Japanese venue operator One Bright Kobe has unveiled Glion Arena Kobe, a multipurpose indoor arena suitable for conferences, exhibitions, concerts and sporting events in the Kansai port city of Kobe.
Located in the revitalised waterfront area, Glion Arena Kobe can accommodate up to 10,000 people, with spaces featuring a high degree of adaptability for various event formats and a state-of-the-art AV system that includes one of Japan’s largest indoor high-definition LED screens.
Describing the arena as “a major addition to the city’s MICE infrastructure”, Lance Ferguson, assistant manager at Kobe Convention Bureau, told TTGmice that the facility’s scale, modern amenities and flexible layout will enable the city “to attract a broader spectrum of business events, from product launches to innovation expos and high-profile corporate gatherings”.
Ferguson also anticipates potential in emerging event formats, noting that the arena “could become a highly attractive venue for international esports events”.
“The infrastructure is well-suited to large audiences and technology-driven productions, aligning well with Kobe’s growing appeal among younger, global audiences,” he explained.
Additionally, product launches and corporate events could host 2,000 to 5,000 pax, while stage events and esports tournaments could accommodate 5,000 to 7,000 pax.
Interest in using the venue for business events is expected to come from within Japan as well as Asia, Europe and North America. The South Korea, China and Taiwan markets are expected to perform particularly well following the launch of international flights connecting Kobe to these countries in April.
“By serving as a core facility for MICE, the Glion Arena aims to elevate Kobe’s recognition as a premier city for international conferences and exhibitions,” Ferguson opined.
