Higashinada-ku, Administrative ward in Kobe, Japan
Higashinada-ku is an administrative ward on Kobe's eastern side, stretching along the Seto Inland Sea coast with a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, and industrial areas. The ward includes established urban communities and Rokkō Island, an artificial development combining housing with educational and business facilities.
The ward underwent major reconstruction following the devastating Great Hanshin Earthquake of 1995, which reshaped its infrastructure and communities. This rebuilding period led to modernization of many areas and the development of new projects including Rokkō Island.
The Uozaki and Mikage neighborhoods have long been centers for sake brewing, where distilleries continue age-old techniques that visitors can experience firsthand. This craft tradition shapes daily life and draws people curious about Japanese fermentation culture.
The ward is served by multiple train lines including JR Kobe Line and Hankyu Kobe Line, plus the Hanshin Expressway for connections throughout the region. Visitors should note that terrain varies, with flatter coastal areas and hillier sections inland.
Rokkō Island is a feat of urban planning built from dredged materials and construction waste, showing how modern development creates land from sea. Beyond housing, the island contains a shopping mall and school, making it a self-contained community space.
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