JapanTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Kobe Anpanman Children’s Museum

1. How do most visitors get to the Anpanman Children’s Museum in Kobe?

2. What are the operating hours of the museum?
3. Are there any special exhibits or events currently taking place at the museum?
4. Can visitors purchase tickets in advance online?
5. Is there a gift shop inside the museum?
6. Are outside snacks or food allowed inside the museum?
7. Are strollers allowed inside the museum?
8. Is photography allowed inside the museum?
9. Are there any age restrictions for certain exhibits or activities within the museum?
10. Is there a designated parking area for visitors? If so, is there a fee?

2. Is there parking available near the museum for those driving their own vehicles?


Yes, there are multiple parking lots and garages available near the museum for visitors with their own vehicles. Some options include:

– The Smithsonian parking lot on Jefferson Drive SW
– The National Mall Parking on Madison Drive NW
– Union Station Parking Garage on Columbus Circle NE
– U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory parking lot on Maryland Ave SW

Please note that these lots may fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons, so it is recommended to arrive early or consider alternative modes of transportation if possible.

3. Are there public transportation options available near the museum?


Yes, there are several public transportation options available near the museum, including bus routes and subway stations. The nearest subway station is the Museum of Fine Arts stop on the Green Line. There are also several bus routes that have stops near the museum, such as the 8, 19, 47, and CT2. Additionally, there are bike share stations located nearby for those who prefer to bike to the museum.

4. Can you walk to the museum from popular attractions or hotels in Kobe?


Yes, it is possible to walk to the museum from some popular attractions and hotels in Kobe, depending on their location. Some examples include:

– Meriken Park: The modern art museum is located within walking distance from Meriken Park, which is a popular waterfront area with various sculptures, ships, and other attractions.
– Motomachi Shopping Street: It takes about 10 minutes to walk from Motomachi Shopping Street, a bustling shopping district in Kobe, to the museum.
– Sannomiya Station or JR Kobe Station: Both stations are about a 20-minute walk from the museum.

As for hotels, there are several options that are within walking distance to the museum. Some examples include ANA Crowne Plaza Kobe and Hotel Monterey Kobe, which are both located within a 15-minute walk from the museum. We recommend checking the specific location of your hotel and using a map app or website to determine if it is within walking distance to the museum.

5. What is the closest train station to the Anpanman Children’s Museum?


The closest train station to the Anpanman Children’s Museum is Tachikawa Station, which is about a 15-minute walk away.

6. Are there taxi services readily available around the museum area?


Yes, there are several taxi services available near the museum area. Some popular options include Uber, Lyft, and traditional taxi companies like Yellow Cab or United Taxi. Taxis are also readily available at designated taxi stands throughout the city.

7. Is it necessary to pre-book transportation for a visit to the museum during peak tourist season?


It is not necessary to pre-book transportation for a visit to the museum during peak tourist season, but it may be recommended to avoid long wait times and ensure availability. It is always best to plan and book ahead if possible, especially during busy periods. Additionally, some museums have limited parking or require advanced reservations for specific exhibits or events, so it is advisable to check with the museum beforehand.

8. How long does it take on average to travel from Kobe city center to the Anpanman Children’s Museum using public transportation?


It takes approximately 30 minutes to travel from Kobe city center to the Anpanman Children’s Museum using public transportation.

9. Are there any family-friendly transportation options specifically geared towards young children visiting the museum?


Yes, the museum offers a Mini Train ride for young children to enjoy. The train takes passengers on a scenic tour of the museum grounds and is a fun way for families to explore together. Additionally, the museum also has stroller-friendly pathways and provides stroller rentals for visitors who need them.

10. Are strollers allowed on public transportation in Kobe?

Yes, strollers are typically allowed on public transportation in Kobe. However, it is polite to fold your stroller when boarding a bus or train to make more space for other passengers. Additionally, there may be designated areas for strollers on trains and buses, so it is best to check with the transportation company beforehand.

11. What are some alternative modes of transportation besides trains and taxis that can be used to reach the museum?

Some alternative modes of transportation to reach the museum besides trains and taxis include:

1. Buses: Many cities have public bus systems that have routes passing by or near the museum. This can be a more affordable option for getting to the museum.

2. Ride-sharing apps: Services like Uber and Lyft are popular options for getting around and can be used to reach the museum.

3. Walking or biking: If you are staying nearby, walking or biking to the museum can be a great way to get some exercise and also save money on transportation.

4. Water buses/ferries: In some cities, there may be water buses or ferries that can take you to the museum if it is located near a body of water.

5. Car rental/shuttle services: If you are staying further away from the museum, you could consider renting a car or using a shuttle service specifically designed for tourists to reach your destination.

6. Trolley tours: Some cities offer hop-on-hop-off trolley tours that make stops at popular tourist destinations, including museums. This can be a fun and convenient way to get around and also learn more about the city’s history and landmarks.

7. Electric scooters/mopeds: In many cities, electric scooters or mopeds are available for rent on-demand through apps like Lime or Bird. These can offer a quick and cost-effective way to travel short distances.

8. Segway tours: Similar to trolley tours, many cities offer guided segway tours that may include stops at museums along the route.

9. Trams/cable cars: In some cities, trams or cable cars may be a unique mode of transportation to reach the museum, especially if it is located in a hilly area.

10.Coaches/Charter buses: For larger groups, chartering a coach or taking a chartered bus tour could be an option for reaching the museum together.

11.Helicopter/airplane rides: If you’re feeling adventurous and have the budget for it, you could consider taking a scenic helicopter or airplane ride to the museum. This can offer stunning views of the city and its landmarks.

12. Can you bring a bicycle or use bike-sharing services around the area of the Anpanman Children’s Museum?


Yes, you can bring your own bicycle to the Anpanman Children’s Museum and there are also bike-sharing services available for use in the surrounding area. There are several bike-sharing companies operating in the area, such as Mobike and Ofo. You can easily rent a bike through their mobile apps and ride around the neighborhood to explore other attractions or simply enjoy a leisurely ride. Just make sure to park the bike in designated areas when you’re done using it.

13. Is it possible to rent a car and drive oneself from Kobe city center to the museum?


Yes, it is possible to rent a car and drive from Kobe city center to the museum. There are multiple car rental companies in Kobe that offer services for short-term or long-term rentals. Drivers must have a valid international driver’s license and follow all traffic laws and regulations while driving in Japan. It is recommended to research the route beforehand and have a GPS or map to navigate properly. Parking may also be limited at the museum, so it is important to plan ahead.

14. Are there any scenic routes or landmarks around Kobe that can be explored while traveling to or from the Anpanman Children’s Museum?


– Mt. Maya, a scenic mountain known for its views and hiking trails
– Nunobiki Falls and Nunobiki Herb Garden, a series of waterfalls surrounded by beautiful gardens
– Kobe Port Tower and Meriken Park, two popular landmarks with views of the harbor
– Kitano District, a charming neighborhood with historical Western-style houses
– Sorakuen Garden, a traditional Japanese garden with ponds and seasonal flowers
– Rokko Garden Terrace, an observation deck with panoramic views of the city
– Hakutsuru Sake Brewery Museum, offering tours and tastings of traditional sake production
– Nankin-machi (Chinatown), filled with shops and restaurants serving Chinese cuisine
– Maiko Marine Promenade, a walking path offering views of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge

15. Are there any special shuttle services that run directly between different area attractions and stops at the children’s museum as well?


Yes, some shuttle services offer routes that specifically include stops at different area attractions and the children’s museum. You can inquire with individual shuttle companies to see if they offer this type of service. Alternatively, you may also be able to book a private shuttle or taxi to take you directly from one attraction to the children’s museum.

16. Are there any boat tours available that offer views of both Kobe city and access to the Anpanman Children’s Museum with additional sightseeing opportunities?

1. Kobe Sky Cruise: This boat tour offers a one-hour cruise around Kobe Bay, providing stunning views of the city skyline and the iconic Kobe Port Tower. The tour also includes a stop at the Anpanman Children’s Museum with enough time for visitors to explore and play.

2. Kobe Harborland Walking Tour & Boat Ride: This tour starts with a walking tour of the bustling Harborland area, followed by a relaxing 20-minute boat ride along Kobe’s waterfront. The boat passes by popular sights such as Meriken Park and offers fantastic views of the city. After the boat ride, the tour concludes with a visit to the Anpanman Children’s Museum.

3. Anpanman Boat Adventure in Kobe: This unique boat tour is perfect for families with young children who are fans of Anpanman. The 40-minute ride takes visitors on an adventure-filled journey through Kobe Bay while enjoying panoramic views of the city. The tour also stops at Port Island Marine Science Center and offers access to the Anpanman Children’s Museum.

4. Kanrantei View Boat across Osaka Bay (Kobe): This half-day excursion takes visitors on a scenic boat ride across Osaka Bay, offering breathtaking views of both Osaka and Kobe cities from the water. The tour then heads to Takarazuka city where visitors can enjoy sightseeing and shopping opportunities before returning back to Kobe.

5. Yamate-Takumikai Memorial House & Kobe City View Bus Tour: This combination tour starts with a bus ride through some of Kobe’s top attractions, including Kitano-cho and Nankinmachi (Chinatown). It then stops at Yamate-Takumikai Memorial House where visitors can learn about local history and culture before taking a guided walk through Motomachi shopping street to board a boat that offers stunning views of both cities from the harbor.

NOTE: Due to COVID restrictions, some tours may not be available or may have limited operations. It is recommended to check with the tour operator for updated information before booking.

17.Is it easy for non-Japanese speaking visitors to navigate through public transportation routes leading up to and departing from this attraction?


It may depend on the specific location and routes, but overall, public transportation in Japan is generally easy to navigate for non-Japanese speakers. Many train stations and bus stops have clear signs and announcements in English, and there are also helpful apps and websites available for route planning. However, if you are unsure or need assistance, it is always recommended to ask station staff or fellow travelers for help.

18.How often do buses and trains arrive at designated stops near or far from this children’s attraction, should one choose not to walk?


The frequency of buses and trains arriving at designated stops near or far from the children’s attraction would depend on the specific location and transportation schedule. It is best to check with the local public transportation authority or use a transportation app to determine the exact arrival times.

19.Are tickets available inside each mode of transportation, or is it better to purchase fares beforehand?


It is recommended to purchase fares beforehand, especially for popular routes or during peak travel times. Some modes of transportation may offer ticket sales at the station or onboard, but it is best to check with the specific provider beforehand to ensure availability and avoid any potential delays or hassles.

20.Are there any notable transportation and navigation apps or websites that are helpful for finding one’s way to and from the Anpanman Children’s Museum in Kobe?


Some notable transportation and navigation apps and websites that may be helpful for finding one’s way to and from the Anpanman Children’s Museum in Kobe include:

1. Google Maps: This is a popular app and website for finding directions, transit routes, and estimated travel times. It also provides real-time traffic updates.

2. NAVITIME Transit: This app offers detailed travel information for public transportation options in Japan, including train schedules, fare prices, station maps, and walking directions.

3. Hyperdia: This website is a useful resource for planning train travel in Japan, with details on schedules, routes, fares, and changes.

4. Japan Connected-free Wi-Fi: This app helps visitors find free Wi-Fi hotspots in major cities in Japan, including Kobe.

5. Jorudan: Another popular app for navigating public transportation in Japan, with features such as voice navigation and real-time train location data.

6. Kansai International Airport (KIX) Transport Guide: If arriving by air at Kansai International Airport, this app can help travelers plan their journey to the Anpanman Children’s Museum from the airport via various modes of transportation.

7. Uber or other ride-hailing apps: These may also be useful for finding a ride to the museum if public transportation options are limited or unavailable.