Where to Go Fishing in Kobe

Feb 28, 2022

Where to Go Fishing in Kobe

With fish being such a major part of the Japanese diet, it should be no surprise that there are plenty of opportunities to go fishing around the country. Since Kobe is located on Osaka Bay, it’s a top place to fish. There are several options for fishing, whether you have experience or you’re a complete beginner.

Hiraiso Marine Fishing Park

A favorite spot in Kobe for fishing has to be Hiraiso Fishing Park. People come to fish on the 1,400 meter-long pier with great views of Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. The park is open to everyone — you can rent equipment to use when you arrive and even ask advice from experienced anglers if you’re unsure of what to do. Just make sure to check when fishing is available before you go, as the hours can change with the season.

Hiraiso Marine Fishing Park

Location: 1-1-66 Hiraiso, Tarumi Ward, Kobe 655-0892
Hours: Usually between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Kawachi Tosen

Fishing is often more fun when you’re actually out on the water. At Kawachi Tosen, you can take a boat tour and then see what you’re able to catch. The boats can take up to 40 people, and different fish are numerous according to the month of the year. You can go all year round except in February when the boat tours are closed for the winter. Although you may like to call to inquire about availability, no reservation is required — you can turn up on the day.

Kawachi Tosen

Location: Wada Breakwater Passing Kawachi Ferry Store, 6-6-11 Higashi Kawasaki-Cho, Chuo Ward, Kobe 650-0044
Hours: Between 6:00 a.m. and 8:45 p.m.

WAVYS

As well as fishing, WAVYS offers cruises and other activities on charter boats. You’ll receive a guided tour from a local, in English or Japanese, of the waterfront scenery of Kobe. The boats are the ideal size for a small group, and you’re welcome to drink and listen to music as you fish. There’s guidance available if you have never fished before and opportunities to learn advanced skills for those with more experience. You’ll also receive tips about how to prepare what you catch.

WAVYS

Location: 2-3 Toyo Carmax Imadezaike-Cho Parking Lot, Hyogo Ward, Kobe 652-0853
Hours: Check the calendar to find available dates and times

Fishing Max

You can participate in various fishing events at Fishing Max, including classes, boat tours, fishing for children, and cleaning fishing grounds. You can learn to catch fish using different techniques, including basket, half-beak, and sabiki fishing. Fishing equipment is available at the 11 chain stores around Osaka Bay, including Kobe Harbor.

Fishing Max

Location: 2-3-11 Nishi Demachi, Hyogo Ward, Kobe 652-0822
Hours: Monday to Friday 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

If you’re unable to catch anything yourself, a fishing trip will still lead to an enjoyable day out on the water or by the bay. There are also great restaurants near all the above fishing spots, or you can pick up a fresh catch to take home and prepare yourself.

Aude, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons