Kobe’s Chinatown in Motomachi: 6 Recommended Gourmet and Sightseeing Spots

In the Motomachi area of the port city of Kobe, there is a Chinatown lined with Chinese restaurants, much like Yokohama’s. Although it’s not as large as Yokohama’s, you’ll still want to have a few target shops in mind as you go. In this article, we’ve carefully selected especially recommended gourmet spots, as well as sightseeing spots near Motomachi Station outside of Chinatown.

1. The outdoor exhibition facility open 24 hours: “Kobe Port Earthquake Memorial Park”

Located at the entrance of Meriken Wharf within Meriken Park, the “Kobe Port Earthquake Memorial Park” preserves the state of damage from the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake exactly as it was to convey the record of the disaster to future generations, and allows visitors to view it. As an outdoor exhibition, it is open 24 hours a day, year-round.
In addition to viewing the actual damage, there are exhibits using photos, timelines, videos, and dioramas. Explanations are also provided in English, Chinese, and Korean so overseas visitors can understand. By viewing the displays, visitors can feel both the speed of recovery and the tragedy of the earthquake, making this a solemn place. When sightseeing around Motomachi, take time to reflect on the tragedy of the 1995 earthquake as well.

2. The ever-popular shop with constant lines: “Roshoki”

Beloved since 1915 in Kobe Motomachi’s Chinatown, “Roshoki” is the famous shop said to be the originator of the term “butamanjū” (pork buns), and it constantly draws long lines. They adapted the Tianjin baozi—a bun famous in China’s Tianjin region—to Japanese tastes and gave it a name familiar to Japanese diners.
Be sure to try the freshly made pork buns piping hot. If a takeout bun has cooled, re-steam it before eating. They’re smaller than typical nikuman and look like slightly larger xiaolongbao. The skin is chewy, and the filling is boldly seasoned. They’re delicious even without soy sauce, vinegar, or mustard. Perfect for eating while you stroll.

3. “Sōrakuen,” home to many Important Cultural Properties

“Sōrakuen” is a chisen kaiyū-shiki (pond-centered stroll) Japanese garden about 500 meters northeast of Motomachi Station. Many facilities here are designated Important Cultural Properties, and since it was registered as a National Place of Scenic Beauty in January 2006, many people have come to visit.
Three sites are Important Cultural Properties: the “Funayakata,” the former Kodera family stable, and the former Hassam House. The Funayakata is the superstructure of a river barge brought ashore and is the only surviving river royal barge in Japan. The former Hassam House is a Japanese–Western eclectic residence moved from the foreign residence district in Kitano where Mr. Hassam lived. With its sago palm garden, great camphor tree, azaleas, and more, this is a recommended spot for those who want to enjoy beautiful scenery in the city.

4. Famous for cheesecake and cheese dishes: “Kanonya”

Founded in 1975, “Kanonya” is an antique-style shop famous for its cheesecake and cheese dishes. The cheesecake in particular is a hugely popular item that has been featured in many magazines and on TV.
This palm-sized round cheesecake uses pure Danish cheese. The flavor has remained unchanged for over 50 years since the shop’s founding. Each cake is baked individually, allowing you to enjoy the exquisite harmony of melty cheese and sponge sweetness. If taking it home, warm it in a toaster oven for 3 to 5 minutes before eating. Other recommended in-store menu items include cheese fondue and chilled pasta. With a wide variety of drinks including coffee, it’s also perfect for a leisurely chat.

5. The world’s only museum: “KOBE Lampwork Glass Museum”

This is the world’s only museum exhibiting glass crafts such as tonbo-dama (lampwork glass beads). Tonbo-dama are hollow glass beads with patterns created using two or more colored glasses and made by the lampworking technique. The collection ranges from intricate, delicate works to pieces brimming with individuality.
The studio regularly holds classes in lampwork beads and glasswork, teaching techniques used in actual production and tips on color combinations. There are also hands-on classes for children where they can create their own original bead in about 10 minutes. Naturally, various lampwork pieces can be purchased at the museum shop as well—perfect as interior décor.

6. “Kobe Korokke Motomachi Main Store,” offering a wide variety of croquettes

“Kobe Korokke” selects ingredients carefully to sell safe, delicious croquettes. Using fluffy potatoes grown by farmers in Tanno-cho, Kitami City, Hokkaido—chosen as the best for croquettes—they offer a wide variety, from basic potato croquettes to cream, shumai, and risotto-style croquettes.
The shop features a unique set of official characters: a beckoning-cat father and mother with six kittens, delighting customers who come to buy. In Chinatown, the store stands out with its unusual modern design based on “white,” making it stylish and easy to find. Freshly fried, piping-hot croquettes are the crispiest and tastiest, but they’re also famous for being delicious even when cool. Add them to your list of items for snacking as you stroll.

◎ Summary

If you plan to sample small portions while strolling through Chinatown, you can easily visit all three food shops introduced here. While Motomachi is best known for Chinatown, be sure to extend your walk to the recommended sightseeing spots as well. There are several attractions within easy reach, so please use this as a reference for your visit.