12: Sayonara to Japan...Random Wanderings in Kobe

Coming into the Port of Kobe, Japan

Our last day in Kobe, Japan was one of leisure. Both Gary and I felt very satisfied with our visit to Nara, and decided take it easy, eat some good food, and maybe do a little shopping.

From where our ship was docked, we took a 5 minute tram ride into Sannomiya, Kobe. The Japanese pronounce it so endearingly (to my ear...), drawing out the first syllable, and the third...Saaa-no-mee-yah.

Walking around, we observed the young people in video arcades and photo booths. We had learned from Harumi, that these were very special photo booths - not only do they take your picture, but they also instantly transform your features so that you have giant eyes!

Directly across the street I noticed a line forming at a restaurant. It was about 11:45am. I had noticed the line day before as well, and wondered if it might be a place to sample the fabled Kobe beef.  We were ready for an early lunch, so we walked over. Immediately, the line started growing, and there were at least 20 people behind us. We were seated at noon, and ordered the Kobe. It was cooked on a grill right in front of us, and wow.... it definitely ranks as one of the most memorable meals we have ever had.

I'll close our short week in Japan (3 days in Yokohama, 2 days at sea, and 3 days in Kobe), with a few random photographs, and the acknowledgment that it is impossible for me to do justice here to the rich culture of Japan, or really, any country we visit on this trip.

In another two days, we will be in Shanghai.

Wooden tools for making Japanese sweets - the triangular prisms were exactly the size of architectural scales

An unknown (to us) Japanese performer who seemed to be well loved.
We happened to wander into a temple where people were gathering, and were treated to her singing and dancing.

When the performance included a Japanese version of the Village People's "YMCA",
she was able to get the crowd to happily join in...

Beautiful young women in traditional dress...but we didn't have a clue as to why they were part of the show...

These women were part of a group who serenaded the assembled crowd with traditional instruments.

On of our other lunches....Japanese "pizza" and grilled prawns.

Japanese Department Stores are a bit like the famed London stores - Harrods and Sefridges - they have multiple levels and include a grocery store and also a sumptuous prepared foods level. It was a treat just to stroll through and see all the local and international offerings.