The Highlights of Suma Temple in Kobe

May 25, 2022 By Justin Hanus

A highlight of Kobe (and, in fact, Kansai as a whole) is Suma Temple. Dating back to 886, it is the main temple of the Sumadera branch of the Shingon Buddhists. The great thing about Suma Temple is the grounds, which feature many interesting statues and other highlights. There are...[ Click to read more ]

Great Bike Rides in Kansai

May 24, 2022 By Justin Hanus

Although it may have a reputation for cars, motorbikes, and speedy trains, Japan is also a cycle-loving nation whose residents use a bicycle as their primary mode of transport. You can buy all kinds of bikes, either new or second-hand, and even rent them for short periods. Kansai is a...[ Click to read more ]

Why Peanuts Hotel Is One of the Best Places to Stay in Kobe

Apr 25, 2022 By Justin Hanus

If you plan to stay in Kobe and still searching for the perfect accommodation, look no further. There’s no better option than Peanuts Hotel, especially for Snoopy fans. The hotel is based on the comics by Charles M. Schultz, which are popular with people of all ages in Japan. This...[ Click to read more ]

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Buy Fresh, Eat Healthy, Cook Simple – The Farmers’ Market in Kobe’s Tarumi Fishing Port

Mar 28, 2022 By Justin Hanus

Only about 20% of the land in Japan is suitable for growing crops. Even so, most of the country's population historically survived on subsistence farming. These days only a vanishing few Japanese are farmers, and most of them are only part-time cultivators of the earth. It is, therefore, a much-anticipated...[ Click to read more ]

Great Pubs in Kobe

Mar 24, 2022 By Justin Hanus

Kobe might not be quite as bustling as Osaka or Kyoto, but it has a vibrant evening culture with the centrally-located Sannomiya, in particular, featuring several venues worth visiting for a beverage or two. There is an eclectic vibe about the city, and you can find a range of international...[ Click to read more ]

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Spring Walks in Kobe

Feb 28, 2022 By Justin Hanus

Spring is in the air, the time of year when many people emerge from the warm indoors and put their walking boots on. Kobe is a great place for a stroll or a hike with everything from mountain waterfalls to lush parks to quaint historic towns. There’s something for everyone...[ Click to read more ]

Where to Go Fishing in Kobe

By Justin Hanus

With fish being such a major part of the Japanese diet, it should be no surprise that there are plenty of opportunities to go fishing around the country. Since Kobe is located on Osaka Bay, it’s a top place to fish. There are several options for fishing, whether you have...[ Click to read more ]

Best Sweet Shops in Kobe

Jan 20, 2022 By Justin Hanus

When it comes to food, Kobe isn't just famous for beef. It has also gained a reputation as the "city of sweets," which is excellent news for those with a sweet tooth. You can find many chocolate shops, confectioners, patisseries, and bakeries all across the city, selling both western and...[ Click to read more ]

Winter Sports in Kobe

Dec 27, 2021 By Justin Hanus

Fancy putting on a pair of skis or skates and indulging in a spot of winter sports? With plenty of yearly snow and several mountains, Japan is a good location for winter activities, although it’s maybe not the first place that springs to mind in terms of sports for the...[ Click to read more ]

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Where to Learn About Japanese History in Kansai

By Justin Hanus

Japan is rich in history, with civilizations stretching back to prehistoric times and classical Japanese history beginning around the 6th century when Buddhism was introduced. The Kansai region has played a vital part in Japan’s history. Indeed, Kyoto was for a long time its capital. Whether you want to learn...[ Click to read more ]