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Kobe, the world’s sake capital
Kobe in Hyogo Prefecture is not only famous for beef, but it also includes part of the Nada Gogo, or “Five villages of Nada,” that became famous for brewing sake centuries ago. Nada sake uses the area’s relatively hard water and high-quality Hyogo-grown rice to offer richer flavors and lots of body, and was the origin of many brewing techniques still in use today.
Kobe breweries, including behemoths like Hakutsuru – which has over 280 years of history – collectively account for the largest production of sake in the world. Many have museums, like the Hakutsuru Sake Brewing Museum, a huge facility displaying traditional tools, videos and dioramas exploring the history of sake brewing, with information in English and other languages. Best of all, the museum includes plenty of souvenirs and a tasting area – with some free sake, and others that require a fee. -
Experience shukubo, a temple stay, on the holy mountain site
One of the best ways to experience the true magic of Koyasan is to stay overnight at a temple. Known as a shukubo, a temple stay at Koyasan gives visitors the opportunity to relax, reflect and immerse themselves in the traditional practices of Shingon Buddhism.
Discover the day-to-day lives of Koyasan’s monks in one of 50 temples that offer the shukubo experience. With breakfast, dinner and comfortable overnight lodgings available, you can truly immerse yourself in this enriching cultural experience. Taste the traditional vegetarian dishes prepared by the monks and join them for morning prayers and meditation.
Clean and simple furnishings, including traditional tatami floors and sliding doors (fusuma) typify the temple lodgings at Koyasan and reflect the abundant peace and tranquility that define these sacred spaces. It’s important to remember, though, that rooms and meals vary depending on the temple. For further information, you can refer to our guide on temple stays. -
Celebrate diversity at the Kobe 2024 Para Athletics World Championships
If you’re looking for a different kind of celebration, the Kobe 2024 Para Athletics World Championships offer another unique perspective on Japanese cultural appreciation. From May 17 to 25, select skilled athletes of different levels of ableness will gather from around the world to compete among peers and test their abilities.
The 11th edition of the global event will be East Asia’s first time hosting the World Para Athletics Championship. Hosted in Kobe, the capital of Hyogo Prefecture, this year will feature both men’s and women’s wheelchair racing, seated shot put, long jump, javelin and varying length races. There are many different dynamic events to experience, fostering an appreciation for the resilience and skill of para-athletes. While visiting Kobe for the Para Athletics World Championships, make sure to check out the night sights, gardens and try some Kobe beef, of course.