Kobe, Japan is a story of beauty and the beef. Kobe beef is the most tender and flavorful beef in the world. Selling for over $100 per pound, true Kobe beef is not exported outside Japan. Therefore, a trip to Kobe is an opportunity to savor this rare treat. Kobe is one of the most beautiful ports in the world. The Rocco Mountains lie behind Kobe like a peaceful sleeping dragon. In autumn, the mountains explode in a profusion of breathtaking color and in spring delicate pink cherry blossoms decorate the Kobe landscape. Kobe perches on the shores of the Seto Inland Sea. The dramatic red Kobe Port Tower and the sweeping roof of the Maritime Museum dominate Kobe’s skyline. At night, the skyline shimmers like jewels against a black velvet sky.
The Kobe Tower is a natural starting point for exploring the city. Soaring 600 feet into the sky, the tower is shaped like a red Japanese drum. Take the elevator to the five-story observatory at the top for a panoramic view of Kobe. Stroll across Meriken Park to the Kobe Maritime Museum. Exhibits recount the 130-year history of the Port,the recovery process after the great earthquake and future development plans. Sorakuen Garden, a traditional Japanese landscape garden in the center of Kobe, offers a serene respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. During the late 19th century wealthy foreigners lived in the Kobe Kitani District. Many of the grand mansions are now open to the public as museums. The area combines old-time charm with an intriguing mixture of chic boutiques and haute cuisine international restaurants. The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge, spans the Akashi Strait between Kobe and Awaji Island. The Maiko Marine Promenade Observatory under the bridge’s platform offers daring views of the interior of the bridge and the water 50 meters below. Nankinmachi (Chinatown) is unique. Passing through the auspicious gate, aromas of sizzling chicken and pork and gyoza noodle dishes immediately tempt the taste buds. Ironically, most of the people working in Kobe’s Chinatown don’t speak Chinese and most of the businesses are owned by Japanese.
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