Kobe

Kobe is an international port city in the Kansai region, part of Hyogo Prefecture. It is just across the bay from Osaka city and is built along a mountain range which includes the popular Mt. Rokko. Kobe's culture and flair has been strongly influenced by the cultures of the many international merchants and businesspeople who lived here from the late 19th century. Even today, Kobe is famous for its many European-style bakeries, its foreign settlements, churches and its impressive mosque. There is also a good variety of ethnic restaurants, including in Kobe's lively China Town. Not far from Kobe city is one of Kansai's most popular hot spring resorts, Arima Onsen: perfect after a mountain hike.