| Kobe is a port city. Since it opened its doors to the rest of the world, it has developed an exotic culture and made its mark as a trend-setter and one of the foremost sightseeing areas in Japan. Kobe and the surrounding area were badly damaged by the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake of 1995, but the City is earnestly endeavoring to transform itself into a more attractive and pleasant place than ever before. Many of the architectures have been designated World Heritage by UNESCO. |