Top Hanami Sites Near Kobe
Feb 09, 2020 By Justin Hanus
Spring is just around the corner, which for many Japanese residents means Hanami time is here again. Hanami means “flower viewing” in Japanese (from the Japanese for flower - “hana”) and, up and down the country, people gather together to spend time with each other and appreciate the beauty of...[ Click to read more ]
The Best Museums in Kobe
Jan 28, 2020 By Justin Hanus
Kobe may only be a small city, but it’s packed with fascinating museums. Many are well known, but there are some that few tourists discover. Kobe City Museum The building alone of the Kobe City Museum is worth seeing. Formerly the Kobe branch of the Yokohama Specie Bank, it was...[ Click to read more ]
8 Most Popular Dessert Shops in Kobe
Jan 23, 2020 By Justin Hanus
Kobe isn’t just famous for their beef; their desserts are also equally popular for tourists and locals alike. After a fantastic meal of beef or seafood, as the port city is also well known for, you’ might lounge and relax in their sweet shops and sample picture-perfect and mouth-watering desserts...[ Click to read more ]
Exercise Activities in Kobe
Jan 21, 2020 By Justin Hanus
With the new year underway, many people will have made resolutions to lose those extra Christmas pounds or embark on a new healthier lifestyle. If you've come into 2020 looking to get into better physical shape, here is a guide on where to find exercise activities in Kobe. Gym sessions...[ Click to read more ]
Great Street Food in Kansai
By Justin Hanus
There are plenty of street food outlets across Kansai for those looking for food-on-the-go. Street food gives you the chance to sample some tasty dishes unique to the region, all at pretty reasonable prices. Here is a selection of top bites to look for. Takoyaki The quintessential Osaka street snack,...[ Click to read more ]
Best International Schools in Kobe
Dec 25, 2019 By Justin Hanus
With a sizeable and culturally diverse expat population, Kobe boasts some of the best international schools in the Kansai region. There is a selection of private schools to choose from, and they remain popular with parents due to the multicultural feel and varied curricula. However, fees can be expensive and...[ Click to read more ]
Hatsumode in Kobe – Shrines to Visit for New Years
Dec 24, 2019 By Justin Hanus
Japan has only been doing New Year’s celebrations since 1873 when the country adopted the Gregorian calendar of the West. Traditionally the Japanese New Year was based on the Chinese lunar calendar, where the dates each year were not fixed. But now the New Year is locked into January 1,...[ Click to read more ]
The Best Izakaya in Kobe
Dec 17, 2019 By Justin Hanus
In Japan, a popular activity after a long day of work is a visit to an izakaya. A type of informal bar, izakaya serves alcoholic drinks and (often quite substantial) food. Patrons continue to order throughout the evening, receiving a bill at the end. Most cities have numerous izakaya and...[ Click to read more ]
Skiing in Kansai: Day and Weekend Trips!
Dec 12, 2019 By Justin Hanus
Skiing might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of tourist attractions in Japan, but the country attracts many enthusiasts each winter keen to experience the powder-dry snow. Kansai has many skiing locations that don't draw in quite as many tourists as regions such as...[ Click to read more ]
The Top Onsen Resorts in and Around Kobe
By Justin Hanus
If you’re stressed out, had a tough week at work, or feel de-motivated, visiting an onsen is the perfect remedy for you. These hot spring baths will help you regain your energy and forget all your stress. In Japan, people have been visiting onsen for hundreds of years to cleanse...[ Click to read more ]
