Nankinmachi (Kobe's Chinatown)

Kobe's Chinatown, known as Nankinmachi, is the most authentic and lively of Japan's three Chinatowns (along with Yokohama and Nagasaki), with more than a hundred street-food stalls, restaurants and specialised shops across three blocks of the Chuo-ku district. Kobe's Chinese community has historic roots of more than 150 years, since the port opened to international trade, and its gastronomic influence permeates the whole city. In the district you will find steamed pork buns (nikuman), fried gyoza, stir-fried rice noodles, dim sum and black-sesame desserts. The best way to visit it is by going from stall to stall with small portions for 300-800 ¥ each. The district is especially lively during the Chinese New Year celebrations (January-February), when lanterns are put up and dragon-dance performances are held. Strolling is free. It is a ten-minute walk from JR Motomachi station or from Sannomiya. It generally opens from 10:00 to 21:00.