Kobe

Kobe is the capital and largest city of Hyōgo Prefecture, Japan. It lies on the southern coast of Honshu, facing Osaka Bay in the Kansai region. The city has long been a major port and commercial center, with a history of foreign trade dating back to the 19th century. Today it combines a busy harbor economy with manufacturing, culture, and services.

In 1995, Kobe was devastated by the Great Hanshin earthquake, which caused extensive damage and loss of life. The disaster prompted a long period of rebuilding and modernization that shaped the city’s postwar development, including improvements to earthquake resilience, infrastructure, and urban planning.

The Port of Kobe remains a key element of the city’s economy and is part of the larger Hanshin industrial area that includes Osaka. Kobe is known for its shipping, manufacturing, and logistics facilities, as well as cultural sites, nightlife, and culinary traditions. The city also hosts universities, research institutions, and a diversified economy that supports tourism and industry.

Kobe beef is a famed product associated with the region. It refers to high-grade beef from Tajima cattle raised in Hyōgo Prefecture, valued for its marbling and tenderness. The brand is tightly regulated in Japan, and authentic Kobe beef is distinguished from other wagyu products by certification standards.

The name Kobe is also used as a given name or nickname in various cultures. In popular memory, it is associated internationally with the late American basketball player Kobe Bryant (1978–2020), who played for the Los Angeles Lakers.