Kobe

Kobe sits between Mount Rokko and Osaka Bay, divided into nine administrative wards connected by a dense network of trains and ferries. The commercial districts stretch from the port to the mountain slopes, with each neighborhood carrying its own character.

The port began operations in 1868, transforming a small fishing village into one of Japan's major maritime centers for foreign trade. The city was struck by a severe earthquake in 1995 and was completely rebuilt afterward.

In the Nada district, several sake breweries open their doors for visitors to watch the fermentation process and taste directly from the barrel. The water from Mount Rokko plays a central role, and many locals prefer buying their rice wine directly from the producer rather than from a supermarket.

An automated transit system called Port Liner connects Sannomiya Station to the harbor facility Port Island and the airport on an elevated track over the water. When moving around the city, you can orient yourself by the mountains to the north, which remain visible from almost every point.

The hot springs in the Arima district contain high concentrations of iron and carbonate, with mineral water drawn from 1,000 meters (3,300 feet) underground. The water has a rust-red color caused by the iron content, which sets it apart from most other thermal baths in Japan.

Location: Hyōgo Prefecture

Inception: April 1, 1889

Capital city: Chūō-ku

Reference: 281000

Part of: Kobe metropolitan area, Keihanshin

Shares border with: Akashi, Miki, Sanda, Takarazuka, Nishinomiya, Ashiya, Inami

Website: https://city.kobe.lg.jp

GPS coordinates: 34.69324,135.19438

Latest update: December 14, 2025 19:59