Kobe Artists Museum

The Museum of Art in Kobe is a municipal museum located on the 1st floor of the Kobe Fashion Museum on Rokko Island in Higashinada Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture. Its exterior features a bold, futuristic design reminiscent of a UFO. As an international trading port, Kobe has long been associated with images such as “cosmopolitan,” “stylish,” “modern,” “bright,” and “open,” and many artists drawn to these “Kobe-like” qualities are said to have been based in the city and left significant marks on Japan’s art scene. The Museum of Art in Kobe introduces and exhibits works—primarily from the city’s collection—by a wide range of artists, including those active today. Access is via JR Kobe Line Sumiyoshi Station or Hanshin Railway Uozaki Station, transfer to the Rokko Liner, and then about a 1-minute walk from Island Center Station. For special exhibitions, gallery tours with curator commentary are also popular. To enjoy Kobe-related art more fully, it’s also recommended to visit together with the Koiso Memorial Museum of Art, located on the same Rokko Island.