10 Best Things to Do After Dinner in Kobe

The Mosaic Big Ferris Wheel is a popular attraction that overlooks the Kobe Port. Rising to a towering 54 metres, this ride offers magnificent views of the glittering city and Kobe Bridge, one of the world’s longest suspension bridges. After sundown, the wheel lights up with some 120,000 colourful LED lights as it spins at the water’s edge.

The Ferris wheel is located within Kobe Harborland, a waterside entertainment area that draws the city’s young couples. After your turn around the wheel, bask in the evening glow with a stroll along the waterfront promenade.

Kobe Port Tower has been a seafront landmark for Kobe since it was erected in 1963. The 108-metre-high red lattice tower features an observation deck with views across the bay and out to the Rokko mountain range. Night-time views are particularly dazzling with the nightly 'light show' on nearby Ashaki Kaiko Bridge.

Kobe Port Tower's curved tube-like shape was inspired by the tsuzumi traditional drum instrument used in kabuki plays. Don't miss the revolving café, or the intriguing Museum of Light on the third and fourth floors. The tower is set in Meriken Park, where there's a small earthquake memorial that's worth visiting if you have time.

The view from the top of Kobe’s Mount Maya is ranked among Japan’s top 3 nighttime vistas. Located on the outskirts of the city, the mountain ascends to an impressive 700 metres above sea level and offers remarkable views from the Kikuseidai observation deck. 

If you have the time, head up while there’s still some daylight to catch the sunset and see the city gradually come aglow. Dress warmly, as it can be windy and considerably colder on the mountain than in the city. The observation deck is accessible by bus, car, cable car and a scenic ropeway. 

Sone is Kobe's original jazz club, open since 1969, and still draws crowds looking for top-notch live music. Most nights there are 4 live sets, showcasing a range of jazz sounds from beloved standards to inspired improvisation. The low-ceilinged club is attended by friendly staff and has the cosy atmosphere of New York’s jazz joints, only with a little more space. 

The club’s drink menu is populated primarily by classic cocktails and a sizeable collection of Japanese and Scotch whisky. Western-style dinner fare and bar snacks are also available. If you plan to visit on a weekend, make a reservation to ensure you don’t get caught in the line at the door.

Garage Paradise is the city’s venue for live sets and DJs playing a range of music from R&B and soul to hip-hop and house. Venture down a long flight of stairs to find the intimate basement venue, which provides great acoustics and a comfortable candlelit atmosphere. 

Choose from a list of more than 100 drinks and sit back and enjoy the music. If you’re in the mood to move, you’ll find plenty of patrons on the dance floor on lively weekend evenings. Between sets, visitors shoot pool and hang out by the bar.  

New München Kobe Taishikan is a spacious German-style beer hall with a wide selection of beer and cocktails and a huge menu of pub food and izakaya-style snacks. Brews on tap include a 100% malt house brew, a classic hefeweizen and a Yebisu dark beer. You’ll also find a selection of beer cocktails, which sweeten the draft beers with ginger ale, tomato juice or cassis liqueur. 

The bar offers an all-you-can-drink menu and a karaoke setup, making it a popular spot for groups on a night out. Don’t forget to order a basket of the crispy house karaage, said to be some of the best fried chicken in town.

Emerald is the main bar at Hotel Okura Kobe, a classy 5-star hotel in the city centre. Follow the gentle jazz soundtrack through the dimly-lit lobby to find yourself in a swanky cocktail lounge. Take a seat at the bar to watch the experienced bartenders mix cocktails to perfection or find a quiet table where you can enjoy a glass of champagne and intimate conversation.  

In addition to a roster of classic cocktails, the bar offers several originals, the standout being a cocktail tailored to the flavours of seasonal fresh fruit. You’ll also find an extensive selection of Japanese whiskies and liqueurs from around the world.

As the name suggests, International Bar 1134 is a multicultural hub offering a perfect blend of relaxation, dining and late-night revelry right in the heart of the lively Sannomiya district. The bar's global appeal is reflected in its English-speaking staff and diverse food menu, available until midnight.

As the weekend rolls in, this lively bar metamorphoses into an energetic club, attracting a vibrant, youthful crowd. Every Friday and Saturday, the rhythm of club DJs sets the tempo for the night. Try the tempting cocktail deals to keep you hydrated for a night of dancing. 

Round One is a popular entertainment centre, perfect for after-dinner fun in Kobe. Located just a short walk from the Sannomiya Station, this multi-level venue has an energetic atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot to extend your night out.

With a variety of activities, ranging from bowling, billiards and karaoke to arcade games and sports simulators, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy quality time with family or friends. On weekends, the complex stays open 24 hours, allowing for non-stop fun. There are some age limits on entry times, so be sure to check in advance if you’re bringing children.

Roberta, inc. is an intimate record bar that plays an eclectic mix of pop, soul and Japanese old blues music from the '70s and '80s as well as contemporary tunes. Located just a few blocks from the Sannomiya Station, this gem is loved by passionate music enthusiasts and perfect for winding down your evening in Kobe.

Enjoy delicious drinks while immersing yourself in nostalgic tunes, and feel free to request your favourite songs for a personal touch. The bar is especially crowded on weekend evenings, and with only about 10 seats, it's wise to call ahead to confirm availability.