Kobe Airport is conveniently located just 18 minutes from the heart of Kobe’s Sannomiya area via the Port Liner. In April 2025, a second terminal building was opened, marking the start of international charter flights. Travelers can now easily visit five cities across three countries and regions: South Korea, China, and Taiwan, including Seoul (Incheon), Shanghai (Pudong), Nanjing, Taipei (Taoyuan), and Taichung.
In this article, we provide a complete guide to the increasingly attractive Kobe Airport! An editor from Kobe will explain in detail how to access Kobe City and other major Kansai cities from the airport, interesting souvenirs, shop and lounge information, and more.
* If you purchase products or make reservations introduced in this article, a portion of the sales may be returned to FUN! JAPAN.
What Is Kobe Airport? Overview and Highlights
Basic Information and History of Kobe Airport
Kobe Airport is located on an artificial island about 8km from Sannomiya. It opened on February 16, 2006, as a "symbol of reconstruction" following the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. Initially, the airport faced challenges due to operational time restrictions and postponement of internationalization, leading to a period of stagnant passenger numbers. However, in 2017, the annual number of users exceeded 3 million. According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism's 2024 airport passenger ranking, Kobe Airport recorded 3.61 million passengers, ranking 10th domestically, with numbers increasing year by year.
Excellent Access to Major Kansai Cities!
The greatest appeal of Kobe Airport is its overwhelming convenience - just 18 minutes from Sannomiya, the center of Hyogo Prefecture, via the Port Liner. Sannomiya boasts numerous attractive tourist spots, including large commercial facilities, the Kitano Ijinkan district and former foreign settlement area (symbolizing Kobe's prosperity as a port town and foreign settlement), Ikuta Shrine with its many cultural properties, and Nankinmachi (one of Japan's three major Chinatowns) in the adjacent Motomachi area.
Moreover, from Sannomiya, you can reach Osaka in 20 minutes and Kyoto in 52 minutes by train, providing excellent access to major Kansai cities. This makes Kobe Airport not only an ideal gateway for travel but also very convenient for business use.
A New International Terminal Has Opened!
In April 2025, the Terminal 2 building opened, and international charter flights began operating. It's a 3-minute walk from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2, with a shuttle bus also available.
The Terminal 2 building, with the concept "Floating on the sea, feeling the forest," is a two-story structure featuring a glass atrium. It offers an open, spacious atmosphere, and the observation deck on the second floor provides a panoramic view of Kobe's iconic mountains and beautiful sea.
Current Destinations and Routes
As a gateway for both domestic and international travel, Kobe Airport currently serves 12 cities in Japan and 5 cities abroad.
Domestic Flights
Hokkaido (New Chitose Airport), Aomori (Aomori Airport), Iwate (Hanamaki Airport), Miyagi (Sendai Airport), Niigata (Niigata Airport), Ibaraki (Ibaraki Airport), Tokyo (Haneda Airport), Nagano (Matsumoto Airport), Nagasaki (Nagasaki Airport), Kagoshima (Kagoshima Airport), Okinawa (Naha Airport), Okinawa-Miyakojima (Shimojishima Airport)
International Flights
South Korea: Seoul (Incheon International Airport)
China: Nanjing (Nanjing Lukou International Airport), Shanghai (Shanghai Pudong International Airport)
Taiwan: Taipei (Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport), Taichung (Taichung International Airport)
Airlines Operating at Kobe Airport
Six airlines, including ANA and Skymark, currently operate at Kobe Airport, offering travelers a wide range of choices.
Domestic Flights
All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan Airlines, Skymark Airlines, Solaseed Air, AIR DO, Fuji Dream Airlines, TOKI AIR
International Flights
Korean Air, Shanghai Juneyao Airlines, STARLUX Airlines, EVA Air
Access from Kobe Airport to the City! Travel Time and Fares?
There are four main ways to get from Kobe Airport to the city center. In addition to city access, buses connect the airport with Shin-Kobe Station for bullet trains, Awaji Island, and Osaka. You can also reach Kansai International Airport in just 30 minutes by high-speed ferry, making Kobe Airport an excellent travel hub.
Port Liner (Train)
The Port Liner is an automated train that connects Kobe Airport to Sannomiya in just 18 minutes. There are 8 stations between the airport and Sannomiya, and the fare is 340 yen. Peak hours are around 8:00 AM and 17:00 PM, so be sure to allow extra time if traveling then. Standard tickets and IC cards are accepted, and there are sometimes special sightseeing passes available in collaboration with local attractions.
Limousine Bus
Buses run from Kobe Airport not only to areas within the city but also to various locations throughout the Kansai region.
Shin-Kobe/Sannomiya Direction
There are two main bus routes: one goes via Subway Sannomiya Station to Shin-Kobe Station, and the other travels directly to Shin-Kobe Station. Both cost 340 yen. There is also a CITY LOOP sightseeing bus that departs from the airport, goes via Sannomiya, and tours major attractions in Kobe. The fare for CITY LOOP is 300 yen.
Osaka/Universal Studios Japan (USJ) Direction
Direct buses to Osaka Station are available. Depending on the time of day, some buses continue to Dotonbori or Fuse Station. The fare is 1,000 yen. Another route goes via Kobe Bay Sheraton Hotel to USJ, with a fare of 900 yen.
Other Kansai Areas
Buses also run from Kobe Airport to Sanda in Hyogo Prefecture, Awaji Island, and Tokushima.
High-Speed Boat (Bay Shuttle)
The Bay Shuttle provides direct access to Kansai International Airport (KIX) in about 30 minutes. With no transfers needed, it is extremely convenient for international flight connections. The fare is 1,880 yen.
Taxi/Rental Car
Taxis are ideal for travelers who want a private ride or have lots of luggage. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes from Kobe Airport to central Sannomiya, with fares typically ranging from 3,000 to 4,000 yen.
Rental car counters are available on the first floor arrival lobby of Terminal 1. Renting a car from Kobe Airport is a great option for exploring the Kansai region by road.
Rental Car Counters at Kobe Airport
Toyota Rent a Car, ORIX Rent a Car, F Rent a Car, Nissan Rent a Car, Nippon Rent-A-Car, Sky Rent-a-Car/J-NET Rent-a-Car, Times Car
What Can You Buy at Kobe Airport? Recommended Souvenirs
When it comes to souvenirs, it is always nice to bring back something unique to the place you visited. Here are some recommended souvenirs you can buy at Kobe Airport and where to find them.
Famous Sweets and Local Specialties Unique to Kobe, the City of Sweets
Kobe is known nationwide as the "City of Sweets," particularly famous for its Western-style confectioneries. "Kobe Pudding," "Gaufres" from Kobe Fugetsudo, and "Denmark Cheesecake" from Kannonya are must-try items. Besides sweets, products related to Kobe Beef, Kobe Wine, and Japanese sake from Nada are also popular.
Duty-Free Shopping Expands with the Launch of International Flights
With the launch of international charter flights in spring 2025, Kobe Airport opened a brand new duty-free shop. Here, travelers can purchase Kobe’s famous sweets, Japanese sake, cosmetics, tobacco, and more. It is a great opportunity to pick up souvenirs or commemorative gifts at a good price, so be sure to stop by before your flight.
Where to Buy Souvenirs at Kobe Airport?
Kobe Airport has two terminal buildings: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Each terminal features its own shops.
Terminal 1 Building
Directly connected to the Port Liner. This is the main terminal for domestic flights.
Konditorei Kobe
A Western-style confectionery brand shop, famous for "Kobe Vanilla Fromage" and "Kobe White Cheese Roll."
- Location: Terminal 1 Building, 2F (Departure Lobby)
- Business hours: 6:15 - 20:45
KOBE TABINIKKI
Convenient for purchasing souvenirs from Kobe and Hyogo Prefecture.
- Location: Terminal 1 Building, 2F (Departure Lobby)
- Business hours: 6:15 - 20:45
KANSAI TABINIKKI
Offers souvenirs from other Kansai areas such as Osaka and Kyoto.
- Location: Terminal 1 Building, 2F (Departure Lobby)
- Business hours: 6:15 - 20:45
KOBE TABINIKKI Domestic Gate Store
In addition to Kobe and Hyogo Prefecture souvenirs, you can also purchase bento boxes for in-flight meals.
- Location: Terminal 1 Building, 2F (Inside Boarding Gate)
- Business hours: 6:15 - Until boarding begins for the last departure
Terminal 2 Building
It is a terminal building that opened in the spring of 2025 with the launch of international flights.
Duty Free BdeB
Sells Kobe sweets, Japanese sake, and other souvenirs, as well as cosmetics and tobacco products.
- Location: Terminal 2 Building, 1F (Inside Boarding Gate)
- Business hours: 8:00 - 18:30
Can Also Enjoy Before and After Your Flight! Other Highlights of Kobe Airport
There is plenty to enjoy at Kobe Airport even before and after your flight. Most restaurants are open from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM, with a few exceptions (*). Whether you’re departing or arriving, you can easily grab a bite or relax. Here are some must-see spots inside the airport.
*Royal Host opens from 6:15 AM
Food Court "Kobe Soramogu"
This food court newly opened on the 3rd floor of Terminal 1 Building in April 2025. It features "Hyoutan Kobe Airport Store," a famous Kobe gyoza restaurant known for its miso sauce, and a food truck from "Awajiya no Omoutsubo," famous for its bento boxes in octopus pot-shaped ceramics. You can now enjoy Kobe gourmet even at the airport.
- Location: Terminal 1 Building, 3F
- Business hours: 6:30 - 21:00
Kobe-founded Cafe "Ueshima Coffee Shop Kobe Airport Store"
Did you know that UCC, famous for canned coffee, was founded in Kobe as "Ueshima Tadao Shoten"? This "Ueshima Coffee" draws from those roots. Enjoying their signature "Milk Coffee" while leisurely waiting for your flight is a blissful moment.
- Location: Terminal 1 Building, 3F
- Business hours: 6:30 - 21:00 (L.O. 20:30)
MINIATURE LIFE × KOBE AIRPORT
This is a permanent museum by Tatsuya Tanaka, a miniature photographer and artist. It displays unique works inspired by Kobe, airplanes, and airports.
- Location: Terminal 1 Building, Rooftop Deck
- Business hours: [Weekdays] 10:00 - 19:00 [Weekends and Holidays] 9:00 - 20:00
Giant Broccoli Object
A giant broccoli object on the rooftop observation deck of Terminal 1 Building. You might wonder, "Why broccoli?!" This is an enlarged version of one of Tatsuya Tanaka's representative works. It's a unique photo spot at Kobe Airport.
- Location: Terminal 1 Building, Rooftop Deck
- Business hours: 6:30 - 22:00
Kids Area
There are kids' areas on the 2nd floor departure lobby of Terminal 1 Building and inside the boarding gate on the 1st floor of Terminal 2 Building. Playing a lot before boarding might help children sleep well on the plane.
Other Events
Kobe Airport regularly hosts fun events such as airport tours, events by various airlines, and food truck markets. If you're lucky, you might even meet "Sorayan," the official mascot of the three Kansai airports!
Want to Relax Before Your Flight? Kobe Airport Lounge Information
Currently, Kobe Airport has only one lounge, "Lounge Kobe," located inside the boarding gate on the 2nd floor of Terminal 1 Building.
Usage Conditions and Fees
Anyone with a boarding pass can access the lounge for 1,050 yen. If you present a gold or higher status credit card from a partner company, entry is free.
Available Services
Enjoy free coffee, tea, and various soft drinks. Newspapers and magazines are also available, making it a comfortable space to relax until your departure.
- Location: Terminal 1 Building, 2F (Inside Boarding Gate)
- Business hours: 6:15 - 10 minutes before the last flight departure
Is Free Wi-Fi and Currency Exchange Available? Useful Services at Kobe Airport
Terminal 2 Building, which handles international flights, offers services for foreign tourists.
Free Wi-Fi Service
Wireless Wi-Fi is available throughout both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 buildings.
Currency Exchange Machines
Currency exchange machines are available. They handle exchanges from Japanese yen to foreign currencies and vice versa. Located in the departure and arrival lobbies of Terminal 2 Building.
Currencies available for exchange from Japanese yen
U.S. Dollar, South Korean Won, Chinese Yuan, Taiwan Dollar
Currencies available for exchange to Japanese yen
US Dollar, Euro, British Pound, Australian Dollar, Hong Kong Dollar, South Korean Won, Taiwan Dollar, Chinese Yuan, Singapore Dollar, Thai Baht, Indonesian Rupiah, Malaysian Ringgit (subject to change based on stock availability)
Prayer Room
Available 24 hours for anyone, regardless of religion or denomination. A "wudu facility" for cleansing before prayer is also installed.
Recommended Hotels Near Kobe Airport
Hotels near the airport are very convenient for early morning departures or late-night arrivals. Here are some recommended hotels with good access from Kobe Airport and comfortable stays.
Kobe Portopia Hotel
It's an 8-minute taxi ride from Kobe Airport. Using the Port Liner, you can reach the nearest "Shimin Hiroba Station" in about 8 minutes, with a covered walkway for smooth access to the hotel.
Since its opening in 1981, this hotel has been beloved by locals. The rooftop terrace Sora-Fune Kobe, opened in 2022, sits 110 meters above ground and offers a 360-degree panoramic view of Kobe's sea, mountains, and cityscape.
Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel
A 20-minute taxi ride from Kobe Airport. Its exterior design resembles white waves rising from the sea, and its location makes it seem like it's floating on the water. It's one of the rare hotels in Japan where large luxury cruise ships dock right in front.
The guest rooms offer a view of Kobe Port right in front, providing an extraordinary experience!
Kobe Bay Sheraton Hotel & Towers
About 25 minutes by direct limousine bus from Kobe Airport. This hotel combines the worldwide service of the "Sheraton" brand with Japanese hospitality.
A major attraction is the natural hot spring "Kobe Rokko Onsen 'Hamaizumi'" with flowing spring water. As an associate hotel of Universal Studios Japan (USJ), it also has a direct bus, making it recommended for those planning to visit the Osaka area.
Kobe Airport is a Perfect Hub for Traveling Around the Kansai Area!
With the launch of international charter flights, Kobe Airport will increasingly become a prominent tourist hub for Kobe and a gateway for travel in the Kansai area. Please use this complete guide to make the most of Kobe Airport.
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