Western Japan - Kobe

Take a day off from visiting the castles, parks, historical temples and other tourist attractions and relax at coastal city of Kobe.  Famous for its Kobe beef, one of the best places to look for the perfect restaurant is at Kobe Harborland. Easily accessible from the JR Kobe Station, the waterfront district offers a wide selection of shops, restaurants, cafes and amusement parks. It is also a good get-away in case a  rain-drenched weather forecast threatens to spoil your day.

The most prominent shopping complex in the Kobe Harborland complex is Umie. It consists of three separate areas - Mosaic with its departmental stores and the South Mall and North Mall laden with eateries and cafes. Take a stroll down the romantic waterfront at sundown and you will be treated to a spectacular sunset!