This festival is held in early December to remember the 1995 Hanshin earthquake and to pray for blessings. The sparkling lights symbolize hope for the people of Kobe. It’s really moving.
Kobe Luminarie | Review by Kevin Huang
Other Reviews by Kevin Huang
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Mt. Otowa Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Opened in the year 778, the temple was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1994. In the 130, 000 m2 area of the precincts spread out on the hillside of Mt. Otowa, there are more than 30 cathedrals and monuments, including national treasures and important cultural properties.
The view from the stage is super open and wide—on a clear day, every shot looks great.
The old streets around it are really fun to wander, but the crowds are no joke. If you want photos without people, be prepared.
Still, it’s absolutely worth visiting at least once. -
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Otaru Aquarium
About 20 minutes by bus or sightseeing boat from JR Otaru Station, the aquarium showcases approximately 250 species and 5,000 marine organisms, primarily from Hokkaido and polar regions.
The aquarium faces the Sea of Japan and is surrounded by nature. There's a fun dolphin show and a seal feeding time—both are must-see events!
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Tanesashi Coast
Tanesashi Coast is a beautiful coastline with diverse landscapes, located within the Sanriku Reconstruction National Park and designated as a national scenic spot. Visitors can enjoy a variety of flowers, natural grasslands, a coastline with strange rocks and boulders, a century-old pine forest, and charming black-tailed gulls.
At Tanesashi Coast, you can check out all kinds of beautiful scenery—breeding grounds for black-tailed gulls, rocky shores, sandy beaches, and natural grasslands. Super cool spot to explore!
