Kobe Anpanman Children's Museum
A vibrant Anpanman-themed paradise for kids, offering interactive play, lively shows, and themed shopping in Kobe's scenic Harborland.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Kobe Anpanman Children's Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant Anpanman-themed paradise for kids, offering interactive play, lively shows, and themed shopping in Kobe's scenic Harborland.
"It's a play area not a museum. Toilets are clean and there is a water dispenser."
🎯 Arrive Early for Shows
Secure good seats for the Anpanman show by arriving 1-1.5 hours before showtime. :ticket:
👟 Shoes On Indoors
Be aware that shoes are allowed inside, which might be a hygiene concern for some. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Anpanman Show
Theater
An energetic 15-minute show with infectious hosts, dazzling lights, and sound. Even without understanding Japanese, the vibe is captivating.
Interactive Play Areas
Museum Floors
Slides, bouncy balls, and themed play sets offer endless fun for toddlers and young children. It's a true children's paradise.
Themed Shops & Dining
1F Shopping Mall
Explore Anpanman-themed food, drinks, toys, and souvenirs. A barber shop is also available for a unique experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Little Ones
Showtime Strategy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Shows
Secure good seats for the Anpanman show by arriving 1-1.5 hours before showtime. :ticket:
👟 Shoes On Indoors
Be aware that shoes are allowed inside, which might be a hygiene concern for some. :athletic_shoe:
🚶♀️ Exit & Re-enter
You can exit and re-enter, perfect for a lunch break when it gets too crowded. :door:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The entire area, including nearby streets, is decorated with Anpanman themes for great photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Shows
Secure good seats for the Anpanman show by arriving 1-1.5 hours before showtime. :ticket:
👟 Shoes On Indoors
Be aware that shoes are allowed inside, which might be a hygiene concern for some. :athletic_shoe:
🚶♀️ Exit & Re-enter
You can exit and re-enter, perfect for a lunch break when it gets too crowded. :door:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
The entire area, including nearby streets, is decorated with Anpanman themes for great photos.
💰 Consider the Cost
Some visitors find it a bit overpriced for the amount of 'museum' content. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
A delightful, albeit pricey, play area for young children aged 1-6, filled with Anpanman characters and interactive fun. While not a traditional museum, the energetic shows and themed shops are major draws. Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends, and plan ahead for the popular Anpanman show.
"it's nice, fun and cute if you have kids between 1 to 4yo.
we paid for 2 adults 2 kids (same price per pax) but they only checked for adults upon entry for L2. L1 is free entry featuring anpanman themed food & drinks..toys & even a barber!
all shoes allowed inside which i thought wasnt hygienic especially for young kids.
it is a play area not a museum. toilets are clean and there is a water dispenser.
we enjoyed the show the most! we caught the last show at 330pm. people started seating in to get the seats at 1 - 1.5hrs prior! we arrived on time and had to stand at the back. the show was completely in Japanese and we didnt understand a single word but the hosts had infectious energy! the sound and lights complemented the energy!
it was also crowded on L2 which made the experience less enjoyable."
dee tee
"It's more of a play area than a museum. There are slides, big bouncy balls and some sets to play with. I went with my 2 year old daughter and she really enjoyed it. We went at 10:30 on a Saturday and it was very overcrowded so I recommend coming after lunchtime. You can exit and reenter so when it was busy we went out for lunch and came back. The main attraction is a 15 minute show in the theatre. People took seats from an hour before so you will probably have to stand. Good for kids aged 1-6. A bit overpriced though as there isn't a whole lot to see or do in the museum. The mall part is mostly a huge gift shop."
Neil McDonald
"20250324 Streets nearby are decorated with anpanman! Have a bread shop (but everything was sold out in the late afternoon), a shop, a play area (I think), and the meseum itself. Very nice for kids"
Ric W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located in Kobe Harborland. It's easily accessible by public transport. From Sannomiya Station, you can take a bus or walk. It's also near the Umie Mosaic shopping complex. 
Yes, there are parking facilities available at Kobe Harborland, particularly within the Umie Mosaic complex. However, it can get busy, so public transport is often recommended.
The closest stations are JR Kobe Station and Hankyu/Hanshin Railway Motomachi Station. From there, it's a short walk to the museum.
Yes, the Kobe Anpanman Children's Museum is located in the Kobe Harborland area, which also includes the Kobe Port Tower and Umie Mosaic. They are all within walking distance of each other.
Yes, the streets and surrounding areas near the museum are often decorated with Anpanman themes, making the journey there part of the fun.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are the same for adults and children. The 1F shopping mall has free admission, while the 2F museum area requires a ticket. +1
While not always strictly necessary, buying tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons or weekends. Check their official website for the latest information.
The museum typically operates from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry usually at 4:00 PM. The shopping mall also follows similar hours.
The museum is generally stroller-friendly, but it can get crowded, especially on the upper floors. The 1F mall area is spacious.
Yes, re-entry is permitted, which is convenient if you need to take a break or have lunch outside the museum.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
The museum is ideal for children aged 1 to 6 years old. Toddlers and preschoolers will find the most enjoyment in the interactive play areas. +1
The highlight for many is the 15-minute Anpanman show in the theater, known for its energetic hosts and engaging visuals.
Yes, the museum features various play areas with slides, bouncy balls, and themed sets designed for young children's entertainment. +1
The 1F mall is a large gift shop offering Anpanman-themed food, drinks, toys, and merchandise. There's also a unique Anpanman barber shop. +1
Yes, the museum has clean restrooms and changing facilities, which are essential for families with young children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the 1F shopping mall offers Anpanman-themed food and drinks. There's also a bread shop, though items can sell out. +2
While there are dining options, bringing your own snacks or lunch is also a good idea, especially if you plan to take advantage of the re-entry policy.
You can find Anpanman-themed snacks, sweets, and beverages. Some visitors mention a bread shop with character-shaped items.
The museum is part of the larger Kobe Harborland area, which has numerous restaurants and cafes. The 1F mall also has some food stalls.
Yes, there are water dispensers available within the museum facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The museum, the mall, and even the surrounding streets are decorated with Anpanman characters, offering numerous photo opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of other attendees and avoid using flash during the performance to not disrupt the show.
The museum is filled with various Anpanman characters, including Anpanman himself, Baikinman, and Dokin-chan, making it a character lover's dream.
While some visitors have brought pets to the Harborland area, pets are generally not allowed inside the museum itself, except for service animals.
Daytime offers the best natural light for photos inside and outside. The evening can also be charming with the harbor lights, but the museum's interior might be less vibrant.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Consider visiting on a weekday or after lunch to avoid the peak crowds, which can make the experience more comfortable for younger children. The ability to exit and re-enter is also a lifesaver for managing nap times or snack breaks.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
To maximize value, focus on enjoying the free areas and perhaps attending just one Anpanman show if it's a must-do. Bringing your own snacks and drinks can also help manage costs, especially since the themed food can be pricier.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Combine your visit with shots of the nearby Kobe Port Tower and the waterfront for a diverse portfolio. The evening lights of Harborland also offer a different, more romantic photographic perspective.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Anpanman Phenomenon
The Kobe Anpanman Children's Museum & Mall is a testament to this enduring popularity. It's not just a place for kids to play; it's an immersive experience that brings the world of Anpanman to life. From the character designs to the interactive elements, every detail is crafted to delight fans of all ages, fulfilling childhood dreams and creating new memories.
Navigating the Museum Experience
The 2nd floor houses the main museum and play areas, which require an admission ticket. This is where children can engage with interactive exhibits, slides, and bouncy balls. It's important to note that this area is designed as a play space rather than a traditional museum, with shoes being allowed indoors.
One of the most anticipated parts of the visit is the Anpanman show, held in a dedicated theater. Due to its popularity, securing a good viewing spot requires significant advance planning, with visitors often queuing up to 1.5 hours before the show begins. Despite the language barrier, the show's energetic presentation and visual appeal make it a memorable experience for families.
Kobe Harborland: More Than Just Anpanman
+1Harborland itself is known for its scenic waterfront promenade, perfect for leisurely strolls, especially in the evening when the area is beautifully illuminated. Visitors can enjoy a variety of restaurants, cafes, and entertainment options, catering to diverse tastes. The proximity to the sea also provides a refreshing ambiance, making it a pleasant area to explore before or after visiting the Anpanman Museum.
For those traveling with children, the surrounding area offers more than just the Anpanman Museum. The general atmosphere of Harborland is family-friendly, with open spaces and attractions that appeal to a wide age range. It's a well-rounded destination that combines entertainment, shopping, dining, and sightseeing, all within a picturesque setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit