Kobe Airport

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the operations of Kobe Airport, it is recommended to contact official channels directly. Below are the primary contact details.

• Official Website: The most complete information on flights, services, and airport regulations can be found on the official website: www.kairport.co.jp.
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries and consultations, you may call: +81 78 304 7777. Please take note of the potential time difference and international call charges.
• Airport Address: 1 Kobekuko, Chuo-ku, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0048, Japan.
• Email: Most airports prefer to process requests via feedback forms on their website for faster and more accurate routing. We recommend using the appropriate section on the official portal.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your belongings were lost on board the aircraft, you should first contact your airline's representative office. Regarding items left within the terminal building, look for the "Lost and Found" (遺失物) section on the airport website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Information counters are located within the airport terminal. Staff are always ready to assist with navigation and answer your questions. You may also use the general information desk phone number.

Getting to Kobe Airport (UKB) from Osaka can be done in several ways, each with its own advantages. Built on an artificial island, this airport is a significant transport hub in the Kansai region, alongside the larger Kansai International Airport (KIX) and Itami Airport (ITM). The choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and priorities.

Public Transport is the most popular and economical method. The main route from Osaka involves two stages:

• First, you need to take a train on one of the lines (JR, Hankyu, or Hanshin) from Osaka-Umeda or Namba stations to Sannomiya station in the city of Kobe. The journey takes 20-30 minutes.
• At Sannomiya station, you must transfer to the automated Port Liner train, which goes directly to the Kobe Airport terminal. This part of the journey will take another 18 minutes approximately.

The total travel time is roughly 40-50 minutes excluding the transfer, and the total cost is about 750-800 yen. Also, comfortable Airport Limousine buses operate from Osaka and other cities in the region, delivering passengers directly to the terminal entrance. The bus journey takes between 40 to 65 minutes depending on traffic and costs around 1000-1200 yen. This is an excellent option for those travelling with bulky luggage.

Taxi and Private Transfer is the most comfortable, but also a significantly more expensive option. A taxi ride from the centre of Osaka to Kobe Airport takes about 40-60 minutes (excluding traffic jams) and costs from 15,000 yen upwards. This method is convenient for those travelling with a large family, small children, or a large amount of luggage. It is recommended to book a transfer in advance to fix the price.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to actively travel around Japan by car, you can rent a vehicle. Offices of all major rental companies are present at the airport. However, it is worth remembering the complex urban traffic, toll roads, and the necessity of having an International Driving Permit. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented car, a convenient multi-level car park is provided, located directly opposite the passenger terminal. Parking fees depend on the duration of the stay.

Kobe Airport (UKB) is distinguished by its compactness and thoughtful organisation, making it very convenient for passengers. All operations, from check-in to baggage claim, are carried out in a single passenger terminal, which exclusively serves domestic flights within Japan.

The terminal structure is intuitive and divided by floors to optimise passenger flows. On the first floor, the Arrivals Zone is located. Here you will find baggage claim belts, information desks, car rental offices, and exits to bus stops and taxi ranks. Navigation upon exiting the arrival hall is simple and clear.

The second floor is entirely dedicated to the Departures Zone. Passengers come here to check in for flights at airline counters. Immediately after is the security screening area, which leads to the secure zone with boarding gates. Most shops, where you can buy souvenirs and travel goods, are also located here.

On the third floor, there is a food court with various restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a meal overlooking the airfield. And for aviation enthusiasts, an open observation deck is equipped on the fourth floor, offering an excellent panoramic view of the runway and Osaka Bay.

Because everything is under one roof, transitions between zones take minimal time, and there is no need to use shuttles. Check-in and screening procedures at Kobe Airport usually proceed quite quickly. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before your flight's departure — this time is generally more than sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing.

The history of Kobe Airport is a vivid example of perseverance and revival. The idea of its construction arose as early as the 1970s, but the project faced resistance from local authorities and residents, especially after the opening of the large Kansai International Airport nearby. Tragic events changed the course of history: the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995 caused immense damage to the economy of Kobe city. It was then that the airport project received new life, becoming a symbol of recovery and future economic growth for the region.

Construction began on a specially created artificial island, and on 16 February 2006, Kobe Airport officially welcomed its first flight. Initially, it was oriented towards domestic flights, serving popular destinations within Japan. Thanks to its convenient location close to Kobe city centre, it quickly gained popularity amongst local residents and business travellers.

A key stage in the airport's recent history was its privatisation in 2018. Management passed to the same company that operates Kansai and Itami airports. This decision united the three main aviation hubs of the region into a single system, allowing for route optimisation, the lifting of certain flight restrictions, and opening new perspectives for Kobe Airport, including servicing international charter and business flights. Today, it is a modern and efficient airport, the history of which is tightly interwoven with the story of the resilience and development of Kobe city.

Kobe Airport (UKB) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is a modern and well-organised terminal where the needs of various categories of travellers have been considered.

Within the airport, you will find diverse restaurants and cafes, where you can grab a quick sandwich and coffee or have a full meal, trying dishes of local and international cuisine. Shops offer a wide assortment of goods: from souvenirs and sweets from the Kansai region to daily necessities and press. For comfortable rest, convenient waiting areas are provided, as well as a paid VIP lounge "Lounge Kobe", where you can relax in a more private setting.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Numerous charging stations for electronic devices are also equipped. Banks and currency exchange bureaus operate in the airport, allowing financial matters to be resolved right upon arrival or before departure. In case of necessity, passengers can contact the medical centre for first aid.

Kobe Airport is well-equipped for travellers with children. There are nursing rooms with changing tables and spaces for feeding. For passengers with reduced mobility, ramps, lifts, specially equipped toilets, and assistance services are provided. Although there are no hotels directly within the terminal building, several hotels are located in immediate proximity on Port Island. For business travellers, workspaces or conference rooms may be available, allowing effective use of time before departure.

Kobe Airport offers passengers an excellent choice of establishments where one can eat deliciously, with special attention paid to the famous local cuisine. Most restaurants and cafes are concentrated in the main terminal before security control (landside), so it is best to plan lunch or dinner before checking in for your flight. Options can be found for every taste and budget: from a quick snack to a leisurely dinner overlooking the runway.

The main gastronomic reason to linger at the airport is the opportunity to try the world-famous `Kobe Beef`. In local restaurants, it is served in various formats: from luxurious steaks to more accessible but no less tasty dishes, such as a beef cutlet sandwich (`gyu-katsu`) or Kobe beef curry. Furthermore, classic Japanese dishes are presented here: aromatic ramen, hearty udon, and fresh sushi. This is a wonderful chance to enjoy the authentic flavours of the Kansai region before departure.

For those in a hurry, ready-made `bento` meals or `onigiri` rice balls, which can be found in shops or specialised kiosks, are the ideal solution. It is quick, convenient, and allows you to experience the variety of Japanese snacks. If you have time, we recommend visiting one of the full-service restaurants. Prices vary from budget-friendly in noodle establishments to mid-range and high in restaurants specialising in Kobe beef. Most establishments operate from early morning until the last evening flight.

In the area after security control (airside), the choice is usually more modest and limited to a few cafes where you can drink coffee with fresh pastries or grab light snacks. Regarding special dietary needs, finding vegetarian dishes is possible — for example, vegetable tempura or salads. However, one should be attentive, as fish extract `dashi` is traditionally added to many sauces and broths. Specialised vegan, Halal, or gluten-free menus are rarely found, so passengers with strict dietary requirements are advised to arrange food in advance.

To ensure your journey through Kobe Airport goes smoothly, make use of these tips. The airport is known for its compactness and efficiency, making it convenient for passengers. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. Although processes here usually proceed quickly, the extra time will allow you to complete all formalities without rushing, drink a coffee, or buy souvenirs.

The check-in and screening process at Kobe Airport, as in most Japanese airports, is distinguished by high organisation. To save time, use the self-service kiosks or check in for your flight online in advance. During security control, be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronic devices, as well as containers with liquids, from your hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on a plane departing from Kobe, it is worth considering that the airport is located on an artificial island. Therefore, if you wish to enjoy breathtaking views of Osaka Bay and the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, choose a window seat. For greater comfort and the ability to stretch your legs, an aisle seat is more suitable.

When preparing hand luggage, remember the general rules: liquids are permitted in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. All sharp and cutting objects must be checked in as luggage. Electronics are generally permitted, but rules may differ depending on the airline, so it is always better to clarify information with your carrier in advance.

If you have a transfer in Kobe, be sure to clarify whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. The airport is quite compact, so navigation will not cause difficulties. To save time and money, study the schedule of public transport connecting the airport with Osaka and other cities — this is often cheaper and faster than a taxi. You can also save money by taking a light snack or an empty water bottle, which can be filled after security screening.

When travelling around Japan, pay attention to the culture of buying souvenirs (omiyage). Kobe Airport is an excellent place to buy regional delicacies, such as the famous cheesecake or matcha sweets. For convenience of movement around the country and paying for small purchases, actively use reloadable transport cards (IC cards), for example, Suica or ICOCA — this will save you a lot of time.

In case of flight delay, remain calm. First, find an information board or check the flight status on the airport or airline website. Contact a representative of your carrier for clarification. Depending on the duration of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation.