CHIC_Chat_files/CHIC Chat Summer 2011.pdf

Summer 2011 

CHIC CHAT 

THE LATEST NEWS 

FROM CHIC! 

SUMMER IN JAPAN... 

It’s that time of year when most people are thinking about traveling 

home for the summer, whether to visit family or to enjoy a summer 

vacation. 

There are some brave people that are prepared to endure the heat and 

humidity that summers in Japan bring - so this edition of the CHIC Chat 

aims to help you keep you and your family occupied and (hopefully) cool 

if you are one of those people staying! We hope that this edition of the 

CHIC Chat will give you an idea of what the Fall program will offer you in 

August as well as review Winter and Spring with CHIC. 

We look forward to seeing you all again on Tuesday, August 16 when 

we open for the Fall program! 

CHIC 

will close on 

Friday, June 24 

for Summer Break

The Day Japan Changed Forever 

On March 11, at 2:46 pm, Japan suffered the worst 

natural disaster in its history and the most difficult crisis 

since WWII. A 9.0 magnitude earthquake hit off the 

Northeast coast of Japan, causing a catastrophic 

tsunami and crippling the city of Tokyo and northward. 

On that Friday afternoon, I was sitting on my couch 

watching television when Matt, my husband, sent me a 

text message with one word –– earthquake. He was on 

the 4 th floor at his office in a meeting when the 

earthquake hit. He said you could see the window 

shades swaying back and forth and it felt like he had 

just stepped off a boat. All my kids were at Canadian 

Academy, which was very proactive and implemented 

their "duck and cover" earthquake plan. 

Our house is part way up the mountain, 

so I really didn’t feel anything here. 

Since Kobe had a few little earthquakes 

in the previous month, I had 

downloaded an application on my 

iPhone that alerted me every time an 

earthquake occurred. My phone chimed 

and I received an alert saying a 7.9 magnitude 

earthquake just happened. I changed my television to 

CNN seeing if there was any news, and the coverage of 

the tsunami was just beginning. 

I admit this is when normally cool, collected Alexis went 

into panic mode. I tried to get Matt on his cell phone but 

the call wouldn’t go through. I tried calling my oldest 

daughter at school, but that call wouldn't go through 

either. I was finally able to get through to Marcy Finn 

and the first words out of my mouth were me sobbing 

and asking how to shut off the gas to my house. Don’t 

ask me why, but yes, those were my first words. Marcy 

and I sat on the phone for over an hour watching the 

news coverage together. Neither of us could believe 

what we were seeing. 

I sat in front of the television for hours watching 

everything unfold. In fact, Matt and I stayed awake 

almost the whole weekend, watching the coverage. It 

was so surreal watching and knowing the horrible 

images we were seeing was happening where we live. 

While Japan is not my home country, and we have only 

lived here for 2.5 years, Japan has become my home. It 

is no secret how much I love living here. I have fallen in 

love with the people, the culture, the country, and my 

heart ached watching everything that was happening. 

I cannot even begin to count the number of emails and 

Facebook messages, instant messages, and phone 

calls we received asking about our safety. When most 

people look on a map they think Japan is this tiny island 

and believe everything is close together. 

It was hard to explain to everyone just 

how far away we were from the 

earthquake, tsunami and the Fukushima 

Nuclear plant. It was hard to explain to 

them that we were safe. 

I try not to think of the "what ifs". I try not 

to think about living in one of the world's 

most earthquake prone countries. I tell myself it won't 

happen here in Kobe, but as we all know, it did 16 years 

ago. I try not to think about my husband, my son, seven 

other adult chaperones, and almost 60 6th graders 

sitting in the Sendai airport exactly three weeks before 

the earthquake and tsunami. The horrific images we 

saw of the airport haunted me for days. 

This disaster has crippled Japan. Almost 30,000 people 

lost their lives. Towns were wiped off the map. The 

nuclear disaster has terrified the country. Buildings and 

homes were destroyed. People’s lived were forever 

changed. But I have faith and hope that Japan will 

rebuild from this, and in the end, come back better than 

before. 

ALEXIS JACOBS

MY EXPERIENCE UP NORTH 

ALEXIS 

JACOBS 

I have been blessed to be able to take two trips to the 

Tohoku region to help in relief efforts. The first trip was 

just shy of three weeks after the earthquake and the 

second trip was eight weeks after the earthquake. 

My first trip was March 30th - April 1st. On this trip I 

spent most of my time feeling like I was walking on a 

movie set. I found it hard to wrap my head around the 

reality of the situation. So instead of thinking about the 

total devastation around me, I concentrated on the 

people we were there to help. Our main focus was to 

work with those who were not in evacuation centers. 

These people were living in their homes, usually on the 

second floor, or in abandoned buildings. They seemed 

to have slipped through the cracks as far as receiving 

aid. In the morning, we went to a warehouse and 

loaded our vehicles with food and supplies. Then we 

went with other aid teams to Ishinomaki, one of the most 

devastated areas, to conduct “drops”. 

At these drop stations we set up blue tarps and placed 

food and supplies on them. We then spoke with people 

in the area and asked them to help spread word that we 

were there with supplies and food. You could tell during 

these drops which areas had not been visited in a long 

time, as those people seemed more desperate for 

supplies and food items. 

The people were completely amazing. I saw people 

joking and laughing through their tears and fears. We 

took candy in our pockets and passed it out to the 

children and it was wonderful watching their faces light 

up with the sight of a small piece of candy. Then you 

saw the parents smile because their children were 

smiling. 

One woman had a hurt knee and asked if I could help 

her back to her living area. Along the way she was 

telling me how she thought she was going to die in the 

tsunami. When we arrived at her place she asked me to 

“chotto matte”. She came back a few minutes later and 

handed me a bag with some bread and sweets that she 

was saving and told me to “tabette” and share with my 

“tomodachis”. Here was this woman with nothing and 

she was giving me something to say thank you. At 

another location a woman told me it was a special day 

because we were there to help her. She then told me 

how she feared every night going to sleep that she will 

die. There were hundreds of stories like these. 

I went back to the Ishinomaki area May 8 th – May 11 th . 

On the first morning when driving to the disaster area of 

Ishinomaki, I kept thinking how much had been done, 

yet how little. In many ways it seems like some areas 

had just moved debris from one place to another. Some 

areas were totally untouched. Cars were still 

everywhere. Some places the people cleaned up 

around their own house, yet all around them laid 

complete carnage. In one location the ground actually 

sunk, so everyday at high tide water flows into the roads 

and houses. And the smell –– Imagine two month old 

stagnant water with rotting fish.

This trip consisted of doing supply drops and then working in those areas. Over the course of two days we did two 

food and supply drops, cleaned out a drainage system at a house, cleared dirt from the crawl space of a house, 

cleared mud from a house and garden area, and moved debris from a small swing set area so kids could come 

and play. 

Besides doing manual labor and meeting the people physical needs, we also tried to meet their emotional needs. I 

think in many ways this was more important than the actual work we were doing. We talked with the people, 

listened to their stories and played with the children. One man told us that his house was destroyed and his wife 

and baby died. He is only 33-years-old. The stories we heard were heartbreaking. 

On both of these trips I worked with the organization BeOne, a Christian group out of Osaka. They have been on 

the ground since shortly after the disaster and have made long-term plans for relief efforts. There are other local 

groups such as the Japanese Red Cross, Second Harvest, Peace Boat Japan, Mercy Corp/Peace Winds, Habitat 

for Humanity Japan, Canadian Academy and ARK/Hisaiba that are also involved in relief efforts and would be 

good ones to contact if you are looking for ways to get involved. 

This tragedy will not be over in a few weeks, a few months or probably even a few years. It will take a very long 

time for things to be rebuilt and repaired. So I encourage you to not just think about how you can help now, but 

how you may be able to help six months from now. Even something as small as sending letters and cards to a 

nursing home would be a blessing for those affected by this disaster. 

I have a hard time putting how this whole experience has affected me to "paper". My heart still aches and I think it 

will for a long time. It makes me sad these people are already being forgotten around the world as it is slowly 

becoming "out of sight, out of mind". It makes me more sensitive to other areas,which are experiencing their own 

hell trying to recover from disasters like tornadoes and flooding. In a blink of an eye lives can be forever changed. 

It could happen to any of us. 

So this is my challenge to you. Go out and do something. Go change someone’s life. Go change your own life. 

Volunteer to feed the homeless with Marcy Finn. Volunteer to read with kids at your child’s school. Make cards and 

send to a local nursing home. Donate blood. Take a meal to the family whose apartment caught fire last month. 

Reach out to those who may be affected by a tragedy or disaster near you. 

Go make a difference.

SPRING BREAK 

Blackburn Family - Hawaii 

Brockland Family - New Zealand 

Congleton Family - Hawaii

Janes Family - Uji 

SAKURA 

Jayshree Ramani and 

Neelam Sachdev 

Futatabi Sujicho Canal 

Bautista Family - Mt. Bizen, Shikoku

DEBBIE 

CANTONWINE 

The exact origins of temari or ‘hand-ball” are 

not known. It is believed to have started in 

China. They were once used as children’s toys 

for a bouncing game along with “temari-uta,” 

a chant that was sung during play. Over the 

years temari was taken up as a craft and 

became special gifts for friends or family on 

special occasions. They are not used as toys 

any longer, but considered an art form. 

The thought of me ever making colorful string 

balls, or “temari” since living in Japan for 

many years has finally been made possible 

thanks to 2 friends. I was admiring the works 

of art in Betty Schwartzkoph’s home. She had 

dozens of them displayed in a hibachi. The 

conversation soon went to how Betty took 

classes while living in Tokyo and learned the 

art of making many fabulous designs. 

Yoshi Fujisaki was at Betty’s on this day. She 

was interested to learn so she could teach her 

international friends how to create them. 

Yoshi soon started taking lessons in a class 

taught in Japanese that meets once per 

month. From this experience she is now 

showing me the techniques. Additionally, I 

gained knowledge from the 5 books I 

purchased online. 

The books can be purchased at Amazon. (Used 

ones at a better price!) In the search window 

type temari craft or something similar. 

Patterns are also available on line using a 

search engine such as GOOGLE and typing 

“temari ball free patterns”. It would be a good 

idea to understand the basic techniques to use 

many of these patterns. 

I taught our oldest daughter how to make one 

of the easier ones. She has continued on her 

own by buying a few books and made 

approximately 16 beautiful temari already, I’d 

say she’s “hooked” just like I am. They make 

great gifts and people usually like receiving 

something you created. 

Materials for making temari can be found at 

Yuzawaya store in Sannomiya Center-gai. 

The vast array of #5 perle cotton thread colors 

is unimaginable compared to the availability I 

experienced in USA. If I continue creating 

temari, I will be sure to stock up on many 

colors before I leave Japan! At this writing I 

have only made about 6 and already relatives 

are requesting a temari of their own. 

This class will be in the Fall 2011 Program!

Jayshree 

Ramani 

SUMMER FUN 

Now that summer is here, everyone is ready for some fun! 

There are many places to explore around the Hyogo area 

with your family, friends or adventuring on your own. Also, 

Chapters 7 & 8 of Living In Kobe, sold at CHIC offers many 

ideas as well. 

ZOOS 

Hyogo Animal Circle Park 

http://eonet.jp/travel/data/3025319_1386.html 

Approximately 6,600 square meters of space, surrounded by 

the natural mountain slopes. You can run through the trails 

between the trees with your free-spirited dog! Play with other 

dogs without a leash. Also, you can enjoy meals at the 

barbecue corner. This place houses a shelter for dogs and 

cats, which visitors can adopt. 

Open from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. 

Entrance fee is ¥1,500 for adults, ¥800 for children and ¥500 

for children under 3 years old. Take the Kobe Dentetsu train 

to Flower Town station. From here, take the 16, 19 or 42 bus 

to “Ningyou Watarihashi” stop. The park is a 10-minute walk 

from there. 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Kobe-shi, Kita-ku, Nagaochou kouzu 

Kita Mukai 3897-1 

free. Take the Hankyu Train to Oji Koen station. The zoo is a 

5-minute walk. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Nada-ku, Oji machi 3 – 1 

Himeji Central Park 

http://www.central-park.co.jp/ 

Himeji Central Park Zoo and amusement park is also a safari 

style park in Himeji. Opened in March 1984, you can roam 

this safari in your own car and observe cheetahs, lions, tigers 

and carnivorous animals and herbivores at close range. 

Fireworks shows will be held every weekend in July and 

August. Open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Entrance fee is ¥2,900 for adults, ¥1,700 for elementary age 

children and ¥1,000 for children 3 years and above. Take the 

JR train to Himeji station. From there, take the bus number 

74, which goes directly to the Park. 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Himeji-shi, Toyotomi cho 

Kodani 1436 – 1 

Oji Zoo 

http://ojizoo.jp/ 

Open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed every Wednesday. 

Entrance is ¥600 for adults, ¥200 for Middle school students 

and above. Elementary age children and senior citizens –

Himeji Zoo 

http://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/dobutuen/ 

This zoo is not only a place of recreation that can be 

enjoyed by the elderly and children, it is a place for 

everyone to learn about the activities of animals and the 

environment. The zoo is also plays an important role in 

matters related to wildlife conservation and research, 

including animal consultation and the dissemination of 

knowledge about the animals. Open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Entrance fee is ¥200 for adults and ¥30 for children 

Take the JR train to Himeji station and walk north for about 

15 minutes. If taking the bus, get off at “Ohtemon” stop. 

Tel: 079-284-3636. 

Address: Himeji-shi, Honcho 68 banchi (East of Himeji 

castle) 

Kobe Bird Park 

http://www.kamoltd.co.jp/kobe/english/ 

With a total area of about four hectares and the area 

around the greenhouse consisting of 16,000 square 

meters, water lilies, begonias and other plants and 

gardening, birds, visitors can enjoy the interaction with the 

organisms and fish. Open from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Entrance fee is ¥1,500 for adults and ¥700 for elementary 

age children. Take the Portliner from Sannomiya and get 

off at “Port Island Minami, Kachoen Mae”. 

Address: 7-1-9 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-Ku, Kobe 

PARKS 

Shin Kobe ropeway & Nunobiki Herb Garden 

http://www.kobeherb.com/ 

There are about 200 species, 75,000 types in Japan's 

largest herb garden. Flowers bloom year-round here. The 

park has 14 different garden areas, and you can enjoy a 

variety of themes for each season according to each area. 

Open from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. weekdays, until 8:30 p.m. on 

weekends, and from July 20 – August 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 

8: 30 p.m. everyday. 

is at the southwest side of ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel at Shin 

Kobe Station. 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Kobe-shi, Chuou-ku, 

Kitano-machi 1 - 4 - 3 

Ikuta River Park 

http://www.kobe-park.or.jp/kouen_keikaku/chuo/ikutagawa/ 

index.html 

There are many playgrounds, toys and public bathrooms in 

this park along the Ikuta River. Open 24 hours and free. 3 

minutes walk south of Shin Kobe station. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Chuo ku, Ikuta gawa 

HAT Yume Park 

http://www.eld.jp/monthly/076.htm 

Yume (dream) Park is a park in an urban area about 7,500 

square meters. The park grounds are spacious and people 

can play ball. Yume Park is relatively empty, so that even 

on public holidays, you can find a vacant spot to enjoy. 

Open 24 hours and free entrance. 

Walk 15 minutes southwest from JR Nada station. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Chuoku, Wakinohama Kaigan-dori 3- 

chome 

HAT Nagisa Park 

http://www.nightview.info/emotion/yakei/kobe-city/nagisa/ 

HAT Nagisa Park is located in the heart of the ocean front 

of Kobe. The beautiful lights of the Harbor Highway across 

the bay can be enjoyed from here. Very beautiful lighting in 

the park can also be seen. It is beautiful to view the 

fireworks launched every summer in the harbor. Open 24 

hours and free entrance. Walk 15 minutes southwest from 

JR Nada station. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Chuoku, Wakinohama Kaigandori 

Entrance fee of the ropeway ticket and herb garden is 

¥1,200 for adults, ¥1,100 for middle school children, and 

¥600 for elementary age children. The start of the ropeway

Kobe Chuo Ryokuchi Park 

This park expands across an area of 1.8 hectares. It is 

popular among those who enjoy walking and recreation. In 

the central green space in the grounds of Port Island are a 

lot of flowing streams, flowers blooming on the banks, and 

you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and relax. 

Open 24 hours and free entrance. 

Take the Portliner from Sannomiya and get off at “Shimin 

Hiroba” station. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Chuo-ku, Minatojima 

Kobe Kita Koen on Port Island 

http://www.walkerplus.com/nightview/kansai/detail/ 

nv2008.html 

A great park for fishing, a leisurely stroll, watching the ships 

sail by and enjoying the evening view of the harbor and light 

up of the Port Island bridge. Open 24 hours and free 

entrance. Take the Portliner from Sannomiya and get off at 

“Naka Koen” Station and walk about 8 minutes. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Chuo-ku, Minatojima 2-3 

Kobe Sports Park 

http://www.kobe-park.or.jp/sougou/ 

Univer Memorial Hall, Green Arena, Gymnasium. Training 

Center, Baseball field, Athletic field, Multipurpose ground, 

Tennis Court, Outdoor Stadium and lots more is housed in 

this one area. Open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Entrance fee varies for each establishment 

Take the subway from Sannomiya or Shin Kobe, Yamate 

line, going towards “Seishin Chuo” and get off at “Sogo 

Undo Koen” station. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Kita-ku 

Miki Green Pia 

http://www.greenpiamiki.com/ 

Spread over the Eastern hills of Miki, "Miki Greenpia" are 

347 hectares which is surrounded by vast greenery. This 

resort consists of a variety of activities, sport facilities 

(cycling, go-cart, min-golf, rainbow slide, roller coaster ride, 

adventure maze and segway rental), camping, and natural 

hot springs at the hotel here. Surrounded by nature, visitors 

can enjoy throughout the four seasons. 

The rides are open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., and the hot 

spring until 10 p.m. 

Entrance fee is free, but one-time payment of ¥500 is 

required if you come by car, and separate payment for the 

rides. Take the Shinki bus from Sannomiya towards Ebisu 

station (approx. 40 minutes) and get off at “Midorigaoka” 

Station. 

Bus timetable - http://navi.shinkibus.jp/snk/html/ 

23254_2.html 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Miki-shi, Hosokawamachi Makiyama 

894-60 

Akashi Kaikyo Park 

http://www.kkr.mlit.go.jp/akashi/ 

This park aims for a coexistence of nature and people, 

people to people; this futuristic park across the Akashi 

Kaikyo Bridge is based on the theme of an environmentallyfriendly 

zone, which is spread over the Akashi Kaikyo 

National Government Park in Kobe to Awaji-shima, Hyogo 

Prefecture. Open from 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. in the summer 

months. Entrance fee is ¥400 for adults and ¥80 for 

children. Take the bus from Sannomiya Bus terminal 

number 5 to “Awaji Yume Butai”. The ride is approximately 

one hour. Bus timetable - http://www.honshi-bus.co.jp/ 

daiyaooiso.htm 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Awaji-shi, Minami Unosaki 8-10

SCIENCE MUSEUMS 

Himeji City Science Museum 

http://www.city.himeji.lg.jp/atom/index.html 

Himeji City Science Museum includes a huge planetarium; 

The facets of "earth", "nature", "science" and "space" in 

various exhibitions. Himeji City Science Museum provides 

substantial facts and figures, which is shown through science 

displays, and the compelling skeletal model of Allosaurus and 

Stegosaurus. Visitors can also touch real dinosaur fossils. 

Open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed on Mondays and public 

holidays. Entrance fee is ¥500 for adults and ¥200 for 

students. Planetarium fee is ¥400 for adults, ¥100 for high 

school students and ¥50 for middle and elementary students. 

Take the JR train to Himeji station. From here, take the #37 

bus to “Hoshi no Ko kan” stop. The bus ride is approximately 

20 mins. 

Address: Himeji-shi, Aoyama 1470-15 

Kobe Waterworks Museum 

http://www.city.kobe.lg.jp/life/town/waterworks/water/ 

hakubutukan/ 

We cannot live without water. The nature of water and its 

relationship with people, in order to have a better 

understanding of the water environment for a better 

tomorrow, is the first step to creating a healthy global 

environment. With the water fairy, "Mickle", visitors will 

encounter the mystery and importance of this natural 

resource. 

Open from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Entrance: ¥200 for adults 

and ¥100 for children. Take a #7 bus from JR Sannomiya 

and get off at “Kusudani Machi” stop. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Hyogo-ku, Kusudani machi 37-1 

Akashi Municipal Planetarium 

http://www.am12.jp/english/index.html 

The planetarium stands on the meridian of 135 degrees east 

longitude, which determines Japan Standard Time. Inside, 

there is a planetarium and facilities where visitors can learn 

about astronomy and the universe. The observatory room 

has a breathtaking panoramic view of the Akashi Kaikyo 

Bridge and the Seto Inland Sea. Open from 9:30-17:00 (Last 

entry 16:30) Closed Mondays, 2nd Tuesday of the month 

(When Tuesday falls on a national holiday, the planetarium 

will be closed Wednesday), December 27-January 4. 

Entrance fee - Adults: ¥700; Junior and Senior High School 

Students: ¥400; Children: ¥300 

Directions: 3 minute walk to north from Sanyo Hitomarumae 

Station or 15 minutes on foot from JR-Akashi station in an 

eastern direction. 

Address: 2-6 Hitomaru-cho, Akashi 

Kobe Science Museum 

http://www.kobe-kagakukan.jp/english/index.html 

Kobe Science Museum is a fun place where visitors can 

explore the familiar and the strange, various phenomenon of 

science, and have an entertaining and sensory experience. 

Open from Monday-Friday 9:30-16:30, Saturday, Sunday, 

National holidays, Spring and Summer vacation 9:30-19:00 

(The last planetarium show starts from 19:00). Closed on 

Wednesdays. 

Entrance fee is ¥600 for adults and ¥300 for children. 

Planetarium fee is ¥400 for adults and ¥200 for children. 

Take Portliner Railway to Minami-Koen station, and then 

follow signs. The museum is about 3 minutes walk from 

Minami-Koen station. 

Address: Minatojima Nakamachi 7-7-6, Chuo-ku, Kobe city 

Nadahama Science Square 

http://www.kobelco.co.jp/nadahama/science/ 

The theme of this establishment is "steel power energy and 

the environment.” Explore science and technology while 

having fun and experience the wonder of it! Open from 9:30 

a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Entrance fee is free. Closed on Mondays. 

Take the JR train to “Rokkomichi” station and southwest for 

about 25 minutes. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Nada-ku, Nadahama Higashimachi 2 

banchi

Itami City Museum of Insects 

http://www.itakon.com/index.html 

The Itami City Museum of Insects opened in November 1990. 

This museum has been established in the wonderful natural 

environment of Koyaike Park so that people can learn about 

the environment and its relation to human life by finding out 

about insects and other living things. This museum covers 

about 3,000 square meters, and has the facilities for nature 

study, such as a butterfly farm, a movie hall, exhibition room 

for insect ecology, special exhibition room and study room. It 

is hoped that, through the activities at this museum, visitors 

will not only increase their knowledge of insects but also learn 

scientific methods of understanding and expand their 

appreciation of nature. 

Open from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays. 

Entrance is fee is ¥400 for adults, ¥200 for junior high and 

high school students and ¥100 for children. 

Take the train, JR or Hankyu Takarazuka line to Itami station. 

From here, take the bus from #4 depot and exit at “Matsuoka” 

or “Tamada danchi”. 

Address: 3-1 Koyaike, Itami-shi, Hyogo 664-0015 

Kobe Municipal Arboretum 

http://www.kobe-park.or.jp/shinrin/index.html 

This Kobe City Forest Botanical Garden is a botanical 

garden, which was founded in 1940. The arboretum is based 

on the idea of planting close to nature. Visitors can enjoy a 

wonderful day and nature walks, as well as a flurry of 

seasonal forest birds. Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on 

Wednesdays. Entrance fee is ¥300 for adults and ¥150 for 

elementary school students. 

Take the #25 bus from Sannomiya bus terminal, which goes 

directly to the Arboretum. This bus does not operate from 

December – March. Bus fare is ¥530. Or take the subway 

from Sannomiya to “Kita Suzurandai” station. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Kita-ku, Yamada-cho, Kamitanigamiaza, 

Nagao 1-2 

BARBECUE SPOTS 

Akashi Bridge Terrace Okura 

http://www.kobe-j.co.jp/okura/barbecue/index.html 

Excellent beach location overlooking the Akashi Strait! 

Open from Golden Week to about mid-October, from 11:30 

a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Entrance fee is from ¥750 to ¥2,480. Take 

the JR train to Asagiri station and walk about 3 minutes. 

Address: Akashi-shi, Okura kaigan dori 1-chome 

Kobe Fruits and Flower Park 

http://fruit-flowerpark.jp/ 

Visitors can enjoy seasonal, colorful flowers and trees along 

the garden path throughout the year. Naturally produced fruits 

can be enjoyed from the months of August to October. On 

site, there is also an amusement park, flower arrangement 

school, go-carting, mini-golf, train ride, monkey show, animal 

land, and swimming pool. Open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Entrance is ¥500 for adults and ¥250 for children. Take the JR 

train to Sanda station. From here, there is a free shuttle bus 

that goes to the park. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Kita-ku, Osawa machi, Kami ozawa 2150 

Shiawase no Mura (Village of Happiness) 

http://www.shiawasenomura.org/english/ 

village_of_appiness_kobe.html 

Shiawase-no-mura is a comprehensive welfare complex 

equipped with a variety of integrated facilities designed to 

support independent living for the disabled and the elderly, 

and their participation in society, while also serving as a 

meeting place for all Kobe citizens to deepen mutual 

understanding and work together to create a society in which 

everyone can lead a full life. Open from 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. 

Prices vary depending on which facilities are used. 

Take the #66 bus from Hanshin Sannomiya station, which will 

take you directly there in about 30 minutes. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Kita-ku, Yamada-cho, Shimotanigami 

Azanaka Ichiriyama 14-1 

Suma ura Sanjo Amusement Park 

http://www.sanyo-railway.co.jp/sumaura/index.html 

Sumaura Sanjo Amusement Park is a park with abundant 

greenery, including a botanical park in Sumaura-k!en, which 

spreads to around the summit of the mountain of Suma 

prefecture. The park also has a route through Rokko 

Mountains, and it has been well maintained with excursion 

routes for people to hike the trails. 

Open from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Closed every Tuesday. 

Roundtrip ropeway fee is ¥700 for adults and ¥350 for 

children. Take the Sanyo train line to Sumaura Koen station. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Suma-ku, Ichinoya machi 5-chome 3-2

Maishima Sports Island 

http://maishima.jp/ 

Maishima Sports Island is a man-made island located in 

Osaka Bay area, where visitors can stay and enjoy baseball, 

tennis, the athletic field, and stay over in their lodge. 

Open from 6 a.m. – 9 p.m., but varies on the facilities used. 

Take the JR loop line to Nishikujo station. From here, take the 

#81 bus to the Island. 

Address: Osaka-shi, Konohanaku, Hokukoryokuchi 2-chome 

1-107 

Miki Arboretum 

http://www.mikiyama.net/bbq.html 

The Arboretum is located in the heart of Miki city. There are 

many facilities here, including a music hall. It is rich in nature 

and can be enjoyed all four seasons through recreational and 

cultural activities and sports. Open from 10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. 

Closed on Wednesdays. 

Entrance is free. Take the Shinki bus from JR Sannomiya to 

Ebisu station. From here, take the Miki bus to “Shinrin 

Shokubutsuen” stop. 

Address: Miki-shi, Fukuiji, Miki-san 2465 – 1 

Miki Horse Land Park 

http://www.miki-hlp.or.jp/ 

At the Miki Horse Land Park, visitors can interact with 

equestrian animals in nature and enjoy races. Open from 9 

a. m. – 5 p.m. (until 4 p.m. from November to February). 

Closed on Mondays. 

Entrance is free (additional charge for use of facilities) 

Take the Kobe Dentetsu train and get of at ‘Miki’ station. From 

here, take a taxi to the park (10 min. ride). 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Miki-shi, Besshocho takagi 

Take the JR train and get off at Suma station. Pay-parking is 

available. 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Kobe-shi, Suma-ku, Wakamiya machi 

1-chome 

Azure Maiko Beach 

http://www.kobe-park.or.jp/azur/ 

In the spring and summer, this is a great spot for barbecues, 

and in the summer, a fun spot to enjoy the bright sunny days 

along the 800-meter coastline. In the evenings, visitors can 

enjoy the sunset by the Akashi bridge and watch the romantic 

light-up scene. Open from July – August. There are 2 

showers and 2 toilets available for use. 

Take the JR train and get off at ‘Maiko’ station and walk 5 

minutes. Pay-parking available 

Address: Kobe-shi, Tarumi-ku, Kaigan dori 11 

West Maiko Beach 

http://www.akashikaikyou.com/turiba/files/maiko-4.html 

This 400-meter beach is located in between Azure Maiko 

Beach and Akashi Ookura Beach. This spot is for those who 

like to spend some quiet time, untouched by commercialism. 

There is a sushi place near by and a super-sento (bath 

house) along route 2 towards Akashi, where you can unwind 

after a relaxing day at the beach. There are no facilities 

available here but you can barbecue and bring fireworks to 

light. 

Take the JR train to ‘Maiko’ station and walk west about 1 km. 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Kobe-shi, Tarumi-ku, Nishimaiko 1- 

chome 

BEACHES 

Suma Beach 

http://sumabeach.jp/index.htm 

Every summer, this beach is lined up with many stalls serving 

food and selling beach equipment, and 800,000 people enjoy 

their summers along the 2 km coastline here. 

Open from mid-July to end of August. There are 4 toilets and 

2 showers available for use by visitors.

Akashi Ookura Beach 

http://www.yokoso-akashi.jp/spot-sea.htm 

A new beach spot under the Akashi suspension bridge - 

sunbathers can enjoy swimming, fishing and water sports 

here during the day and enjoy the romantic scene in the 

evening. About 100,000 visitors annually visit this beach. 

Open from July to August from 8:30 a.m. – 5: 30 p.m. There 

is 1 toilet and 1 shower available for use. Pay-parking onsite. 

Take the JR train to ‘Asagiri’ station and walk south for 

about 2 minutes. 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Akashi-shi, Okura Kaigan-dori 

Akashi Matsue Beach 

http://www.city.akashi.hyogo.jp/sangyou/kankou_ka/ 

g5_midokoro/midokoro_22.html 

Awaji Island and, of course, the Akashi suspension bridge is 

right before your eyes at the beach. It is an ideal spot for 

families who can enjoy both high and low waves along this 1- 

km coastline. 70,000 people visit annually. 

Open from July to August. Toilets, showers and locker 

rooms are available. Pay-parking on site. 

Take the Sanyo train and get off at ‘Hayshizake Matsue 

Kaigan’ station and walk about 5 minutes. 

Himeji Matogata Beach 

http://www.himeji-kanko.jp/search/index.php?act=detl&id=52 

From April to June, beach-goers can partake in clam digging 

and from July to August, they can enjoy swimming. 5000 

sunbathers can relax along this 500-meter beach. Showers 

and changing rooms are available here. Open from July to 

August. Clam digging cost is ¥1,200 for adults, ¥1,000 for 

children, for beach use – ¥700 for adults and ¥500 for 

children (includes use of shower and changing rooms.) 

Take the Sanyo train to ‘Ooshio’ station and take the free 

shuttle bus from there to the beach. 

Address: Himeji-shi, Matogatacho, Matogata 

However, after mid-August, jellyfish are abound so do take 

care. Lifeguards are on duty only during the summer season. 

Cost is ¥1,000 for adults, ¥600 for children and ¥200 for 

toddlers from 3 – 5 years of age. 

Take the Sanyo train to ‘Shirahama no miya’ station and walk 

south about 1.5 km. 

CAMPING 

Awaji Takataya Wellness Park 

http://www.takataya.jp/stay/camp.htm 

A popular, full-fledged camping site for families to enjoy, 

surrounded by lush gardens, nature, and the sea breeze. It is 

full on weekends and summer vacation time, and tents are 

seen propped up everywhere. An AC power cord is 

conveniently located throughout the camp and it is 5 minutes 

away from the beach so swimming and fishing can be 

enjoyed. In addition, a hiking trail is also nearby. Day camps 

are also allowed. Open from 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. 

Cost is ¥3,500 per day. Other charges apply for extra use of 

facilities. Take the Shinki Himeji/Awaji Highway bus directly 

to the park. 84-minute bus ride. 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Sumoto-shi, Goshiki machi, tsushi 

1087 

Shiawase no Mura - Village of Happiness (see previously 

mentioned article) 

Maishima Sports Island Camp (see previously mentioned 

article) 

Himeji Shirahama Beach 

http://izu-shirahama.jp/beach/beach_harada.html 

The peninsula's largest beach, "Shirahama Oohama Beach", 

is airy and spacious sandy beach and about 800 meters from 

north to south. The main beach in Shirahama, is popular 

from the younger generation to families, crowded with 

bathers who come each year seeking a sea of white sand 

and blue sky and is most popular among surfers. The beach 

officially opens from mid-July but weather permitting, beach 

goers can enjoy from Golden week to mid-September.

ATHLETIC FIELDS 

Mt Rokko Athletic Field 

http://www.rokkosan.com/athletic/ 

There are 40 spots dotted around with equipment made from 

wooden logs, ropes for net climbing, and a small wooden 

boat for navigating around the lake. Various challenges 

await! 

Open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed on Thursdays. 

Entrance fee is ¥900 for adults and ¥500 for children. 

Take the bus number 16 from JR Rokko-michi station or 

Hankyu Rokko Station. From here, take the Rokko Cable to 

the top, and then the Mt. Rokko bus. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Nada-ku, Rokkosancho kita, Rokko 

4512-988 

Miki Arboretum Park (see previously mentioned article) 

AMUSEMENT PARKS 

Tojoko Omocha Park 

http://www.omochaoukoku.com/tojoko/index.html 

It’s a favorite place for young children to enjoy playing with 

all kinds of toys, families to join in on amusement rides and 

frolic in the pool within the park. There are special events 

planned every day. Open from 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. in the 

summer time, otherwise from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on 

Thursdays in non-summer months. Entrance for only the 

amusement park is ¥1,000 for adults and ¥800 for children. 

Entrance for amusement park and pool is ¥1,800 for adults 

and ¥1,000 for children. For only the pool, it is ¥1,300 for 

adults and ¥800 for children. 

Take the JR train from Sannomiya and get off at ‘Shin 

Sanda’ Station (change lines at ‘Amagasaki’). From here 

there is a free shuttle bus that departs at 9:30, 10:30 and 11: 

30 in the morning and returning to the station at 3:00, 4:00 

and 5:00 in the afternoon. At other timings, take a taxi to the 

park, which will cost around ¥6,000 yen. 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Kato-gun, T!j!machi Kurotani 1216 

located in the bay west of Osaka. They also have camping 

facilities, which include bungalow styles of the nomadic Pao 

tribe: Takayukashiki and Tateanashiki style residences, log 

cabins, including other hut styles. Trailers, tents and car 

parks are also available. At the barbeque corner fresh food is 

sold. Utensils are also available for hire. 

Open from 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Entrance is ¥800 for 

adults and ¥400 children. 

Take the Shinki Express Bus from Sannomiya Bus Terminal, 

which will take you directly to the park in approximately 70 

minutes. Bus fare is ¥3,000 for adults and ¥1,500 for 

children. 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Awaji-shi, Shiotanijima 8-5 

Himeji Central Park 

http://www.central-park.co.jp/ 

http://www.ryuusenkaku.jp/english/himeji_central_park.html 

(English personal website) 

“Opened in 1984 as a safari park type zoo and amusement 

park, the Himeji Central Park is a theme park located on a 

vast plot of land that is 1.9 million large. It has a "sister 

park" agreement with the Nairobi National Park in Kenya and 

has many ways to experience a safari: a drive-through safari 

where you can ride in your car and observe large 

carnivorous animals such as tigers and lions and herbivorous 

animals from your car window, a walking safari where you 

can stroll and see such animals as water fowl and kangaroos 

up close, and a sky safari where you can see animals from a 

rope way gondola. In the amusement park, there is a large 

Ferris wheel and suspended roller coaster that stands 35 

meters off the ground. Also in the summertime, there is 

"Aquaria" such as a pool with flowing water and a "Surfing 

Downhill" where you can slide down a hill on a surf board 

and in the winter there is "ice park" by skating on a chalk 

castle of wind.” 

Awaji World Park Onokoro 

http://www.onokoro.jp/ 

A trip here will require a day, but it will be a day well spent. 

The park itself is quite a novelty; there are miniatures of 

famous world monuments and historical sites like the Taj 

Mahal. There is also a Ferris wheel, a museum and other 

attractions. This theme park is located on Awaji Island,

Open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Closed on Wednesdays. 

(However, it is open on national holidays, and during the 

spring, summer, and winter holidays.) 

Entrance is ¥2,900 for Adults (junior high school students and 

above), ¥1,700 for elementary school students, and ¥1,000 

for small children (3 years old up to elementary school age). 

Take the JR or Sanyo train to Himeji. From here, take the 

number 74 Shinki Bus, which goes directly to the park. Bus 

fare is ¥530 for adults and ¥270 for children. 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Himeji-shi, Toyotomicho, Kodani 1436-1 

POOLS 

Dekapathos – Rokko Island 

http://www.dekapathos.com 

This swimming pool and water park was opened in July 2005 

on Rokko Island. It is part of a sport complex, which includes 

a skateboard park and futsal area. Open from 10 a.m. – 6 

p.m., every July to the beginning of September. Entrance is 

¥1,300 for adults, ¥900 for middle school students, ¥700 for 

elementary students, and ¥400 for preschool children. 

Take the Rokko Liner from JR Sumiyoshi and get off and 

‘Marine Park Station’. Or take the Minato Kanko Bus from 

Sannomiya and get off at “Kobe Kokusai Daigaku Mae’ stop. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Higashinada-ku, Koyocho Naka 8 

Amagasaki Sports Forest 

Amarago Water Park 

http://www.a-spo.com/ 

http://www.a-spo.com/ama/ 

This sports complex includes a futsal park, ground golf, ice 

skating rink, water park, and kiddy land and fitness area. The 

water park has a tube ride, downhill slider, wave pool and 

many other attractions for avid pool enthusiasts. Water park 

is open from July to the beginning of September, from 10 

a.m. – 6 p.m. The ice skating rink is open from October until 

the beginning of May. The other facilities are open all year 

round. Admission for the water park is ¥1,200 for adults, 

¥800 for middle school children, and ¥600 for elementary 

children. Same for ice skating. Varies for use of other facilities 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Amagasaki-shi, Ougimachi 14-1 

Riso 

http://www.reso.jp/ 

Naruohama Resort is a health facility in the southern district 

of Naruohama Seaside Park. The seaside spa resort complex 

is close to Osaka and Kobe, consists of four floors above 

ground with a basement floor wide open fanning toward the 

sea, holding an amusement pool, relaxing bath, fitness 

facilities and a restaurant. Open 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. all year 

round. Closed on Wednesdays on non-summer months. 

Entrance is ¥1,700 for adults, ¥1,300 for middle school 

students, ¥1,000 for elementary students and ¥700 for 

preschoolers. 

Take the Hanshin train to ‘Koshien’ station. From here, either 

take the free shuttle bus (departs at a scheduled time) or take 

the Hanshin Dentetsu bus from depot number 7 and get off at 

‘Riso Naruohama’. 

Address: Hyogo-ken, Nishinomiya-shi, Naruohama 3-13 

Nadahama Garden Baden 

http://www.kobelco.co.jp/nadahama/garden/ 

Nadahama Garden Baden is an indoor heated pool area with 

spa facilities. Programmed aqua exercise and aqua sports 

workouts, several Jacuzzi baths, and a wet & dry sauna all 

promote a great workout. 

Open from 10 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Closed every 3 rd Wednesday. 

Cost is ¥1,200 yen for adults and ¥500 for children. Take the 

Hanshin Train to ‘Shinzaike’ station. Walk south past 

Southern Mall. Turn west at the Family Mart and walk about 

5-10 minutes. It is on your right. 

Address: Kobe-shi, Nada-ku, Shinzaike minami machi 2- 

chome 25-6 

Take the JR train to ‘Tachibana’ or Hanshin train to ‘Koshien’, 

‘Mukogawa’ or ‘Amagasaki Center Pool Mae’. From here, 

take the free shuttle bus to the park. Bus timings vary 

depending on route.

Spa World 

http://www.spaworld.co.jp/english/ 

An onsen theme park with full resort facilities. Spa World 

features an Asian and European zoned hot spring, sauna, a 

huge amusement pool full of fun aquatic playground 

equipment, such as our formidable waterslides. In our 

adjoining Bade Zone, there is a panoramic bath for the whole 

family, with commanding views of Tsutenkaku Tower, a 

symbol of Osaka. There is also a fitness center, stone spa for 

women only and an esthetic and relaxation salon. 

The amusement pool is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Other 

facilities are open until later. Cost is normally ¥2,700 for 

adults and ¥1,500 for children. However, until the end of this 

year, they have a promotional fee of ¥1,000 for adults and 

children. 

From Osaka/Umeda station, take the Midosuji subway to 

‘Dobutsuenmae’. Take exit number 5 and Spa World is 

around the corner. 

Address: 3-4-24 Ebisu-higashi Naniwa-ku, Osaka-shi 

The Boon at Hirakata Park 

http://www.hirakatapark.co.jp/theboon/ 

A place for family-fun: four water slides, waterfall, tumbler, 4 

pools and many more attractions. This pool is part of Hiraka 

Amusement Park. Open from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. from mid- 

July to mid-September. Entrance for pool only is ¥900 for 

adults and ¥500 for children. 

Take the JR train to Kyobashi (changing lines at Osaka). 

From here, switch to the Keihan train and take it to ‘Hirakata 

Koen’ station. 

Address: Osaka-fu, Hirakata-shi, Hirakata Koen machi 1-1 

Jayshree 

Ramani

Hifri Family 

BlackburnStudio 

EASTER EGG HUNT PRIZE WINNER 

Please see www.blackburnstudio.co.uk for more images

CHICKEN TORTILLA 

SOUP 

Mary Gail Congleton 

Ingredients 

Instructions 

• 1 onion chopped 

• 2-3 cloves garlic chopped 

• 3 chicken breasts 

• chopped green chillies 

• 1 tsp cumin 

• 1/2 tsp chili powder 

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped 

• 4 cans chicken broth 

• 1 can water 

• 28oz crushed tomatoes 

• 1can black beans rinsed & drained 

• 1 can of corn drained 

• In a stock pot or Dutch oven, heat about 

3 tbs of olive oil. Sauté garlic, onion and 

diced chicken until chicken is no longer 

pink. 

• Stir in dried ingredients. May add 

cilantro now or closer to serving. 

• Add liquid ingredients and simmer on 

low for about an hour. May transfer to a 

crock pot at this point to slow cook. Corn 

and beans can be added now or closer to 

serving time. Add canned chili now. 

• Have on hand several of the following 

toppings: tortilla chips, sour cream, sliced 

avocado, shredded cheddar cheese, green 

onions, jalapenos. 

Enjoy!

HIKING IN JAPAN 

Kayoko Nagamachi 

On April 21, I went to Udacity, 

in Nara prefecture with 

my hiking club for a fun day 

exploring. Uda-city is 

South East from Nara-city. 

Uda is famous for its size as 

well as the large collection 

of cherry trees (there are 

millions of blooms on this 

mountain). 

April is too early for the 

Sakura to be in bloom as it 

is much colder in the 

mountains than in Kobe. 

My hiking group was quite 

disappointed that we didn’t 

get to see any Sakura as if it 

had been in bloom we 

would have been 

overwhelmed by Sakura 

underneath the huge rock. 

After seeing BYOUBU IWA 

(rock screen), another name 

for the mountain area in 

Uda, we headed for Mt. 

Kunimi,which is 1062 

meters high. 

In order for you to travel 

there you would need to 

take Kintetsu Line, 

exiting at Haibara 

Station. From 

Haibara St. take a 

taxi to BYOUBU IWA. 

It is often difficult 

taking public 

transportation to the 

mountain as it is 

about a 30 minutes ride but 

it is worth seeing if you are 

interested in hiking and 

seeing more of natural 

Japan. 

Hiking to Mt. Kunimi we 

walked up some steep 

slopes but it was beautiful 

as on the way back down 

the mountain we passed a 

collection of waterfalls. 

We arrived back to Haibara 

Station around 

4:00pm after a fun day 

exploring a beautiful 

mountain! 

Our next hiking adventure 

is Mt. Rokko, in an 

unknown part of Rokko, 

named Yagino 

Towatashi. 

My hiking group is meeting 

at Hankyu Rokko at 

9:00a.m. and from there we 

will take the bus to the 

Rokko cable station. From 

there we start walking 

down towards Nada. 

Anyone who is interested in 

joining us, please let me 

know you are more than 

welcome! 

Contact CHIC for a date out 

exploring with Kayoko!

!"#$%&'$()&*+$+,&&-$&.$ 

/0102301$4)02#5'$36$,#),*37189$ 

()&*718$36$0$5#5&,0:;#$

MT. FUJI 

What to do? 

Let’s climb Mt.Fuji! 

Why Mt.Fuji 

It’s the highest mountain in Japan(3776m) It’s beautiful to look at 

from afar. But it’s not only that. It’s so rewarding to have the view 

on clear days on top of Mt.Fuji, especially the sunrise. It’s 

challenging to climb for everyone however pretty much all aged 

people are climbing from 10yrs old to 100 yrs old. It’s possible if 

you have a good guidance. 

Why in summer? 

Summer is the only season that all climbers can challenge and 

offically open between July 1 st and August 31 st , but still regarding 

to the weather. 

How is the climate? 

No snow. The weather is relatively mild. 

Are there many hikers? 

Yes, of course! 

Since you’re in Japan, popular places are all so crowded 

Equipments 

Proper clothes(winter jacket/ it gets really cold when you climb 

higher, tempeture gets below 0 often). 

Proper shoes 

Small bottles of Oxygen 

Enough Water and Food 

If you’re seriously interested in , please go to 

see the Japan Guide for further information! 

www.japanguide.com 

MASAKO 

ARIMURA 

Enjoy your Trip!

FEEDING 

THE 

MARCY FINN 

HOMELESS 

Living in Japan has provided our family with many 

incredible opportunities and experiences, such as 

traveling throughout Asia, learning about new 

cultures, tasting new cuisines and meeting 

wonderful friends. Something we did not expect, 

however, was becoming involved with a local soup 

kitchen. 

Every Saturday, volunteers from one of the local 

churches sponsors a homeless feeding at 

Onohama Park in Sannomyia. My family helps 

host one of these meals twice a year. The number 

of meals served varies, but we have provided as 

many as 200 in a day. First impressions may 

make this seem overwhelming, but it is truly more 

fun than it is work. 

Sponsoring a meal is a lot less time consuming 

than one would expect. First, we organize a group 

of people who would like to assist. These people 

can help in many different ways. People can 

choose to provide food donations, monetary 

donations and/or assist in preparing and serving 

the meal. Next, we choose a menu from the church 

recipe collection, and purchase the ingredients 

needed. All cooking equipment is provided. On the 

day of the feeding, other experienced soup kitchen 

helpers are available to help prepare and serve the 

food. 

the homeless men know exactly what needs to be 

done, so they come and help prepare the tea and 

rice. At approximately 11:45 a line will begin to 

form and you will see chopsticks and spoons being 

passed out. By approximately 12:30 all meals will 

be served and you will have an opportunity to eat 

as well. Finally, the clean-up will begin, which goes 

very quickly as those who we served all wash their 

own dishes, as well as the cooking utensils. 

Many of us with younger children are looking for 

ways to involve our families in charity work. 

Feeding the Homeless, provides that opportunity. 

No matter your age, there is a way for you to help 

at these events. Younger children can help 

package items in a bag that will contain a hard 

boiled egg, fruit and chocolates. Adults and older 

children cut and prepare food for cooking, as well 

as, help dish the meals into bowls. 

With the exception of shopping for the food 

ingredients, the whole event is over in a matter of 

three hours. Not only do we enjoy the time with our 

friends, but we leave feeling very good about 

helping those less fortunate than ourselves. 

If you would be interested in sponsoring a meal, 

please contact me at marcyfinn@gmail.com . 

The efficiency of this process is amazing. When 

we arrive at 10:00 a.m. there is a canopy and 

cooking supplies already waiting for us. Several of

SUMMER FOODS 

MASAKO ARIMURA 

Chilled fine noodles called Somen are one of the most Ibonoito is one of the most famous somen noodle 

loved summer foods in Japan. 

brands in Japan. 

Somen are thin Japanese noodles. 

Cold somen noodles are served with dipping soup and 

toppings. Mix toppings in the dipping soup and dip a 

small amount of somen noodles in the soup to eat. It's 

a popular summer meal in Japan. Our summer is so 

hot and humid that it’s easy to lose appetite. Cold 

somen noodles are so simple but tasty and also 

soothing. 

After eating it you feel cool and comfortable. That’s 

why everyone loves to eat it in summer! 

Let’s study the history of Ibonoito somen! Please go 

to the internet site as follows to find out what it is* 

http://www.ibonoito.or.jp/english/03history.html 

Also on its site, you can find the detailed information 

such as the address and access for Ibonoito Factory 

where you can visit Somennosato/Somen Village. 

It can be your one day attraction on summer holidays, 

to visit the somen museum to learn the history of it, 

and to visit the factory to see how they make somen 

and to go to the restaurant to taste how delicious it is. 

Famous somen noodle restaurants 

Actually there aren’t famous somen restaurants 

because it’s something you eat at home like every day 

in summer in Japan. However those who ‘d like to try 

it, I recommend “Somennosato/Somen Village” run 

by Ibonoito in Tatsuno City next to Himeji City about 

30min.drive from JR Himeji Station. 

At some places, people make “ Nagashi Somen” as an 

attraction of a summer festival. 

You can go to You Tube to see Nagashi Somen Video. 

Enjoy your summer with Cold Somen! 

Cheers!

FESTIVALS 

DURING THE 

SUMMER 

OSAKA 

KOBE 

KYOTO 

In Kyoto, the month of July offers people the chance to enjoy the Gion Matsuri Festival –Kyoto's 

Gion district is lit up with lanterns and becomes one of the largest festivals in Japan. The highlight is 

the Yamaboko Float Parade on July 17 th . Floats leave Shijo Karasuma at 9:00 a.m. and travel down 

Shijo-dori to Kawaramachi-dori, then to Oike-dori. To get to Shijo Karasuma take the Municipal 

Subway Line to Shijo Station. You will not be disappointed as you see the series of floats and 

people! 

For more information please contact the Gion Festival Support Association Tel: 075-561-6155 

JULY 

Sunshine Wharf Obon Matsuri 

July 23, 2011, 18:00 – 20:30 (cancelled in case of rain) 

The annual bon odori dance festival will be held at Sunshine Wharf, off route 43. Zundoko dance, 

Doraemon, Ryoma, Kawachi dance, and Ogura dance are some of the festivities planned, plus many 

stalls will be opened. 

For more information please contact: Sunshine Wharf Kobe Management office Tel: 078-414-1516

July 24 th and 25 th in Osaka, gives you the chance to experience 

the Tenjin Matsuri Festival, considered one of Japans three 

most important festivals. Tenjin Matsuri is said to be over a 

thousand years old. It is inaugurated with the Fure-Daiko Drum 

core and the portable shrine is set sail from Tenmangu Shrine to 

the port Tenjin-bashi Bridge. The evening offers a spectacular 

FESTIVALS 

fireworks display that is spectacular! 

The closest train station is: Osaka Subway Minamimorimachi 

Station / Osaka Tenmangu Station. 

For more information please see: 

http://www.osaka-info.jp/tenjin_matsuri/main_en.html 

Mid-summer Ice Festival at Mt. Rokko Country House 

July 16 th – Aug. 31 st , 2011, 11:30 - 16:00 

(cancelled in case of rain) 

This is a great spot to cool down in the middle of summer! A 20 

m 2 plot of land will be covered by snow using the Ice Making 

System (IMS) and visitors can frolic in the snow and play the 

treasure hunting game, which will be held once daily on 

weekdays at 11:30 and twice on weekends, second time at 14:00. 

For more information contact Rokko Country House 078-891-0366 

J 

U 

L 

Y 

Suma Beach Party 

Mid-July, 15:00 – 22:00 

The party is a fusion of music, food and arts. Over 

4000 people are expected to enjoy at Suma beach 

over the weekend. 

Kobe Love Port Minato 

Matsuri 

July 17 & 18, 2011, 

10:00 – 20:00 

This year is the 10 th 

commemorative anniversary 

of this summer festival. Over 

140,000 visitors crowded the 

matsuri at Meriken Park last 

year due to the high level of 

participation from 

organizations and local 

businesses, which make this 

festival a success.

F 

E 

S 

T 

I 

V 

A 

L 

S 

AUGUST 

On August 16 th , in Kyoto, there is the Gozan Fire Festival (Daimon-ji Gozan Okuribi), which sees 

five great fires lit on the hillsides that surround the city, creating magnificent displays that can be 

seen for miles. 

Thought to have originated in the Edo era the tradition has been continued to present day and 

signifies the moment when spirits of deceased family members return to the spirit world. The name 

‘Okuribi’ roughly translates to “send off fire”. The Japanese characters are created from fire at 

Daimonji, Myoho, Funagata, Hidari-daimonji and Torii-gata. 

Starting at 8 p.m. the giant bonfires are lit, each with a distinctive shape. The characters, their 

locations, meanings, and the lighting times are: 

• Daimonji (), the character meaning "large" or "great:" 

on Daimonji-Yama/Higashi-Yama, Nyoigatake at 8 p.m. 

• My!/H! (), the characters meaning "wondrous dharma" 

(referring to Buddhist teachings): on Matsugasaki, Nishi-Yama/Higashi-Yama at 8:10 p.m. 

• Funagata (), the shape of a boat: 

on Nishigamo, Funa-Yama at 8:15 p.m. 

• Hidari Daimonji (), again, the character meaning "large:" 

on Daihoku-San, Hidaridaimonji-San at 8:15 p.m. 

• Toriigata (), the shape of a torii or shrine gate: 

on Toriimoto, Mandara-San at 8:20 p.m. 

The best place to see this is at Daimonji Mountain(Nyoigatake), Sakyo-ku, which you can reach by 

taking Kyoto City Bus to "Hyakumanben" or "Kitashirakawa". 

For more information please contact the Kyoto Municipal Office for the Preservation of Cultural Properties Tel: 

075-222-4112

In Osaka, from July 30 th to August 1 st the Sumiyoshi Festival is one of the 

last summer festivals to take place. This celebration allows children and young 

geisha to carry portable shrines on a trek up to the Grand Shrine. 

Schedule: 

July 30 - Aug 1 

July 30/ 20:00- (Yoimiya-sai Festival) 

July 31/ 17:00- (Nagoshi-harai-shinji ritual) 

Aug. 1: around 14:00-(Togyo mikoshi parade) 

The features of Sumiyoshi Festival in Osaka include: 

• Nagoshi Ohharai (purification in summer) with the participation of Nagoshi 

girls from Imazato-shinchi, children and citizens is an essential part of this 

festival 

• After the holy spirits are transferred to the mikoshi portable shrine and 

Horen palanquin, Togyo Matsuri, a procession to Shukuin Tongu (Angu) in 

Sakai, takes place. 

FESTIVALS 

• As the mikoshi reaches Shukuin a ceremony is conducted. Aranigo-no- 

Ohharai is conducted at Iigaibori, as with Nagoshi Ohharai. 

• Traditionally participants walk through a "magic grass ring" and emerge 

purified. 

The procession runs through the streets of Osaka and heads to Sakai City 

where a traditional ceremony takes place. Sumiyoshi Taisha is located in 

southern Osaka, a few steps from Sumiyoshi Taisha Station on the Nankai 

Main Line. From Nankai Namba Station, the train ride takes less than 10 

minutes by local train. Please note that faster train categories do not stop at 

Sumiyoshi Taisha Station. The shrine can also be reached by the Hankai 

Tramway. 

For more information please see: 

http://www.osaka-info.jp/en/search/detail/event_35.html 

A 

U 

G 

U 

S 

T 

Takarazuka Fireworks display 

About Four thousand fireworks are released in two days at the Mukogawa kanko dam 

(Takarazuka city). A subject of this year is "performance of art with competition of 

fireworks display blooming in your mind: one thousand purple and ten thousand 

crimson”. In case of rain or the rise of water it will be put off. 

For more information please contact: Takarazuka General Sightseeing Center Tel: 0797-77-2012

Sanda Festival And Fireworks display 

Aug. 6th 2011, 20:00 – 20:30 

About two thousand five hundred fireworks are shot off Mukogawa riverbed (Sanda 

city). Sanda Festival, general dance competition, “fureai” market, and the town 

parade, is held at 8: 00 p.m. 

For more information please contact Sanda Festival executive committee 

Tel: 0795-59-5087 

Awajishima Festival And Fireworks display 

Aug. 5 th – 7 th , 2011 

(firework display on 7 th only) 

20:00 - 21:00 

About five thousand fireworks are set off Kaigan-dori 1, 

Ohama koen (Sumoto city). All fireworks display shells to be 

set off are made in Japan. Unique Starmines to be set off 

coming from the sea is a must-see. At the climax, a 

chrysanthemum shape fireworks display is seen called "A 

flower bed of great chrysanthemum". A firework display which 

appears like gold and silver waterfalls pouring into Sumoto 

port is called "Huge falls" A good little-known viewing spot is 

the top of Mt. Mikuma. In case of rain it will be put off at 

Aug.4th 

For more information please contact: Awajishima Festival executive 

committee: Tel: 0779-22-2571 

AUGUST 

IN 

JAPAN

Minato Kobe Fireworks festival 

August 7, 2011, 19:30 – 20:20 

As the last rays of the setting sun illuminate Port Tower and the Kobe 

Port, the first fireworks are shot out to the sky at the Minato Kobe 

Fireworks Festival in Hyogo. Then, when you think it can’t get more 

fascinating, the final kick arrives: an incredible rapid series of underwater 

explosions, the so-called ‘Star Mine’, will prove you that you didn’t know 

anything about fireworks before. The sounds of music in the background 

will make the sight and the experience truly unforgettable. Many voted the 

event one of the best night views of Japan. Although this is difficult to 

judge given the fact that Japan is the country with probably the most 

fireworks displays in the world, one thing is sure: if you appreciate visual 

pleasures, Hyogo is the place for you! 

FESTIVALS 

Suma Ryukyu Park Rainbow Light Up 

April 29 th – Aug. 31 st , 2011, 

9:00 - 20:00 

Ever since this park was held open until late, from sunset until closing, visitors can enjoy the 

rainbow light up of the fountains around this vast park. On the weekends in the summer, special 

events have been planned. And until June 29 th , 180 different species of roses, all named after 

royalty, can be enjoyed in the Rose Garden. Concerts, gardening schools, flower arrangement 

classes are also held. 

For more information please contact Kobe City Suma Ryukyu Park Tel: 078-732-6688

Al Fresco 

Dining in 

Kobe 

One way to enjoy the beautiful Kobe weather is by 

having a meal with family and friends at an open patio 

restaurant. There are several around town and here are 

some suggestions. 

Korean Cuisine Jyapuche 

http://www.ko-z.com/japuche/ 

http://r.gnavi.co.jp/k130402/lang/en/ 

LOUPE TOR EASTF, Shimoyamate dori 2-12, Chuo-ku, 

Kobe (Up the small street on the left of Don Kihote, near Tokyu 

Hands) Open from 5 p.m. – midnight. 

Tel: 078-321-3340 

This restaurant holds a table for 12 on the terrace plus a 

private party room to seat 40 guests, 10 counter seats, 

and 4 tables indoors. The menu includes a platter of 

assorted kimchi, cream cheese and chanja ganache, 

fresh spring rolls, yam salad with ume dressing, octopus 

and Korean nori omelet, a variety of beef dishes, 

pumpkin and cheese fried spring rolls, spring onion 

pancakes, Korean sushi roll with mayonnaise sauce. 

The average price of meal here costs ¥3000. 

Laputa the Flanders Tale 

http://r.gnavi.co.jp/c350315/lang/en/ 

Progres Kobe 8 th floor, Isogami dori 7-chome 1-19, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Behind Sogo department store) 

Tel: 078-414-7508 

Open for Lunch 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., dinner from 5 p.m. – 

midnight. 

Jayshree Ramani 

Here, seating is available for 40 diners on the terrace 

and 60 diners indoors. Lunch sets start from ¥890 – 

¥1,290. A la carte dishes can be ordered too – salads, 

seafood carpaccio, assortments of fritters, and Belgian 

dishes, cocotte, fresh pasta, gratins, pizzas, rice dishes, 

and dessert. The average cost for dinner is about 3,500. 

English menu and English-speaking staff available. 

Little Shanghai 

http://www.little-shanghai.com/ 

http://r.gnavi.co.jp/ka2f800/lang/en/ 

Shimoyamate dori 1-3-5, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Walk up Higashimon Street from the south and the restaurant is half 

way up the street on the left side, after Gessekai) 

Tel: 078-333-8428 

Open 5 p.m. – 11 p.m. (midnight on Friday & Saturday) 

Dishes include chili shrimp with mayonnaise, steamed 

gyoza, minced pork wrapped in lettuce, Chinese beef 

stew, balsamic pork & vegetable stir-fry, fried noodles 

and desserts. An average meal can cost about ¥3,500. 

Chada Thai 

http://www.chada-thai.jp/ 

Nakayamate dori 1-27-12, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Up the one-way street from Nishimura coffee near St. Michaels) 

Tel: 050-5831-0220 

Open from 11:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. for lunch, and 5 p.m. – 

11 p.m. for dinner. 

Lunch sets start from ¥980 and include dishes like tom 

yam ramen, coconut curry noodles, beef with basil stirfry, 

green or red curry, and pineapple fried rice. For 

dinner, patrons can choose fish with tom yam soup, Thai 

sausages on skewers, spicy pork with lemon grass 

salad, minced pork and shrimp spring rolls, soft-shell 

crab curry, and tapioca with coconut milk for dessert. 

The average cost for lunch is ¥1,000 and ¥3,000 for 

dinner.

TRINITY Resurrect Garden 

http://www.pd-trinity.com/cgi-bin/trinity/siteup.cgi? 

category=1&page=1 


MRSX building 3 rd floor, Sakaemachi dori 1-2-1, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Diagonally south from Daimaru, next to Starbucks) 

Tel: 050-5831-2179 

Open from 11:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. Closed on Mondays. 

Lunch sets (with soup, salad, rice or bread &drink) 

include hamburger set, omelet rice, pasta set, pork 

cutlet, chicken with balsamic sauce, or a “fusion” lunch. 

Dinner includes a variety of pastas, gnocchi, risotto, fish 

and beef dishes. Make sure to leave room for their 

delicious desserts. The average cost for lunch is ¥1,000 

and ¥2,500 for dinner. 

TOOTHTOOTH GARDEN RESTAURANT 

http://www.toothtooth.com/dining.html 


Kobe Kokusai Kaikan 11 th floor, 8-1-6 Gokoudori, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Next to Sogo Department store) 

Tel: 078-230-3412 Open from 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. 

For lunch, patrons can enjoy a choice of lunch sets, 

including soup or salad, bread or rice and a drink. For 

dinner, they serve smoked chicken with salad, oysters 

and salmon stewed in cabbage with a cream sauce, 

steamed cod with vegetables, roast lamb, and 

charcoaled grilled beef, plus a variety of scrumptious 

desserts. The average cost for lunch is ¥1,000 and 

¥3,900 for dinner. 

Bistro Cafe de Paris 

http://www.cafe-de-paris.jp/ 

1-7-21 Yamamoto dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Diagonally south of Starbucks in Kitano-cho) 

Tel: 078-241-9448 

Open from 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. weekdays/ 9 p.m. 

weekends. Lunch sets are from ¥1,575 and include 

soup, salad, bread and tea/coffee. For the main course, 

diners can choose a meat or fish entrée, pizza or pasta 

dish. For dinner, they serve grilled bass with herb 

sauce, roast red snapper with a red wine sauce, roast 

duck in orange sauce, roasted lamb in grilled mustard 

and steamed pork with white beans. Of course, there is 

a delicious choice of desserts served as well. 

HE mid DINER 

This establishment has a capacity of 12 seats out on the 

terrace, 24 seats at the tables and 9 at the counter. 

They serve a variety of sandwiches and pasta, plus 

dessert. The average cost for lunch is about ¥1,000 and 

¥2,000 for dinner. 

Grande Maison GRACIANI KOBE KITANO 

http://www.graciani-kobe.jp/espace/terrasse.html 

4-8-1 Kitano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Walk east from Kobe Club, against the traffic of the one-way street. 

The restaurant is on the left side of the street) 

Tel: 078-262-6650 

Open for from 11:30 a.m. – 11 p.m. and is closed on 

Mondays. If you are looking for an elegant place to 

dine, this French restaurant is it. They have 3 lunch 

courses for ¥3,900, ¥6500 and ¥10,000. Their dinner 

courses are ¥10,000, ¥12,000, and ¥15,000. Patrons 

can enjoy sitting at their bar with a glass of wine at this 

classy establishment. 

Plasir Restaurant at Hotel Kitano Rokkoso 

http://www.rokkoso.com/restaurant/r_plaisir.html 

1-1-14 Kitano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

Tel: 078-241-9150 / 078-241-2451 

Open from 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. 

At this hotel, they have weekly lunch sets of ¥1,000, 

¥1,500, ¥2,500, and ¥3,500. Dinner course start from 

¥1,800, ¥2,500, ¥3,800 and ¥5,000. Depending on 

one’s appetite, there is a wide selection of meal 

choices, which can be made. This stylish hotel is a 

popular place for Kobe weddings. 

Café Terrasse de Paris 

http://www.terrasse-de-paris.jp/ 


Foreigner's house club 3F, 4-9-2, Kitano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Walk eastwards from Kobe Club, against the traffic on one-way 

street. The restaurant is on the left side.) 

Tel: 078-252-1113 

Open for lunch, Wednesday - Sunday 11:30- 3:00, 

dinner 5 p.m. - 10 p.m., Tuesdays from 5 p.m. only. 

Closed on Mondays. This restaurant is a branch of 

Café de Paris in Kitano-cho, run by the same French 

owner who can speak English. Lunch sets start from 

¥1,500 and an a la carte menu is available for dinner, 

serving meat, pastas, pizzas, risotto, and stews. Café 

sets can also be ordered for ¥900. 

http://www.mid-kobe.jp/ 

2-17-2 Shimoyamate dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Across the main entrance of Ikuta Jinja car park) 

Tel: 078-321-4123 Open 24 hours

Pizzeria Tana Forno 

http://tana.ecoweb.jp/piz.html 


Takagi Building 1F, 4-3-14, Kano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Walk right, behind the McDonalds at Hankyu Sannomiya) 

Tel: 078-331-1631 

Open for lunch 11:30-15:00 and dinner 17:00-23:30 

A choice of pasta, soup or salad, focaccia and drink set 

is available for ¥1,050 and a pizza set with soup or 

salad and drink is for ¥1,680. A selection of appetizers, 

pastas and a wide variety of pizzas is served for dinner. 

Average cost for lunch is ¥1,500 and ¥3,000 for dinner. 

Pasta lunch sets are available from ¥1000 and various 

fish, meat, pasta, and pizza dishes can be ordered for 

dinner. English is spoken here but not very well. 

Caffera 

http://www.ufs.co.jp/brand/cfr/index.html 

Daimaru 1 st floor, Akashimachi 40, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Outside the northeast entrance to Daimaru department store) 

Tel: 078-392-7227 Open from 9:45 a.m. – 9 p.m. 

Patrons can enjoy a wide variety of coffees, 

cappuccinos, café lattes and desserts while peoplewatching 

at this café. 

Alo Aro 

http://aloaro.net/ 


3-13-3 Kano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

Tel: 078-230-7388 

Open from 11:30 a.m. – midnight. Closed on Mondays & 

Tuesdays. 

This little café serves healthy meals with lots of veggies 

on their pasta, pizzas, sandwiches and salads. It’s a 

nice place to have a cup of coffee with a friend as well. 

Average cost of lunch is ¥1,000 and ¥3,000 for dinner. 

Mother Moon Café – Rokko Branch 

http://www.mothermoon.co.jp/rokko/ 


Southern Mall 2 nd floor, 1-2-1, Minamicho, Shinzaike, Nada-ku, Kobe 

(On route 43 to the right, two traffic signals before turning for the 

Rokko Island bridge.) 

Tel: 078-846-0730 Open from 11 a.m. – midnight. 

Besides the usual menu for lunch and dinner, this place 

with a sun deck can be reserved for a barbecue party 

with friends up to 20 people. The food plan includes all 

you can drink for 90-minutes, caesar salad, spare ribs, 

chicken, beef, grilled vegetables with camembert 

cheese sauce, and burgers for ¥5,000. For an additional 

¥1,500 per person, seafood can be added too. 

Garden Café Astarté 

http://www.astarte-kobe.jp/ 


Toshin Bldg. 3 rd floor, 2-21-3 Nakayamate dori, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(On the main road from St. Michael school, eastward) 

Tel: 078-222-8807 

Open from 11:30 a.m. – 15:00 for lunch, and 6 p.m. to 

midnight for dinner. Closed on Wednesdays. 

Café Terrace & Bistro Bar Mark Place 

http://www.trusty.jp/kobe/event_plan/food/index.html 

63, Naniwamachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(2 nd floor of Hotel Trusty, two streets eastward & parallel to Daimaru.) 


The café is perfectly designed to enjoy a relaxed lunch, 

teatime or a garden party in the shower of sunlight and 

bright greenery. At the bistro bar, you can enjoy modern 

bistro dishes arranged from the good old western-style 

dishes, surrounded by modern interior furniture, in an 

atmosphere like the living room of your house. A 

breakfast buffet served until 11 a.m. costs ¥1,575 + 10% 

service charge. Or opt for the breakfast set for ¥1,050 

(tax included). Lunch sets start from ¥1,500 up to 

¥3,500 + 10% tax and is served until 2:30 p.m. A la carte 

options and course sets are available for dinner, which 

is served until 9:30 p.m., and patrons can stay on until 

11 p.m. to enjoy the bar. 

Naniwa machi 64, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

Bar & Bistro 64 

http://www.kobe64.com/ 

(Two streets eastward & parallel to Daimaru, next to Trusty Hotel.) 

Tel: 078-321-6411 Open from 11 a.m. – midnight 

Lunch sets are from ¥1,050 – ¥1,575 and include soup 

or salad, all-you-can eat bread bar, and a drink. Meat, 

seafood and pastas can be ordered a la carte for dinner. 

There is also a bar counter and dessert tray for diners to 

enjoy as well.

Central 

http://cafe-restaurant-central.com/central.html 

104 Edomachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Four streets eastward and south from Daimaru) 


The lunch sets includes a wide array of delicious 

breads, from ¥1,200. A la carte and seasonal courses 

are available for dinner from ¥1,500. This restaurant is 

very nearby the re-entry office so if you have time to 

spare while waiting, it’s great place to catch a bite. 

Maya Terrace 

http://www.mayaterrace.jp/index.html 

Maya-san mach 2-2, Nada-ku, Kobe 

(Take the Maya ropeway, all the way to the last stop.) 

Tel: 078-805-0202 

Open from 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. (11 p.m. on weekends). 

Closed on Tuesdays and for dinner on 1 st & 3 rd 

Mondays. The view from this spot is known as the “Ten 

Million Dollar” view and one of the top 3 scenic locations 

in Japan. Because of this, it is highly recommended that 

reservations are made before visiting this French 

restaurant. 

Real Dining Café 

http://www.kobe-mosaic.co.jp/floorguide/dining/ 

world_dinning/2f-32.html 

Mosaic 2 nd floor, 1-6-1 Higashi Kawasakimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe 

(Take the JR train to Kobe station or the Kobe subway line to 

Harborland station.) 

Tel: 078-360-1358 Open from 11 a.m. – 11: 30 p.m. 

A popular restaurant for diners on the weekends; a 

choice of salads, pastas and pizzas and of course, 

dessert is on the menu. The view of Meriken Oriental 

Hotel, cruise boats and boardwalk performers can be 

enjoyed from here. 

Sannomiya Terminal Hotel Beer Garden 

http://rsv.ihonex.com/cgi-bin/webmainte3/hotels/ 

wjrsannomiya/display_free.cgi? 

cat=free&session=130568557616505&No=0073&hid=wj 

rsannomiya&preview=1 

Inside JR Sannomiya Station on the 12 th floor. 

Tel: 078-222-6757 Open from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. 

All you can eat and drink for ¥3,200 for women and 

¥3,500 for men for 2.5 hours. 

Café the Terrace 

http://www.cafetheterrace.com/ 

4-14 Yumotomachi, Nishinomiya 

(Take the Hankyu train to Koyoen station, switching at Shukugawa. 

From here, it is about a 15-minute drive north.) 


This is a gorgeous location to enjoy the mountains of 

Kobe, especially in the fall and springtime. Patrons can 

take in the beautiful scenery from the terrace of this 

restaurant. Diners can have the roast beef, deep-fried 

shrimp, salads and sandwiches for lunch and dinner. 

Visitors can come by for a quiet cup of tea and dessert 

as well. 

Feel Dining Café & Sea 

9-5 Koyocho Naka, Higashinada-ku, Kobe 

(Take the Rokkoliner to Marine Park station and walk about 7 

minutes, south and east, towards the waterfront.) 

Tel: 078-846-0205 Open from 11 a.m. – 9: 30 p.m. 

A wonderful spot right up on the waterfront of Rokko 

Island. A selection of appetizers and main meals are 

served for both lunch and dinner. 

Green Hill Hotel Beer Garden 

(Up the street from Kobe YMCA) 

Tel: 078-222-0909 Open from 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. 

The cost is ¥3,500 per person. 

Seaside Beer Terrace 

Meriken Park Oriental Hotel, 3 rd floor. 

http://www.kobe-orientalhotel.co.jp/beerterrace/ 

Tel: 0120-59-8112 

Open from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays & 5 p.m. – 

8:30 p.m on weekends, June 24 th – September 5 th . 

It costs ¥2,500 for adults and ¥1,000 for children for 90 

minutes. Guests can order from a menu of 100 drinks, 

enjoy finger food and free pineapple. Side dishes start 

from ¥500 and include fried chicken, French friends, 

sausage with Camembert cheese, and beefsteak.

Sogo Sky Beer Garden 

http://www2.sogo-gogo.com/wsc/515/N000038962/0/ 

info_d 

Tel: 078-221-4181 

Open from 5 p.m. – 9: 30 p.m., May 12 th to September 

22 nd . 

Cost ¥3,500 for men and ¥3,000 for women, which 

includes an all-you-can-eat buffet for 2 hours. It is ¥500 

cheaper for those over 60 years of age on Mondays and 

on Tuesdays is Ladies Day (¥2,500) 

Hotel Okura Beer Garden 

http://www.kobe.hotelokura.co.jp/event/beer.html 

Tel: 078-333-3533 

Open from 5:30 p.m. – 9 p.m., July 1 st – September 18 th 

Three different all-you-can-drink plans, starting from 

¥2,000. 

Kobe Portopia Hotel Beer Garden 

Sky Lounge Plein d’Etoiles, 30 th floor. 

Tel: 078-302-1122 

5-9 PM (2 Hour Limit) Last Food Order 8p.m.; Last Drink 

Order 9p.m. ¥3,500 per person; ¥3,000 for prepaid 

tickets 

JAYSHREE 

RAMANI 

ANA Crowne Plaza Summer Beer Garden 

http://www.anacrowneplaza-kobe.jp/topics/event/ 

summerbeergarden2011.html 

Tel: 0120-75-4160 

Open from 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. on weekdays & 5 p.m. – 10 

p.m. on weekends, June 16 th to September 30 th at the 

Garden Terrace on the 30 th floor. ¥2,500 per person for 

all you can eat and drink for 2 hours.

UJI TEA TOUR NINJA VILLAGE KYOTO WITH SUZANNE 

NARA SECRET GARDENS 

KITANO TENMANGU 

OSAKA CASTLE 

WINTER / 

SPRING 2011 

TRIPS

FALL 2011 

with 

CHIC 

FALL 2011 HIGHLIGHTS 

It’s an exciting time ahead as Fall 2011 promises to be a packed program that appeals to everyone! We 

have a Newcomer’s Welcome Lunch, the Fall Fling, our famous Holiday Bazaar, the highly popular 

Shichi-go-San, in addition to our regular classes, like Shodo, Japanese Language and Ikebana. There 

will also be something new the Fall with the Photography Show as well as the Shodo Exhibition both held 

in November in the CHIC Banquet Hall! Plus we are offering new classes, that includes the craft of 

Temari and the Halloween Costume Making class which we hope is something of interest those who like 

to be hands-on! 

Fall is a great time to see the fall leaves changing their colors and enjoy the cool breezes that the 

changing season offers and we have some fantastic trips that we know will be of interest to everyone. 

We look forward to seeing you again in the Fall, and hope that you have a great Summer! 

HIGHLIGHTS TRIPS ACTIVITIES CLASSES 

Koyason 

Japanese Language 

Shichi-Go-San 

Holiday Bazaar 

Shodo Exhibition 

Photgraphy Show 

Ramen Tour 

Naramachi 

Kitano with KWC 

Mt. Maya 

Plus More... 

Fall Fling 

Flea Market 

Knife Talk 

Shiatsu Massage 

Reflexology 

French Language 

Washi Tea Box 

Tamari 

American 

Thanksgiving Feast 

Christmas Home Tour

CHIC_Chat_files/CHIC Chat Summer 2011.pdf

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