Kobe, Japan, offers a blend of urban convenience, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Situtated on Osaka bay, a 40 min train ride from Osaka and 50 mins to Kyoto, Kobe has a long history as a port city, fostering a well-established environment where foreigners find it easy to visit and live. Kobe is often voted as one of the best places to live in Japan, boasting a temperate climate with distinct seasons, experiencing relatively mild winters and warm, humid summers.

With a selection of larger housing spaces at more reasonable prices compared to cities like Tokyo, this city of 1.5M offers fewer traffic jams and less crowded trains. Public safety is also well- maintained. While Japan can be expensive, Kobe’s cost of living is generally more reasonable than in Tokyo. Rent, in particular, tends to be lower.

Situated between the Seto Inland Sea and the Rokko Mountains, Kobe offers diverse leisure activities, from mountain climbing and skiing to seaside walks and swimming. Kobe offers a variety of attractions, including the Nankinmachi Chinatown, the Port of Kobe, the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, and the Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs. You can also enjoy museums, art galleries, parks, and sports facilities. Kobe has an efficient public transportation system with subways, buses, and trains, making it easy to get around. It’s also well-connected to other parts of Japan by high-speed rail.

Expats have access to Japan’s universal healthcare system, which is considered one of the best in the world. While English-speaking medical staff may not be ubiquitous, the quality of care is high. Kobe also has excellent public schools and a number of international schools catering to expat families. There are also several universities in the city.

In conclusion, Kobe offers a welcoming and high-quality environment for visitors and expats alike, with its international atmosphere, convenient location, cultural attractions, and relatively reasonable cost of living. While the language barrier can be a factor, the numerous benefits make it a strong contender for those looking to visit, live and work in Japan.