TID Travel Journal "Akashi - West Kobe"   By TID, Summer 2004 update

Antique Market in Sumadera Temple

When the sun comes out, it is worth taking a trip up Rokko Mountain for the breathtaking views over Kobe city. Mount Rokko Farm is a quaint little place to visit to see Japanese alpine farming and try some local cheese or ice-cream, while getting friendly with the sheep.
15 minute-walk to the North from JR Suma station. Sumadera temple was built in 866. There are many historic spots of Heike clan that is famous in connection with Ichinotani battle, and cultural assets preserved in the temple. On the first Sunday of every month except January, there is an antique market in the temple. More than 30 dealers exhibit antique collections such as china, furniture, Kimono, toys and rare items such as record players (phonograph). One item that I saw was a commercial toy made by a famous Japanese electric industrial company 27 years ago. Amazingly, it was still a good condition. Dealers are very friendly and have full knowledge of antiques. You may find your favorite items with good prices. You would better go early in the morning to get a lucky find.

Market Open:	7:00am - 4:00pm 7:00am - 3:00pm(November and December)
Address:	Sumaderacho, Suma-ku, Kobe
Tel:	078-731-0416

Azur Maiko / Okura Beach

Azur Maiko is situated in Kobe city, 10 minute-walk from JR Maiko station.
Okura beach is situated in Akashi city, 5 minute-walk from JR Asagiri station. It is a park for locals to walk, jog, whatever they like. You will see some people, fishing and playing "Shogi", Japanese chess, in the park.
Both parks are the best view point of Akashi kaikyo suspension bridge and Awaji Island. It is also the best view point of sunset. Sunlight reflects in the ocean at sunset, making a picturesque view with the bridge. It is definitely beautiful when the weather is nice.
Both parks have the beach but they are under construction this summer. It does not spoil a beautiful ocean view. The beach will be restored to its former condition.

Marine Pia Kobe

10 minute-walk from JR Tarumi station. There are outlet shopping mall and restaurants in the area, located in the east side of Azur Maiko.
You will find discounted cloths, general goods, and famous brand of sneakers such as NIKE. They are mostly good quality and fine selections. There are also children cloths and goods such as LEGO products in the mall.
It will be a fun day trip to the mall, and shop ‘till you drop!

Open:	10:00am-8:00pm (Restaurants are open from 11:00am to 10:00pm)
Closed:	September 8 (Please make sure the date after September 8)
Address:	12-2 Kaigandori, Tarumi-ku, Kobe
Tel:	078-709-4466

-Akashi city- Uontana

Uontana is situated in Akashi city, 3 minute-walk to the south from JR Akashi station.
This lively shopping street is known as fish markets.
Varieties of seasonal fresh fishes caught every morning and past noon are on the shelves. Fresh octopuses and shrimps are still alive.
You might taste some pieces of raw or cooked fishes.
There are not only fish shops, but also dried seafood shops, Japanese tea shops, vegetable shops, and so on.
Around the street, it is nice to stroll about the town to explore Japanese old style shops and buildings.

Open:	about 8:00am – 6:00pm
Closed:	Thursday (some shops open everyday)
Tel:	078-911-9666