What to Do with One Day in Kobe
Jun 20, 2019 By Justin Hanus
Meat lovers often plan day trips to Kobe just to try its most famous food: Kobe beef. In fact, there is much more to see and do in the city than eat steak. If you only have one day, you’ll need to plan your time carefully to make sure you’re...[ Click to read more ]
See the Best of Kansai’s Fireworks Displays
Jun 17, 2019 By Justin Hanus
One of the most exciting aspects of Japanese summers is the multitude of dazzling fireworks displays to enjoy. Originally, fireworks (花火, ‘Hanabi’) were thought to help ward off evil spirits, but the tradition is still going strong today among tourists and locals alike as a coveted summer pastime. With hundreds...[ Click to read more ]
Healthy Living Activities in Kobe
May 22, 2019 By Justin Hanus
With the second highest life expectancy in the world at an average of just under 84 years, Japan has a good reputation for healthy living. Expats relocating to Kobe can take advantage of the good quality natural environment, healthy foods and various facilities available in the city to keep themselves...[ Click to read more ]
Great Walks in Kobe for Great Weather!
By Justin Hanus
With nearby mountains and plenty of parks and scenic attractions, Kobe is a pleasant city to explore by foot. Many of its tourist attractions are within walking distance of each other and there are routes further afield for those who want something more exerting. Whether you're after a proper hike...[ Click to read more ]
Best Foreign Restaurants in Kobe
By Justin Hanus
Kobe has plenty to offer foodies who like nothing more than a spot of sampling the culinary delights in a city's best restaurants. As well as having a wide variety of local Japanese eateries, Kobe also has plenty of foreign and international restaurants and cafes for those who want a...[ Click to read more ]
Kobe Matsuri: Where East Meets West for a Weekend in May
Apr 17, 2019 By Justin Hanus
The annual Kobe Festival (Matsuri) is unlike any celebration you are likely to run into in the Kansai region during the year. There are plenty of colorful street festivals in Japan and most are tied to an ancient shrine. The Kobe Matsuri is tethered to the past as well, but...[ Click to read more ]
How to Spend Easter in Kobe
Apr 15, 2019 By Justin Hanus
Easter is not generally celebrated in Japan, but the growing community of western expats in the country means that provisions for the festival have increased in recent years. If you're keen to get into the festive spirit in Kobe, here are a few suggestions on where to go and what...[ Click to read more ]
Best Traditional Japanese Restaurants in Kansai
By Justin Hanus
Japan takes its food very seriously and Japanese cuisine is diverse as well as being among the healthiest in the world. For those in the Kansai region looking to indulge in some traditional Japanese cooking, there is no shortage of options – from sushi to teppanyaki to haute cuisine to...[ Click to read more ]
Good Places to Meet Expats in Kobe
Mar 22, 2019 By Justin Hanus
With around 44,000 foreign nationals living in the city, Kobe has a sizeable expat community that includes many Americans and other English-speaking residents. The city has many international bars, nightspots, and venues where you can go and meet other expats as well as a few clubs, organizations and facilities geared...[ Click to read more ]
Interesting Facts About Kansai
By Justin Hanus
The second most populous region of Japan after Kanto, Kansai has been a historically important part of the country with a rich history and many lasting traditions. The busy cities of Osaka, Kyoto and Kobe have all played a part in shaping Kansai's distinct character, which charms residents and visitors...[ Click to read more ]
