Orientation

The city with the exotic atmosphere when it comes to the historic Kansai international trading port

Area Characteristics

Kobe is the capital of Hyogo Prefecture situated in the south. Since its opening at the end of the 19th century, it has developed into one of Japan’s Top 3 ports. The rich exotic atmosphere found at this international trading port is very popular as one of the preeminent tourist spots in Japan and attracts many travelers to enjoy walks through the city, shopping, dining, and other activities.

 

Popular Spots

Along with the foreign residential quarter of Kitano-cho and Nankin-machi (Kobe’s Chinatown), you can also enjoy refined shopping and dining in the harbor area of Kobe Harborland. In addition, there are other highlights such as Mt. Rokko and Mt. Maya, known for their beautiful night views. Another spot that should be visited is Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park which has a remnant of the Great Hanshin Earthquake that had occurred in 1995.

 

 

Food

Kobe is a treasure house of great food. It’s famous for Kobe beef which has been considered to be one of the top three brands of Japanese Wagyu beef. As well, there are other notable dishes including sobameshi, a typical dish for the working class, Chinese cuisine in Nankin-machi, and the breads and Western-style sweets of a town that has a history of an exotic culture. Kobe pudding which is very popular as a souvenir is another representative dish of the area.

 

 

Transportation

Kobe can be reached in at least 3 hours by Tokaido Shinkansen or Sanyo Shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Shin-Kobe Station. Dubbed “The Compact City”, all of the major tourist spots in the city can be accessed within 30 minutes. JR lines and private trains enclose Kobe and there is a local bus system. The City Loop bus which stops at the famous tourist spots of Kobe is convenient, and there is even a 1-day all-you-can-ride ticket on sale.

 

 

Accommodations

Kobe is one of the nation’s prominent tourist areas so there is a large variety of accommodations centering on hotels providing modern amenities. The Sannomiya district in the center of the city is also convenient in being close to major tourist spots such as Chinatown and the Kitano-cho foreign residents’ quarter. The hotels around Harborland can be enjoyed for their night view of the bay.