Despite being one of Japan's major ports, Kobe didn't gain much international recognition until the Hanshin earthquake in 1994 devastated the city. Obviously no earthquake is a good earthquake, unless of course its one that sinks California, and despite the fact that the Hanshin earthquake toppled a large percentage of Kobe's buildings and homes, the rebuilding of the city has given it a fresh, new look that makes it one of the most beautiful cities in Japan. By the time I visited in early 1998, four years after the great quake, the city was already almost back in full swing, with cranes all around town finishing up any areas not fully rebuilt yet.

My visit was unfortunately brief, as I stayed only one night on my way to Tokyo. I did go to the Kobe Tower located right next to the bay, and from the top I saw just how magnificent this city really is. There are mountains running along the north of the city, and to the south the ocean. Although the city is tightly squeezed between the two, the space has been used very efficiently with much detail given to aesthetic value. Also, in addition to the beauty of the Kobe I saw by day, it is said that Kobe has one of the best three night views in Japan, ranking up there with Hakodate's. My only regret about my stay in Kobe was that it wasn't longer.

The few pictures I managed to squeeze in during my brief stay can be viewed by clicking on the link below: