Sightseeing in Kobe - what to see. Complete travel guide

Kobe is an ancient port city, an international center of trading and a large industrial region. Nowadays on the territory of this city work several factories operating in such areas as chemical and military industries. In many aspects Kobe is an important city that pays a great rope in overall prosperity of the country. The city was founded in the beginning of the 8th century. At that time it was decorated by numerous ancient buildings and historical sights. Due to a disastrous earthquake in 1995 a large part of these buildings were destroyed. The economy of Kobe suffered major loss at that time. Over 5 thousands of people died in that catastrophe. With the help of the local people the city has been rebuilt simply from ruins and now almost nothing reminds of that tragic event.

Art Museum is one of the main sights of Kobe. The museum holds a collection of ancient pictures as well as works of modern masters. Minotaur Tomb is one of few ancient sights that have managed to survive. This is quite an interesting architectural complex that is worth visiting. The largest garden of Kobe is called Sorakoen. Here you can make a walk on shadowy valleys and enjoy magnificent fountains. Suma Temple is located not far away from the park. This is one of the most important religious sights of Kobe.

Shopping lovers should not forget to visit Yamato street. Here you will find numerous trading pavilions devoted to different themes and traditional Japanese restaurants. You can view the panorama of the city and its coastal line from the observation area of the port tower. Each day three thousands of tourists visit this area to enjoy the magnificent look of the port and city’s quarters. Kobe is home to one more international sight – Akashi Kaikyo Bridge. This is the largest pendant bridge in the world that connects Kobe with Awaji Islands. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

One of the most interesting regions of Kobe for walking is the port. Here is located a unique monument of architecture - the Hyperboloid Tower. It was built in 1968 specifically for tourists. The top of this beautiful tower is all set with an observation deck. Its visitors can admire the panorama of the city from a height of 108 meters. Every day, this viewing platform is visited by about 3,000 people.

The Rocco Mountains are very popular among nature lovers. They are relatively low, but very beautiful. At the beginning of the 20th century, equipping of places for country rest began. In the foothill area, many beautiful villas were built. Also, golf courses are located here. In the foothill area, there are several farms where guests are always welcome. Here, you can make many interesting hikes or ride horses.

In Kobe, there is a colorful Chinatown which attracts tourists with a variety of interesting souvenir shops and cheap Chinese restaurants. One of the most unusual parks in the city which adorns 12 statues of animals - symbols of the Chinese calendar, is located here.

In the city and its environs, there are several interesting factories for the production of sake, on which interesting excursions are also conducted. The Hamafukutsuru Ginjo Kobo factory is very interesting. Visitors can stroll through the shops of the factory, try the best varieties of drinks produced here, and buy gift sets of sake for loved ones at a local store.

Fans of historical sites are invited to visit the Sanctuary of Kitano Tenman-Jinja. It was moved to the city in the late 19th century. This temple was built more than 250 years ago. Presently, it is a permanent venue for interesting festivals and religious holidays, in which absolutely everyone can participate.

Kobe is famous for its jewelry shops. In the city, one of the best jewelry in the world is made with pearls. For those who did not expect to buy new jewelry during the holiday, it is worth visiting the Center Tasaki Pearl Plaza. Many tourists visit it like a museum. In this center stylish products from well-known manufacturers are presented. The exhibition center stores unique antique ornaments that were once made for nobles. Some of the presented products can be bought, but only the wealthiest travelers can afford it.