The 1996 Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship was the 102nd staging of the Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship since its establishment by the Kilkenny County Board in 1887. The championship began on 10 August 1996 and ended on 20 October 1996.
Glenmore were the defending champions but were defeated by Young Irelands in the first round.
On 20 October 1996, Young Irelands won the title after a 3âÂÂ09 to 2âÂÂ10 defeat of James Stephens in a final replay at Nowlan Park. It was their first ever championship title.
D. J. Carey from the Young Irelands club was the championship's top scorer with 5-35.
Promoted from the Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling Championship
Relegated to the Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling Championship
1st - DJ Carey Young Irelands 5-25 : 5 games
2nd - Richie Minogue James Stephens 1-29 : 5 games
3rd - PJ Cody John Lockes 0-25 : 4 games
4th - Niall Moloney St. Martins 3-08 : 2 games
5th - Brian Leahy James Stephens 3-08 : 5 games