The Kobe Festival began as a community happening in 1971 and has since evolved into one of the largest street events in Hyogo prefecture, involving hundreds of performers from across the area. Taking place in Kobe’s historic Former Foreign Settlement on May 17, the free-to-enjoy festival is famed for its spectacular parade of marching bands, brass bands and samba dancers.
Besides the dazzling parade, another highlight is the ‘samba street’, where dancers dressed in elaborate costumes, including the Kobe Samba Team, face off in dance battles on Kyomachi-suji avenue. A variety of other performances also take place throughout the day, including jazz, classical Japanese music and children’s cheerleading demonstrations. Enjoy the show with street foods like takoyaki and yakisoba from the many food stalls and trucks for the complete festival experience.