Welcome to Kobe, the City of Music!

Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, Kobe—with its mountains, sea, and vibrant port—welcomes the launch of an international music festival full of local charm.

Centered around the prestigious Kobe International Flute Competition, and alongside the 30th anniversary of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, this festival fills the city of Kobe with a vibrant array of music that transcends genres, not limited to the flute alone.

World-renowned artists, rising stars, local Kobe musicians, competition participants, students from local junior high and high schools, and various cultural organizations will all come together for this festival. Highlights include a 500-player flute ensemble and the return of Japan’s largest flute event—the Japan Flute Convention, which brought hope to Kobe in the year of the earthquake. With over 100 performances staged throughout the city, Kobe will be filled with the sounds of music.

From Kobe’s proud concert halls and theaters, to scenic outdoor venues and performances throughout the city—come and enjoy, through music, everything Kobe has to offer this summer.

The Four Core Concepts of the KOBE International Music Festival