Kobe is surrounded by mountains. The city is nestled into the area between the sea and mountains. I believe it is famous for its beef and sake production. I will let you check these out as I don’t like sake and I already know how tender the meat is. Don’t you remember, we tried Kobe beef skewers when we were here last time. You loved it!
Today’s adventure is going up a cable car in the mountains. It is called Nunobiki Ropeway.
At the top of the mountain, there is a beautiful herb and flower garden. It is designed to fill your senses. Did you enjoy the fragrance? I did every where you look are banks of flowers and both common and unusual herbs.
These gardens have so many areas to relax in, have a snack ( two restaurants and a kiosk),hammocks to catch a nap and enjoy the plants. It’s hard to decide where to go first
The view of the city. Wasn’t it good that we started from the top. I don’t think I could climb the mountain. It is certainly steep.
When we returned to the ship ….coffee was a necessity. Near the terminal are recreational areas with sculptures. We also watched the maritime training ship sail.
Some fun signs
Look your favourite, a maritime museum and it’s open. Wow the detail of the models is amazing. I like the changing pictures behind the ship.
Time to return to the ship. More coffee and a rest. Kochi tomorrow.
Today is the day you get to eat lots of interesting food and gain a look at some historical areas. Now I know most of you have heard the story of my first experience of Japanese food. I thought that delicious green mixture sitting on the plate ready to add to your food was avocado. It wasn’t and I still have not acquired the taste for wasabi
Imagine being forced to settle here with no resources. That was the fate of a defeated army following an ancient civil war.. They were forced into the valley and to live communally ( not accepted in Japanese culture) until houses were built. They could only use available materials. It took 3 years to complete the first house. The houses are made of wood with internal walls and doors being made from paper. Silk production and farming supported the community. Farming is still important but tourism is now the main source of income.
Bed! Kyoto tomorrow.
The concept is to create a space for meditation in harmony with nature. It certainly is a peaceful oasis in a crowded city.
You can pray to the ancient trees if you wish…….. Just throw a coin, clap twice so the goddess knows you are there, say your prayer and bow…..tree hugging is not a thing here….just a respect for the living spirit.
Next a Buddhist temple. I said there were no favourites. This temple is a reconstruction and only the gate is original. It is pouring……are we being showered with blessings😀🤣😂?
The grounds are magnificent but I think we will miss exploring them today. 
