If you mention Japan, many people’s first thoughts may be the most famous cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Although these are all great places to visit with their own unique charms, there are many other great cities in this country that are well worth a visit. Kobe is an underrated city, great for…

Kobe, the sixth largest city in Japan, is a beautiful and popular spot within easy reaching distance of both Kyoto and Osaka, making it an ideal area to visit. It is well-known for its scenic mountains which frame the harbour and its marbled Kobe beef, as well as one of the oldest Shinto shrines in…

While it is true that Kobe is synonymous with Kobe beef, the 6th largest city of Japan has much more to offer. Kobe Harborland is one such gem of Kobe City that has unparalleled shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Located between JR Kobe Station and the city’s port area, it is an idyllic spot to…

When people hear the name Kobe, the first thing that usually comes to mind is Kobe beef. And when I searched on the Internet, some sites told me that for Westerners, Kobe is not an attractive place to visit because one of the main tourist spots is an area full of Western-style buildings. However, Kobe…

Okay, so you’re done seeing the magnificent cherry blossoms during the spring season in Japan. (Or maybe you have missed your chance to see it.) You are now wondering what to do and where to go to enjoy your short spring trip in the country. If you are in the Kansai area, there are lots…

Most people who visit the Kansai region go to Osaka for the food and shopping, or to Kyoto and Nara for the temples and traditional culture. However, roughly an hour and a half away from these prefectures, you can actually visit a paradise with a panoramic view of Osaka Bay, natural scenery, and excellent hot…

Kobe is a great multicultural city in proximity to other megacities such as Osaka that needs to be covered when you are in the Kansai region. It has many fantastic places to visit, including castles, temples, modern buildings, parks, and whatnot. However, if you are looking for a relaxing day watching animals, these are the…

Imagine a place with a picturesque mountain view on one side and a stunning sea view on the other. Add to the image mouth watering food, ice cold beer, and a relaxing hot spring resort. Package these thoughts with a good dose of serenity and you get the city of Kobe. With so much to…

Most people, regardless of age, love LEGO. This is probably because every person has a builder instinct in them – even young children can put together an easy model. LEGO has established a huge fan base around the world and this 2017, it will be holding another Japan Brickfest (ジャパン ブリックフェスト). Japan Brickfest is Asia’s…

Sake (酒) is one of Japan’s most well-known products, and it is famous throughout the world. Understandably, many visitors to Japan are eager to try Japanese rice wine for themselves. However, sometimes it can be hard to know where to begin; I came to Japan knowing nothing about how sake is made or which brands…