Kobe
Design
About the Creative City:
Since pre-modern times, Kobe has been a crossroads for the exchange of goods, cultures and information. In this way, the city has formed its own distinct culture by fusing together diverse elements and traditions from around the world.
The opening of the Kobe port in 1868 led to the development of urban resources which have shaped the city’s image. Additionally, through the process of reconstruction following the Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995, Kobe has learned the importance of strong interpersonal ties and the spirit of mutual aid, values that can be found in the city’s creative sector today.
Following Kobe’s designation as Creative City of Design, the former Raw Silk Testing Centre was renovated and transformed into the “Design and Creative Centre Kobe”, which serves as a hub for creativity and houses projects in line with Kobe’s Creative City programme. Aspiring to be a modern design city focusing on growth and the wellbeing of its citizens, Kobe believes that design has the power to communicate both beauty and empathy. Kobe is committed to using design as a tool to address the challenges facing today’s societies.
Added Value:
As a Creative City of Design, Kobe envisages:
- developing the art and culture festival “Kobe Biennale”, which gathers art from Japan and around the world;
- hosting the creative workshop “Chibikkobe” at the Design and Creative Center (KIITO) that will bring together Kobe’s children and creators; and
- promoting the issue+design project, developed to tackle social problems through creativity and design.
Member since:
2008
Contact:
Design City Promotion Office, City of Kobe
Kobe-design-code@office.city.kobe.lg.jp
Membership Monitoring Reports:
