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Introducing Kōbe
Perched on a hillside overlooking the sea, Kōbe is one of Japan’s most attractive cities. It’s also one of the country’s most cosmopolitan, having served as a maritime gateway to Kansai from the earliest days of trade with China. To this day, there are significant populations of other Asian nationalities in Kōbe, as well as plenty of Westerners, many of whom work in nearby Osaka.
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For many, Kōbe will always be associated with the Great Kōbe Earthquake of 17 January 1995, which levelled whole neighbourhoods and killed more than 6000 people. Fortunately, the city has risen, phoenix-like, from the ashes and is now more vibrant than ever.
One of Kōbe’s best features is its relatively small size – most of the sights can be reached on foot from the main train stations. Of course, it must be noted that none of these sights are must-sees: Kōbe is likely to appeal more to residents than to travellers. However, it does have some good restaurants, cafés and bars and is a good place for a night out in Kansai if you just can’t face the mayhem of Osaka.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
