Kobe Club

History

The club was founded on 1 May 1869 by 27 foreign gentlemen as The English Club, which later became known as the Kobe Club. It moved locations in 1870 and 1879, and the original red-brick clubhouse, completed in 1890, was destroyed in World War II. The club relocated to its current site at the Tor Hotel, with buildings completed in 1955. It also served as temporary shelter for about 200 people after the 1995 Hanshin earthquake. The club celebrated its 150th anniversary on 1 May 2019. More details can be found in the club's history.

Facilities

The club features a bar and lounge overlooking a wooded garden, a restaurant with a sun terrace (Kitano Terrace) that seats approximately 60, a swimming pool and poolside area, a fitness room/gym, a sauna, a library corner, a kids room, a ballroom, and executive dining/conference rooms for meetings and events. More information about the facilities is available here.

Dining

On-site dining includes a restaurant offering French and international seasonal cuisine, specialty desserts crafted by an in-house patissier, original cocktails, and afternoon tea service. The dining facilities also feature terrace seating and a classic members' bar overlooking the garden. For more details on dining options, visit the dining page.

Events and Activities

The club maintains a calendar of events, which includes recurring member events such as Happy Hour (Tuesday to Friday) and New Members' Night (the second Friday of each month). The club hosts regular cultural, social, and sporting events throughout the year. However, it is currently closed for rebuilding and is scheduled to reopen in 2027. Updates can be found on the events calendar.

Special Events

Annual and seasonal special events include the President's Ball, themed dinners, New Members' Night with live music, and family and children's seasonal parties. The club also hosts concerts and exhibitions. More information about these events is available on the activities page.

Networking Opportunities

The club provides various social and cultural events, such as New Members' Night and themed dinners, and maintains an extensive list of reciprocal clubs worldwide. This network allows members to enjoy international visiting privileges and opportunities to connect with diplomatic, academic, and business communities. Further details can be found on the networking opportunities page.

Business Services

Facilities and services for business use include meeting and conference spaces equipped with Wi-Fi, electronic whiteboards, and projectors. The ballroom and AV equipment are available for seminars and corporate events, with customized catering options offered for business functions. More information can be found on the business services page.

Leisure Activities

The club organizes regular activities, including exhibitions, music performances, themed dining events, dance parties, gourmet events, and family-oriented events such as Christmas parties and Easter egg hunts. Additionally, it offers golf tournaments, ski trips, and classes such as yoga, dance, and aikido. For more details, visit the leisure activities page.

Venue Hire

Private functions can be held in the ballroom, Vista Gallery, and Executive/Conference Room, with detailed information on room sizes and capacities available. The club offers customized menus, drink packages, and AV arrangements for various events. Note that the premises are currently under rebuilding until the planned reopening in 2027. More information can be found on the venue hire page.