Kobe: Port City with Culinary Soul

Escalator Etiquette Flip: Kobe follows Osaka rules - stand on the right side of escalators, opposite of Tokyo. Locals will passive-aggressively sigh if you block the left walking lane. Karaoke Birthplace: Kobe invented karaoke in 1971, yet locals rarely mention this - they're too busy actually singing. The first karaoke machine was created here, and there are still over 100,000 venues worldwide because of this port city. Earthquake Rebuilding Pride: After the devastating 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake that killed over 6,400 people, Kobe rebuilt itself completely within a decade. Locals speak of this with quiet pride, and 1995 became known as 'Year One for Volunteering' in Japan. Mountain-Sea Sandwich: Kobe is squeezed between Rokko Mountain and Osaka Bay, creating a unique geography where you can ski in the morning and swim in the afternoon. The city is only 3km wide in places. Beef Confusion: Real Kobe beef is extraordinarily rare - only about 3,000 cattle qualify annually under strict standards. If you're paying less than ¥8,000 for a Kobe beef meal, question what you're eating. Locals know the certified restaurants. International Port Legacy: Japan's first international port opened here in 1868, making Kobe the original gateway for Western culture. This explains why locals eat more bread than any other Japanese city and why you'll find Japan's oldest mosque here.

Hanami Season (Late March-Early April): Cherry blossom viewing in Sorakuen Garden and along the hills of Kitano-cho, where Western-style houses create a unique backdrop. Locals bring elaborate bento boxes and sake, arriving by 7 AM to claim spots. Kobe Matsuri Festival (Third Sunday of May): The city's biggest party since 1971, featuring samba dancers, traditional Japanese dance groups, and 70 parade groups with up to 200 performers each marching down Flower Road. Locals consider this their festival - not for tourists. Nankinmachi Chinese New Year (January/February): Dragon dances, firecrackers, and traditional performances in Kobe's Chinatown. The Chinese community has celebrated here since the 1860s, making it one of Japan's oldest Chinese New Year celebrations. Kobe Luminarie (Late January-Early February): Originally held in December, this illumination festival commemorates the 1995 earthquake with over 200,000 hand-painted lights donated by Italy. Locals attend in respectful silence, remembering those lost.

Kobe Matsuri (Third Sunday of May): The city's largest festival with samba competitions, marching bands, and traditional dance on Flower Road. Each of Kobe's nine wards holds celebrations the day before. Free, all-ages, massive crowds. Kobe Luminarie (Late January-Early February): Memorial illumination for the 1995 earthquake with over 200,000 hand-painted Italian lights. The main corridor is free; Meriken Park installations cost ¥500-750 with advance booking. Deeply meaningful to locals. Nankinmachi Spring Festival (Late January/February): Chinese New Year celebrations with dragon dances, lion dances, and firecrackers. The Chinese community has celebrated here since the 1860s. Bon Odori at Meriken Park (Mid-August): Traditional Obon dancing festival where everyone dances in circles to folk songs. The choreography is simple - locals will teach you. Free participation. Nada Sake Festival (October): Sake breweries in the Nada district open for special tastings, tours, and celebrations of the new brewing season. ¥1,000-3,000 for tasting passes depending on breweries. Kobe Rokko Meets Art (Autumn): Art installations throughout Mount Rokko combining nature and contemporary art. Locals hike between pieces - the journey is part of the experience.

Kobe Beef Reality at Mouriya: The original Kobe beef experience since 1885. Mouriya recommends eating with only salt first to appreciate the marbling. Expect ¥8,000-25,000 per person for authentic A5-grade Kobe beef cooked teppanyaki-style in front of you. Reservations essential. For food-focused travelers, Kobe is easily one of the best places to visit for foodies in Asia. Sobameshi at Aomori Restaurant: This Nagata-ku dish was invented in 1957 when a customer asked to mix his leftover rice into yakisoba noodles. Chopped noodles and rice stir-fried in Worcestershire sauce, topped with beef tendon (bokkake). ¥700-1,000 for a filling local meal. Misodare Gyoza at Akaman: Kobe's signature dumplings served with miso dipping sauce instead of soy. Created by a chef who lived in Manchuria and missed Japanese flavors. ¥300 for 7 dumplings - locals order multiple plates with beer. Cash only. Nikuman in Nankinmachi: Steamed pork buns originated in Kobe's Chinatown. Roshoki (since 1915) has the longest queues, but Shikoro across from Motomachi Station serves equally good nikuman without the wait. ¥200-350 per bun. Nada Sake Culture: Japan's largest sake-producing region stretches 3km east of central Kobe. Visit Hakutsuru Brewery Museum for free tastings and education about the local Miyamizu water that makes Nada sake distinctively dry and crisp. Bread Obsession: Kobe consumes more bread per capita than any Japanese city. Isuzu Bakery (since 1946) and Freundlieb (in a converted church) represent the port city's Western baking tradition. Morning sets at kissaten include thick toast, egg, and coffee for ¥500-800.

Cosmopolitan Identity: Kobe residents consider themselves more worldly than other Japanese, having absorbed Western customs since 1868. They're proud of their city's international heritage and slightly dismissive of Tokyo's later modernization. Earthquake Resilience: The 1995 earthquake fundamentally shaped Kobe's community spirit. Locals still participate in earthquake drills religiously, and the volunteer culture born from that disaster continues. Newcomers earn respect by acknowledging this history. Food Pride Without Arrogance: While Kobe beef is world-famous, locals will quickly point you to their other specialties - sake from Nada, Western-style bakeries, and Chinese cuisine from Nankinmachi. They find tourists' beef obsession amusing. Relaxed Kansai Style: Kobe combines Osaka's friendliness with Kyoto's refinement but has its own identity - locals describe themselves as 'stylish' (おしゃれ/oshare). They dress better than most Japanese cities and take pride in their European-influenced fashion sense. Mountain Spirituality: Mount Rokko isn't just scenery - locals hike it for mental clarity, visit its shrines, and consider the mountain essential to Kobe's identity. For practical travel information and cultural insights about Japan, the Japan National Tourism Organization offers authoritative guidance. Ikuta Shrine Devotion: This 1,800-year-old shrine dedicated to love and relationships sees locals visit regularly, not just for weddings. Young people pray for romantic success, while families seek blessings for relationships.

Essential Kobe-ben (Kobe Dialect):

• "Nan shitton?" (nahn shee-TOHN) = What are you doing? - Kobe's friendly greeting
• "Omoroi" (oh-moh-ROY) = Interesting/Funny - Kansai version of omoshiroi
• "Meccha" (MEH-chah) = Very/Really - use instead of sugoku
• "Akan" (ah-KAHN) = No good/Don't do that - essential prohibition word
• "Ee yo" (eh-eh yoh) = It's okay/Sure - casual agreement

Daily Essentials:

• "Sumimasen" (soo-mee-mah-SEN) = Excuse me/Sorry - most useful word
• "Oishii" (oh-EE-shee) = Delicious - use liberally when eating
• "Okini" (oh-KEE-nee) = Thanks - Kansai casual thank you
• "Honma?" (HOHN-mah) = Really? - express surprise

Food Terms:

• "Niku" (NEE-koo) = Meat - you'll hear this constantly with beef
• "Osake" (oh-SAH-keh) = Sake/Alcohol
• "Kanpai" (kahn-PAI) = Cheers
• "Okawari" (oh-kah-WAH-ree) = Refill/Another serving

Local Quirks:

• "Naosu" (nah-OH-soo) = Put away (not "repair" as in standard Japanese)
• "Reiko" (RAY-koh) = Iced coffee (Kansai slang)
• "Sarapin" (sah-rah-PEEN) = Brand new

JR Lines:

• ¥420 from Osaka Station to Sannomiya (20 minutes, special rapid)
• ¥1,110 from Kyoto (50 minutes)
• JR Pass valid; Shinkansen stops at Shin-Kobe Station
• Locals prefer JR for longer distances, private railways for local trips

Hankyu/Hanshin Railways:

• Slightly cheaper than JR, connects Kobe with Osaka and Kyoto
• ¥150-200 for short distances within Kobe area
• Hanshin line is closest to Nada sake district breweries
• More frequent stops in local neighborhoods

City Loop Bus:

• Tourist-oriented bus connecting Kitano, Nankinmachi, Harborland with Sannomiya
• ¥300 per ride, ¥800 day pass, ¥1,200 two-day pass
• Convenient but slower than walking for short distances
• Locals rarely use it - they walk or take trains

Port Liner Monorail:

• Connects Kobe Airport with Sannomiya (18 minutes, ¥340)
• Also serves Port Island attractions
• Elevated views of the harbor - worth riding once

Walking Reality:

• Central Kobe (Sannomiya to Harborland) is very walkable - 20 minutes
• Kitano district involves steep hills - comfortable shoes essential
• Locals walk 10,000+ steps daily; expect the same

IC Cards:

• ICOCA, Suica, Pasmo all work on all Kobe transit
• Purchase at any station, essential for convenience
• Also works at konbini and many restaurants

Food & Drinks:

• Authentic Kobe beef dinner: ¥8,000-25,000 per person
• Local lunch (sobameshi, gyoza): ¥700-1,200
• Ramen: ¥800-1,200
• Coffee: ¥300-500 (kissaten morning set with toast: ¥500-800)
• Beer: ¥400-700 (craft beer: ¥800-1,200)
• Sake tasting at breweries: Free-¥500
• Nikuman in Chinatown: ¥200-350

Groceries & Markets:

• Weekly shop for two: ¥6,000-10,000
• Bento box from konbini: ¥400-600
• Local sake bottle: ¥800-3,000
• Fresh bread from bakeries: ¥150-400 per item

Activities & Transport:

• Rokko Cable Car round trip: ¥1,550
• Kitano Ijinkan combination ticket: ¥1,500-3,300
• Earthquake Museum: ¥650
• Arima Onsen public bath: ¥650
• City Loop day pass: ¥800
• Single metro/train ride: ¥150-420

Accommodation:

• Hostel/Guesthouse: ¥2,000-4,000/night
• Business hotel: ¥6,000-12,000/night
• Mid-range hotel: ¥12,000-20,000/night
• Luxury hotel (Okura, Oriental): ¥25,000-50,000+/night
• Arima Onsen ryokan: ¥15,000-50,000/night (includes meals)

Year-Round Basics:

• Kobe has four distinct seasons with Rokko Mountain creating microclimates
• Layers are essential - temperature can shift 10°C between coast and mountain
• Comfortable walking shoes mandatory - hills and cobblestones throughout
• Umbrella always recommended - sudden rain common from the bay

Spring (March-May): 10-22°C:

• Cherry blossom season peaks late March to early April
• Light jacket essential for mornings and evenings
• Locals switch to spring colors - pastels popular
• Mid-May is ideal: pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists than Kyoto

Summer (June-August): 22-35°C:

• June-July is rainy season (tsuyu) - waterproof jacket essential
• August is hot and humid - light cotton, sunscreen, sun hat
• Mount Rokko is 5-7°C cooler - locals escape there on weekends
• Air conditioning is strong indoors; carry a light cardigan

Autumn (September-November): 12-25°C:

• Best weather for exploration - clear skies, comfortable temperatures
• Autumn colors peak late November, especially on Rokko
• Light layers, cardigan or light jacket
• Locals dress stylishly - Kobe takes fashion seriously year-round

Winter (December-February): 3-12°C:

• Mild compared to Tokyo - snow rare in city center
• Warm coat, scarf for evenings and mountain trips
• Rokko Snow Park requires winter gear (rentals available)
• Luminarie season (late January) - dress warmly for evening viewing

Evening Social Scene:

• Sannomiya izakaya district - locals gather after 6 PM for after-work drinks
• Jazz clubs (Sone, Emerald) - live music from 8 PM most nights
• Harborland waterfront - couples and friends walk along the gas-lit streets
• Language exchange meetups - check Meetup.com for Japanese-English events

Sports & Recreation:

• Rokko Mountain hiking - trails from easy walks to serious climbs
• Vissel Kobe matches - family-friendly atmosphere, tickets from ¥2,500
• Beach volleyball at Suma Beach - summer pickup games
• Morning runs along Meriken Park waterfront - locals jog 6-8 AM

Cultural Activities:

• Sake tasting classes at Nada breweries - some offer English programs
• Kobe beef cooking classes - learn teppanyaki technique
• Ikebana (flower arranging) at Sorakuen Garden cultural center
• Traditional craft workshops in Kitano area

Volunteer Opportunities:

• Earthquake memorial activities - especially around January 17
• International community events through Kobe International House
• English conversation partners - local universities seek practice partners
• Beach cleanup events along Kobe's waterfront (monthly, organized via social media)

Million-Dollar Night View from Rokko: Take the Rokko Cable Car (¥1,550 round trip) to Tenrandai Observatory for what locals call the '10 million dollar view' of Kobe, Osaka Bay, and beyond. Best at sunset - arrive by 5 PM, stay until dark. Weekday evenings avoid crowds. Nada Sake Brewery Hopping: Walk between Hakutsuru, Kikumasamune, and Sakuramasamune breweries in the Nada district, sampling 10+ sake varieties. Free tastings at most museums; guided tours from ¥6,500. Hanshin train from Sannomiya takes 10 minutes. Arima Onsen Day Trip: Japan's oldest hot spring town is only 30 minutes from Kobe. Soak in 'Kinsen' (golden water) rich in iron at Kin no Yu public bath for ¥650. The compact mountain town is walkable and atmospheric. Kitano Ijinkan District Morning Walk: Explore Western-style merchant houses from the 1880s before tourists arrive. Start at 8 AM, when morning light illuminates the European architecture. Combination tickets ¥1,500-3,300 for multiple houses. If you're exploring more of Japan, the contrast with Tokyo's local secrets reveals how different Japanese cities can be. Earthquake Museum Experience: The Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution (¥650) includes an earthquake simulator that recreates the 1995 and 2011 quakes. Profoundly moving experience that explains Kobe's resilient spirit. Harborland Sunset Stroll: Walk from Kobe Station along the waterfront past the brick warehouses (Renga Soko) to Meriken Park. Gas lamps light up at dusk. Locals bring konbini drinks and watch the port lights reflect on the water.

Motomachi Shopping Arcade:

• 1.2km covered arcade with 300+ shops, 140+ years of history
• Local specialties: Kobe Fugestsudo confectionery, handmade kintsuba sweets
• Best for: Japanese tea, traditional crafts, antiques, local sweets
• Visit weekday mornings to avoid crowds; closed shops vary by day

Nankinmachi (Chinatown):

• One of Japan's three major Chinatowns, established 1860s
• Street food stalls selling nikuman, gyoza, xiaolongbao, Peking duck wraps
• Best times: 11 AM - 2 PM for lunch crowds, 5-7 PM for dinner atmosphere
• Avoid weekends unless you enjoy queues

Nada Sake District:

• Not a market but brewery shops sell sake directly to consumers
• Hakutsuru, Kikumasamune, Sakuramasamune all have retail sections
• Buy exclusive seasonal sake only available at source
• Prices same or cheaper than department stores

Sannomiya Center Gai:

• Modern covered arcade near Sannomiya Station
• Mix of international chains (Uniqlo) and local boutiques
• Good for fashion, accessories, and casual dining
• More tourist-oriented than Motomachi

Supermarket Tips:

• Life and Kohyo supermarkets popular with locals
• Evening discounts (7-8 PM) on prepared foods marked with yellow stickers
• Basement food halls in Daimaru and Sogo department stores for premium items
• Bring reusable bag - plastic bags cost ¥3-5

Meriken Park Evening:

• Waterfront park where locals bring konbini beers and watch the port lights
• The fish-shaped 'BE KOBE' sign is a photo spot, but beyond it is peaceful
• Best at sunset when Kobe Tower and Maritime Museum reflect on the water
• Weekday evenings are quieter - weekends bring couples and families

Sorakuen Garden Morning:

• Traditional Japanese garden near Motomachi, quiet before 10 AM
• Locals practice tai chi and read newspapers on benches
• Cherry blossoms in spring, autumn colors in November - ¥300 entry
• Avoid weekends when wedding parties take over

Nunobiki Herb Garden Ropeway:

• 10-minute ropeway ride (¥1,800 round trip) to fragrant gardens above the city
• Locals escape summer heat here - 5°C cooler than central Kobe
• Bring a book, find a bench, watch the bay - nobody rushes here
• The 'Wind Hill' area has hammocks with panoramic views

Rokko Cable Car Dawn Hike:

• Serious locals hike Rokko before work - the trails empty by 8 AM
• Philosopher's Path equivalent without the Kyoto crowds
• Bring onigiri from a konbini - eating with a view is the local way
• Cable car starts at 7:10 AM for those who prefer riding up

Nankinmachi Back Streets:

• Behind the main tourist streets, elderly Chinese residents play mahjong
• Small tea shops serve Chinese tea with minimal English
• Sit, observe, and feel the 150+ years of Chinese-Japanese community life

Izakaya (ee-zah-KAH-yah):

• Traditional Japanese pubs serving small plates with drinks
• Kobe izakayas often feature local sake from Nada breweries
• After-work gathering spots - arrive after 6 PM for authentic atmosphere
• Expect shouted greetings ('irasshaimase!') and casual seating

Teppanyaki Restaurants:

• Iron griddle dining invented in post-war Japan, perfected in Kobe
• Watch chefs cook Kobe beef directly in front of you
• Ranges from ¥3,000 casual spots to ¥30,000+ premium experiences
• Counter seating is traditional - request it for the full experience

Kissaten (kee-SAH-ten):

• Old-school coffee shops with dark wood and jazz music
• Kobe has exceptional kissaten culture due to Western port influence
• Morning sets (toast, egg, coffee) for ¥500-800 are a local tradition
• Often cash-only with smoking sections - atmosphere over convenience

Sake Bars (Sakaba):

• Bars specializing in sake, often featuring Nada district breweries
• Staff can guide you through different sake styles and temperatures
• Some offer 'kaku-uchi' - standing drinking in the retail section of shops

Jazz Clubs:

• Kobe is considered Japan's jazz capital
• Sone (since 1969) is the original, with 4 live sets most nights
• Intimate, low-ceilinged venues with serious music appreciation
• Cover charges typically ¥2,000-3,500 including one drink

Escalator Confusion Jokes:

• Kobe follows Osaka's 'stand right, walk left' rule - opposite of Tokyo
• Locals find it hilarious watching Tokyo visitors block the wrong side
• "You can always spot the Tokyoites" is a common observation

Beef Price Skepticism:

• When tourists brag about cheap Kobe beef meals, locals exchange knowing looks
• "Ah, you had 'Kobe beef'" with air quotes is a running joke
• Real Kobe beef is expensive - locals know the certified restaurants

Mountain Weather Complaints:

• Rokko Mountain creates unpredictable weather - 'four seasons in one day'
• Locals bond over carrying unnecessary umbrellas and jackets
• "Rokko-san is angry today" when weather suddenly changes

Earthquake Dark Humor:

• Kobe residents make gentle jokes about earthquake preparedness
• "My evacuation bag is ready" said when late to meetings
• Outsiders find this uncomfortable; locals use humor to process trauma

Port City Snobbery:

• Kobe residents quietly consider themselves more sophisticated than Osaka
• "We were international before it was cool" - referring to 1868 port opening
• This rivalry is friendly but locals take their cosmopolitan identity seriously

Tezuka Osamu (1928-1989):

• 'God of Manga' who created Astro Boy and Kimba the White Lion
• Spent formative years in nearby Takarazuka but influenced Kobe's creative scene
• The Tezuka Osamu Manga Museum is a short trip from Kobe

Kobe Bryant (1978-2020):

• NBA legend named after Kobe by his parents who loved the city's famous beef
• While American, his name connection creates a unique cultural bridge
• Locals are proud of this naming tribute and welcome Bryant fans

Akiyuki Nosaka (1930-2015):

• Author who survived the 1945 Kobe air raids as a child
• His novel 'Grave of the Fireflies' (adapted by Studio Ghibli) is set in wartime Kobe
• The story is deeply personal to older Kobe residents

Mamoru Hosoda:

• Acclaimed anime director (Summer Wars, Wolf Children)
• Born in Kamiichi but associated with Kobe's creative community
• His films capture themes of family and resilience that resonate with Kobe's post-earthquake culture

Vissel Kobe (Football):

• J-League team that previously featured Andres Iniesta and Lukas Podolski
• Home games at Noevir Stadium (30,132 capacity) - tickets from ¥2,500
• Locals are passionate but less intense than Osaka's Cerezo or Gamba fans
• Won the Emperor's Cup in 2019 - still a point of local pride

Kobelco Steelers (Rugby):

• One of Japan's oldest rugby teams (founded 1928) with seven Top League titles
• Share Noevir Stadium with Vissel - rugby culture is strong here
• Ex-All Black players have featured on the roster
• Match atmosphere is family-friendly and welcoming to newcomers

INAC Kobe Leonessa (Women's Football):

• Six-time Nadeshiko League champions, eight-time Empress's Cup winners
• One of Japan's most successful women's teams
• Locals actively support women's sports - matches are well-attended

Mountain Sports Culture:

• Mount Rokko hiking is practically a religion - locals hike weekly
• Trail running, cycling, and paragliding popular on the mountain
• Winter brings skiing at Rokko Snow Park (small but atmospheric)

Sobameshi (Noodle Rice):

• Yakisoba noodles chopped and fried with rice in Worcestershire sauce
• Invented in Nagata-ku when a customer wanted leftover rice mixed in
• Often topped with beef tendon (bokkake) - the brown, gooey texture surprises foreigners
• Locals eat this as comfort food, not cuisine - find it at teppanyaki griddle shops

Gyoza with Miso Sauce:

• Kobe dumplings served with sweet miso dipping sauce instead of standard soy-vinegar
• Created by a chef who lived in Manchuria and missed Japanese flavors
• The combination seems wrong to Tokyo visitors but is standard here

Sake with Breakfast:

• In the Nada district, some locals drink small cups of sake with morning meals
• Brewery workers traditionally started their day this way
• Now more ceremonial than common, but still observed during festivals

Melon Pan Ice Cream Sandwich:

• Sweet bread that tastes like cookie, sliced and filled with vanilla ice cream
• Summer convenience store staple - locals eat this walking around Harborland
• The contrast of warm bread and cold ice cream shouldn't work, but does

Nikuman with Karashi:

• Chinese steamed buns eaten with Japanese hot mustard (not Chinese mustard)
• A Nankinmachi specialty that blends Chinese and Japanese flavors
• Locals add a shocking amount of mustard - start small

Ikuta Shrine Protocol: This 1,800-year-old Shinto shrine is one of Japan's oldest. Bow twice, clap twice, make your wish, bow once more. Locals visit for relationship blessings - it's considered powerful for romance. Don't take photos of people praying. Kobe Mosque Respect: Japan's oldest mosque (1935) in Kitano-cho welcomes respectful visitors outside prayer times. Remove shoes, women should cover shoulders and knees. The building survived the 1945 air raids and 1995 earthquake - locals consider it blessed. Temple vs Shrine Distinction: Buddhist temples have bells to ring before prayer; Shinto shrines have torii gates (often orange/red). Kobe has both throughout the city - observe how locals interact before following. Earthquake Memorials: While not religious sites, the earthquake memorials at Meriken Park and HAT Kobe carry spiritual significance. Locals leave flowers and bow respectfully. Visitors should observe quietly and not treat these as photo opportunities. Nunobiki Shrine on Rokko: Accessed via the Herb Garden ropeway, this mountain shrine sees locals hiking up for blessings. The journey is part of the spiritual practice - taking the easy route diminishes the experience, according to tradition.

Payment Methods:

• Credit cards accepted at department stores and chain restaurants
• Cash preferred at traditional shops, markets, and small eateries
• IC cards (ICOCA/Suica) work at konbini and many vending machines
• ATMs at 7-Eleven and post offices accept foreign cards

Bargaining Culture:

• Fixed prices everywhere - no bargaining expected or accepted
• Locals consider haggling embarrassing; don't attempt it
• Seasonal sales in January and July offer significant discounts
• Tax-free shopping available for tourists on purchases over ¥5,500

Shopping Hours:

• Department stores: 10 AM - 8 PM daily
• Shopping arcades: 10 AM - 7 PM (varies by shop)
• Konbini: 24/7 - essential for late-night needs
• Bakeries: Often 7 AM - 7 PM, selling out of popular items by afternoon
• Traditional shops may close one weekday - check before visiting

Tax & Receipts:

• 10% consumption tax included in displayed prices
• Tax refund counters at major department stores for tourists
• Keep receipts for expensive purchases - some hotels can process refunds
• Locals always take receipts; businesses legally required to offer them

Absolute Essentials:

• "Konnichiwa" (kon-nee-chee-WAH) = hello
• "Arigatou gozaimasu" (ah-ree-GAH-toh go-zah-ee-MAHS) = thank you very much
• "Sumimasen" (soo-mee-mah-SEN) = excuse me/sorry
• "Hai" (HAI) = yes
• "Iie" (EE-eh) = no
• "Eigo ga hanasemasu ka?" (AY-go gah hah-nah-seh-MAHS kah) = Do you speak English?

Daily Greetings:

• "Ohayou gozaimasu" (oh-hah-YOH go-zah-ee-MAHS) = good morning
• "Konbanwa" (kon-BAHN-wah) = good evening
• "Oyasumi nasai" (oh-yah-SOO-mee nah-SAI) = good night
• "Ja ne" (JAH neh) = see you (casual)

Numbers & Practical:

• "Ichi, ni, san" (ee-chee, nee, sahn) = one, two, three
• "Yon, go, roku" (yohn, go, ROH-koo) = four, five, six
• "Ikura desu ka?" (ee-KOO-rah deh-soo kah) = how much?
• "Doko desu ka?" (DOH-koh deh-soo kah) = where is it?

Food & Dining:

• "Itadakimasu" (ee-tah-dah-kee-MAHS) = said before eating
• "Gochisousama deshita" (go-chee-SOH-sah-mah deh-shee-tah) = thank you for the meal
• "Oishii!" (oh-EE-shee) = delicious!
• "O-mizu kudasai" (oh-mee-ZOO koo-dah-SAI) = water please
• "Kanpai!" (kahn-PAI) = cheers!

Kansai/Kobe Dialect Extras:

• "Okini" (oh-KEE-nee) = thanks (casual Kansai)
• "Akan" (ah-KAHN) = no good/don't
• "Honma?" (HOHN-mah) = really?

Authentic Local Products:

• Nada Sake: Premium bottles from Hakutsuru, Kikumasamune - ¥1,500-5,000
• Kobe Beef Curry: Retort pouches with real Kobe beef - ¥800-1,500
• Kobe Pudding: Creamy custard in glass jars - ¥400-600 each
• Arima Sandals: Traditional woven sandals from the onsen town - ¥2,000-5,000
• Local Tea Blends: Kobe-style tea from Motomachi shops - ¥500-2,000

Handcrafted Items:

• Kobe Pearl Jewelry: Natural Akoya pearls, the region's specialty - ¥5,000-50,000+
• Traditional Pottery: From Kitano-cho artisan shops - ¥1,000-10,000
• Leather Goods: Kobe's nagata district is Japan's leather capital - ¥3,000-30,000
• Sake Cups and Sets: Handmade at Nada breweries - ¥1,000-5,000

Edible Souvenirs:

• Kobe Wine: From local wineries - ¥1,000-3,000
• Tooth Tooth Sweets: Kobe-born Western confectionery - ¥500-2,000
• Chinese Snacks from Nankinmachi: Almond cookies, meat floss - ¥300-1,000
• Gofuken Melon Bread: Famous sweet bread - ¥200-400 per piece
• Isuzu Bakery Goods: Packaged sweets that travel well - ¥300-1,000

Where Locals Actually Shop:

• Motomachi Arcade: Traditional sweets, tea, crafts - best prices, authentic selection
• Nada Brewery Shops: Sake directly from source - exclusive seasonal varieties
• Daimaru/Sogo Basement: Premium packaged goods, beautifully presented
• Avoid: Kobe Station tourist shops - same items, higher prices

Japanese Family Culture in Kobe:

• Families eat out together frequently - children welcome everywhere
• Multi-generational outings common - grandparents often accompany families
• Children given independence early - you'll see young kids on trains alone
• Public spaces are child-friendly but quiet behavior expected

Kid-Friendly Attractions:

• Kobe Animal Kingdom: Interactive zoo where kids can touch and feed animals, stroller-friendly, nursing rooms available - ¥1,800 adults, ¥1,000 children
• Anpanman Children's Museum: Indoor playground in Harborland, perfect for rainy days - ¥2,000-2,500
• Kobe Oji Zoo: Over 70 years old, small amusement park inside - ¥600 adults, free for kids
• Mosaic Ferris Wheel: 15-minute ride with harbor views - ¥800

Practical Family Information:

• Strollers: Doable in Harborland and Sannomiya; difficult in Kitano's hills
• Changing Facilities: Available in all department stores, most large restaurants
• High Chairs: Standard at family restaurants, less common at traditional eateries
• Baby Food: Well-stocked at all konbini and drug stores

Family-Friendly Dining:

• Department store food courts have high chairs and children's menus
• Kobe Animal Kingdom has kid-friendly dining inside
• Nankinmachi street food perfect for grazing with children
• Avoid: High-end teppanyaki (children under 10 often not welcome)

Getting Around with Kids:

• JR trains have priority seating for families, easily accessible
• City Loop Bus is stroller-friendly with low floors
• Compact city center means less transit time than Tokyo or Osaka
• Consider staying near Sannomiya for easiest access to everything