containing a savoury filling and hot soup-like broth. The dumplings need to be eaten carefully to avoid spilling the hot soup inside. Take a small bite out of the top of the dumpling, suck out the soup, and then finish off the dumpling.

Gyoza (dumplings)

Gyoza are Japanese-style dumplings influenced by Chinese cuisine. Usually filled with minced pork, cabbage and spices, they are commonly pan-fried until crisp on the underside while remaining soft on top. Kobe has its own local variation of this iconic dish, served with miso-based dipping sauce for an extra bit of umami.

Explore Hyogo

Top Attractions

Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

Japan's Largest Suspension Bridge

Kobe Chinatown

Historic Chinatown in Kobe

Kobe Port Tower

Port tower with beautiful views of Kobe City

Sumaura Koen

Scenic hilltop park with Kobe views

Nunobiki Herb Garden

Scenic hillside garden with herbs, flowers, and ropeway views.

Hours and Admission

Accessing the Kobe Chinatown

Kobe Chinatown is easily accessed by foot from Motomachi Station along the Hanshin Line. The walk is only about 2-5 minutes depending on which exit you departed the station from. Alternatively, Sannonmiya station is nearby, being only about a 10-15 minute walk. Sannomiya Station is a JR station, so if you have a JR pass, please use this station as the JR Rail pass will not cover the Hanshin Line.