Kobe, Hyogo, Japan

The city of Kobe was one of the first settlements of foreigners in Japan, 30 km west of Osaka. Today a large city with 1.6 million population, hosting an important port and various industries and services. In 1995, a huge earthquake (Hanshin earthquake) destroyed many buildings, roads and the port estate. Within a few year all was rebuilt and you wouldn't think of the former damage: a vibrating city with nightlife and chic shopping centres, the old port next to Meriken Park turned into an entertainment area. The modern port was erected on artificial islands in front of the town, connected by railway and roads.
In fall 2024, I contiued my Japanese language studies during three weeks. I visited local attractions and I was enjoying the relaxed and secure life style in this area.

Oriental Hotel Meriken Park by day

Oriental Hotel Meriken Park by night

Kobe by day

Kobe by night

Port Aquarium mantas

Port Aquarium shark

I studied at Lexis Japan and enjoyed the training and learning culture with the class mates very much.

Firemen in front of Lexis building	language certificate from my teacher

Cake and coffee at Königskrone Café	Hotel balcony view on Kobe Port

Ship Nippon Maru at terminal	Sea cruise with Akashi-Kaikyo bridge

Luxury shopping street awaits Xmas	Sannomiya square

Martin on the ropeway to Nunobiki Gardens	view from Nunobiki Gardens

Foreign traders were allowed to settle on the hill above the harbour at Kitano Road starting 1868 with foreigners mixing with local Japanese people.

Kobe Kitano road	Ben's house in Kobe

Kitano English Gentlemen	Kitano English trader house

Kitano English pub	Kitano Mona Lisa

Kobe Kitano French house	Kobe Kitano French white-black

Kitano American butterfly collection	Motomachi Chinese quarter

Links

City of Kobe

Kobe Bay Cruises

Atoa Urban Aquarium

Nunobiki Herb garden

back to Tokyo (2024)

Kioto (2024)

Nara

Osaka (2024)