An architectural vibe that instantly transports you to Europe.
A great old European-style district for a relaxing stroll!
Kobe’s Former Foreign Settlement was designated as a residential area for foreigners after the Meiji Restoration. Today, it still preserves its classic Western architecture and tree-lined grid streets. Lined with international luxury brands, fashion boutiques, and stylish cafes, it’s one of Kobe’s most romantic European-style spots for shopping and walking around. 📍
Former Foreign Settlement of Kobe | Review by Norton Liang
Other Reviews by Norton Liang
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Kamogawa (Kyoto)
Kamogawa has its head in Mt. Sajikigatake, runs through Kyoto north to south, and merges into Katsura River in Toba. Near Shijo, there is downtown such as Gion on the east side and Kawaramachi on the west, the main commercial area representing Kyoto.
Next to Sanjo Ohashi on the Kamogawa, there’s a traditional specialty shop called Naito Shoten that has been operating since 1818.
It has 200 years of history and sells palm scrubbers, brooms, and brushes.
Someone in our group had recommended it before.
I stopped by today to buy a pot brush for my mom.
The owner was super nice.
She even explained things in English.
They also gave me a Gion Festival postcard today.
After shopping, you can grab a coffee at Ogawa Coffee on the corner. -
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Kobe Port Tower
Rising over Kobe Harbor, this port tower is known as the “Beauty of the Iron Tower” for its graceful hyperboloid shape-like an elongated drum-and its vivid red exterior. Loved by locals as a symbol of Kobe since its debut in 1973 (1963), it reopened after Approx. 2.5 years of seismic reinforcement and renovation, with a grand renewal in April 2024.
The theater-style aquarium "AQUARIUM × ART átoa" in Kobe Harbor has an architectural concept that beautifully combines the port city's historical memory with the symbolism of rebirth after the Great Hanshin Earthquake.
Architectural concept: "The Uplift"
The building symbolizes "land rising from the sea." Its rugged, rock-layer-like exterior represents Kobe gathering its strength again after the devastation and destruction of the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake, showing a resilient life force and being "reborn" where the mountains and sea meet.
Coming to Kobe, a city I had overlooked for so long, the harbor moved me far beyond just the Ferris wheel 🎡 and Kobe Port Tower. What touched me even more was the rebirth of this land, its vibrant blue tones, and the powerful impact this building had on me! -
