Kobe — the cosmopolitan capital of Hyogo Prefecture with a population of 1.5 million — has a rich history as one of Japan's most important ports for foreign trade, and international influences are evident in everything from its architecture and design to its food and fashion.

The city is home to one of Japan's most celebrated exports — Kobe beef, but its lesser known attractions offer far more compelling reasons to visit than a side of steak. Nearby Arima Onsen is one of the oldest hot-spring towns in Japan, Nankinmachi is Kobe's bustling Chinatown, and you'd be amiss to ignore the night view of Kobe's glittering harborside skyline.

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