1 Daily Life Information and Consultations in Various Languages

These are specialist consultations, so please make an appointment ahead of time if you require an interpreter. (Interpreting available in English and Chinese; please inquire about other languages)

2 Translation & Interpreting

3 Support for Japanese Language and Culture Courses

Purpose of the Program

The Kobe International Community Center (KICC) provides support to foreign residents to make it easier for them to live in Kobe. The KICC is also a place where both Japanese and foreign nationals can interact and learn about each other’s cultures. The main purpose of the program is to provide foreign residents the chance to learn basic level Japanese language and culture, while also promoting mutual understanding between foreign and Japanese residents, through a number of programs taught by Japanese volunteers (language study, calligraphy and flower arrangement).
The KICC is not a Japanese language school. Your Japanese supporter is a volunteer who helps you with your learning.

Courses

You can choose one of the following courses: Japanese Language, Calligraphy or Flower Arrangement.

4 Events

Kobe International Fair

The annual Kobe International Fair (held every year in March) aims to (i) make citizens aware of, and encourage them to participate in, the activities of international cooperation and communication organizations (primarily in Kobe) that strive to contribute to the internationalization of Kobe; (ii) facilitate collaboration and communication among organizations; and (iii) help citizens learn more about different cultures and traditions.

Kobe Community Forum

This event aims to enable people with different views and backgrounds to exchange opinions in order to strengthen the ties between them and their communities, and deepen the understanding of what it means to live in a multicultural environment among all citizens of Kobe, including foreign nationals. It has been held since 2017.

Other Services

Book borrowing

Japanese textbooks and learning materials can be borrowed.

International exchange bulletin board

Please feel free to use the bulletin board provided in the Center for sharing information on nonprofit language exchange programs between Japanese and foreign residents, volunteer activities, and freecycling (items to give away and items wanted for free).

KOBE Free Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi service is available inside the Center.

• KOBE Free Wi-Fi (About using this free public Wi-Fi service)

Meeting rooms (fees apply)

Meeting rooms are available for nonprofit international exchange organizations registered with the KICC, and whose aim is to promote international exchange amongst the citizens of Kobe.
Applications for conference rooms will begin on the 10th of the month two months before you wish to use the service (or the next business day on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays).
Example: If you wish to use the conference room on September 20th → Apply on July 10th.