Celebrating Creativity at the 10th Anniversary of Japan Brickfest in Kobe – Blacklug @ Japan Brickfest 2025
Celebrating Creativity at the 10th Anniversary of Japan Brickfest in Kobe
This year, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the 10th Anniversary of Japan Brickfest, hosted in the vibrant city of Kobe, Japan.
And let me tell you—wow, what an experience!
Discovering Kobe
Before diving into the bricks, let’s talk about Kobe itself. Tucked between the Rokko Mountains and Osaka Bay, Kobe is one of Japan’s most beautiful and welcoming port cities. It’s known worldwide for its melt-in-your-mouth Kobe beef, but there’s so much more to experience here.
In the mornings, you can stroll along the Harborland waterfront, where modern architecture meets the sea. For a bit of history, the Kitano district offers a glimpse of Kobe’s international past with its Western-style houses. And if you’re looking for a little peace, a short trip up to Mount Rokko rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and bay—especially magical at night when the lights sparkle below.
It’s this blend of culture, history, and modern flair that makes Kobe the perfect backdrop for an event as creative as Brickfest.
The Magic of Brickfest
The 10th Anniversary Japan Brickfest was truly a sight to behold for any LEGO® enthusiast. Builders from all over the world came together—Japan, China, Indonesia, the UK, the US, New Zealand, and many more—to showcase their incredible creations.
Walking through the exhibition halls felt like stepping into a different universe with every corner. One moment you’re admiring a bustling cityscape, the next you’re in awe of a towering mech or a whimsical fantasy scene. The craftsmanship and creativity were on another level—there were countless times I found myself thinking, how did they even build this?!
A Personal Highlight
One of the most surreal moments for me was being interviewed for the official Brickfest magazine. The article featured not only my personal story but also the mission behind BlackLUG and a selection of my own builds. Flipping through the pages and seeing myself featured alongside so many talented builders was humbling and exciting all at once. It’s something I’ll always treasure.
Why You Should Go
What makes Japan Brickfest so special isn’t just the bricks—it’s the people. The warmth of the builders, the enthusiasm of the visitors, and the shared passion across cultures make this event one of a kind.
If you’re planning a trip, here are a few travel tips:
- Timing: Brickfest usually takes place in early summer—perfect weather for exploring Kobe before or after the event.
- Location: The festival is hosted at KIITO Hall in Kobe, which is easy to reach via train from Osaka or Kyoto (both under an hour away).
- Make it a trip: Pair your Brickfest visit with some Kobe highlights—grab a Kobe beef dinner, soak in an Arima Onsen hot spring, or take a short ferry ride in the harbor.
Final Thoughts
Japan Brickfest is more than a LEGO® event—it’s a celebration of creativity, culture, and community, all set in a city that’s equally inspiring. If you’re a LEGO® fan (or even just looking for a unique travel experience in Japan), I can’t recommend it enough.
I’ve included some photos in the gallery below to give you a taste, but honestly, nothing compares to being there in person.
