Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown)

Nankinmachi (南京町) is a lively and bustling Chinatown located in the heart of Kobe, Japan. Developed by Chinese merchants who arrived after the port of Kobe opened to foreign trade in 1868, this vibrant district is now a focal point of the Chinese community in the Kansai Region. Its name, "Nankinmachi," derives from Nanjing, the former capital of China.

Visitors flock to Nankinmachi for its lively atmosphere and diverse shopping and dining options. The district is home to two main streets, lined with shops, food stands, and restaurants offering a wide variety of Chinese dishes, such as ramen, steamed buns (manju), tapioca drinks, and other treats. While some of the dishes have been "Japanized," the flavors remain authentic and offer a unique fusion of cultures.