KOBE: at kobe port

John and I went down to the Kobe port this time, and saw the memorial park that's built after the big earthquake in 95.


The light poles were the original poles that were shaken during the earthquake. The Japanese officials secured these and maintained their positions to remind themselves of the horrific earthquake and also the steps they needed to take to prevent future destructions.


At the time of the earthquake, a large section of the highway bridge collapsed as well.

The port was quite while we were there... just an occassional fish boat coming in. John and I were wondering why not a lot of people come to this part of the port... do people feel sad when they come to this area? Or do they fear what may happen here when an earthquake strikes again?

It was really quiet for a while, and then we heard a dog barking! We then saw an old man walking his dog on the newly built path by the water, and then saw a few business men brought their box lunches to enjoy some quiet lunch time by the water.

All of a sudden I felt the port is tranquil and peaceful, and yet very much hopeful and lively!


See the happy dog?

KOBE: streets in kobe

John and I first started including Kobe in our Kansai trip last year, where we visited the busy Sannomiya and Hommachi areas, the "foreign" areas and the shops, as well as the UCC Coffee Museum and Nanjin machi. (Nanjingding, the "China Town" in Kobe.)

And this year we planned to visit the Kobe port and the areas near the waters. When we arrived at the Sannomiya staion via JR from Osaka, we were greeted by an old gentleman who spoke very good English and instructed us to go down a route to the port. The route down to the port was beautiful.


The "Flower Clock" was decorated to welcome the "Year of the Rat".


and shops and signs from different countries.


as well as traditional shops (this one is a nori/seaweed shop).


This historial shrine is located in the busy streets, among the tall buildings.





We passed the Nanjin machi (China Town) and had to grab some snacks!



Before we arrived by the port, we came across the first American Consulate in Kobe, built in 1868.

We then saw the water... it was beautiful!