Kobe

๐Ÿ“–

Essential Reading for Daily Life

Tips on reading basic Japanese materials, including menus, maps, and forms encountered in Kobe.

Sections

1. Language Learning Resources

Language is the key to adapting to life in Kobe. These resources will help you learn Japanese and understand the local dialect (Kansai-ben), which is widely spoken in Kobe.

a. General Japanese Language Textbooks

  • Genki I & II: An Integrated Course in Elementary Japanese

    • Relevance: Ideal for beginners to intermediate learners. Covers grammar, vocabulary, and cultural notes.
    • Cost: ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ3,500 per book.
    • Where to Buy:
      • Junku-do Bookstore (Kobe): A large bookstore in Sannomiya with a dedicated section for language learners.
      • Online: Amazon Japan or Kinokuniya.
    • Considerations: These books are widely used in language schools and come with CDs or online audio resources.

  • Minna no Nihongo (ใฟใ‚“ใชใฎๆ—ฅๆœฌ่ชž)

    • Relevance: Another popular series for beginners, but requires a separate translation guide for English speakers.
    • Cost: ยฅ2,500โ€“ยฅ3,000 per book.
    • Where to Buy: Same as above.
    • Considerations: Focuses on practical, conversational Japanese.

b. Kansai Dialect (Kansai-ben) Guides

  • Kansai Japanese: The Language of Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe
    • Relevance: Helps you understand and use the Kansai dialect, which is common in Kobe.
    • Cost: ยฅ1,500โ€“ยฅ2,000.
    • Where to Buy: Junku-do or online.
    • Considerations: Learning Kansai-ben will help you connect with locals and understand regional humor.

c. Apps and Digital Resources

  • WaniKani: For learning kanji effectively.
  • BunPro: For grammar practice.
  • Cost: ยฅ1,000โ€“ยฅ1,500 per month for premium versions.
  • Where to Access: Online subscriptions.

2. Cultural Reference Books

Understanding Japanese culture and Kobeโ€™s unique identity is crucial for adapting to life in the city.

a. General Japanese Culture

  • "A Geek in Japan" by Hector Garcia

    • Relevance: A beginner-friendly introduction to Japanese culture, traditions, and daily life.
    • Cost: ยฅ1,500โ€“ยฅ2,000.
    • Where to Buy: Junku-do, Kinokuniya, or online.
    • Considerations: Covers a broad range of topics, including etiquette and social norms.

  • "The Japanese Mind: Understanding Contemporary Japanese Culture" by Roger J. Davies

    • Relevance: A deeper dive into cultural concepts like "wa" (harmony) and "tatemae" (public behavior).
    • Cost: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ2,500.
    • Where to Buy: Same as above.
    • Considerations: Useful for understanding the cultural nuances of Kobeโ€™s residents.

b. Kobe-Specific Culture

  • "Kobe: A City Reborn" by Jeffrey E. Hanes

    • Relevance: Explores Kobeโ€™s history, including its recovery from the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake.
    • Cost: ยฅ2,500โ€“ยฅ3,000.
    • Where to Buy: Junku-do or online.
    • Considerations: Provides insight into Kobeโ€™s resilience and modern identity.

  • Local Magazines and Guides

    • Kobe Walker (็ฅžๆˆธใ‚ฆใ‚ฉใƒผใ‚ซใƒผ): A Japanese-language magazine featuring local events, restaurants, and attractions.
    • Cost: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ800 per issue.
    • Where to Buy: Convenience stores, bookstores, or train station kiosks.
    • Considerations: Great for staying updated on Kobeโ€™s happenings.

3. Practical Living Guides

These resources will help you navigate daily life, from transportation to shopping and healthcare.

a. General Living in Japan

  • "Living in Japan" by Joy Norton and Tuttle Publishing

    • Relevance: Covers practical topics like housing, healthcare, and transportation.
    • Cost: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ2,500.
    • Where to Buy: Junku-do or online.
    • Considerations: Aimed at expatriates and long-term residents.

  • "Japan: A Practical Guide to Living and Working" by Charles D. McConnell

    • Relevance: Focuses on adapting to Japanese work culture and daily life.
    • Cost: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ3,000.
    • Where to Buy: Same as above.
    • Considerations: Includes tips on navigating bureaucracy.

b. Kobe-Specific Guides

  • Kobe City Official Guidebook (English Version)

    • Relevance: Published by the Kobe City Government, this free guide covers essential services, transportation, and local tips.
    • Cost: Free.
    • Where to Obtain: Kobe City Hall, tourist information centers, or download from the official Kobe City website.
    • Considerations: A must-have for newcomers.

  • Hyogo International Association Publications

    • Relevance: Offers guides for foreign residents, including multilingual resources on healthcare, disaster preparedness, and legal matters.
    • Cost: Free.
    • Where to Obtain: Hyogo International Association (HIA) office in Kobe or their website.

4. Food and Dining Guides

Kobe is famous for its food, especially Kobe beef and its vibrant cafรฉ culture.

  • "Washoku: Recipes from the Japanese Home Kitchen" by Elizabeth Andoh

    • Relevance: Learn to cook Japanese dishes at home, including ingredients commonly found in Kobe.
    • Cost: ยฅ3,000โ€“ยฅ4,000.
    • Where to Buy: Junku-do or online.
    • Considerations: Great for adapting to local eating habits.

  • Local Restaurant Guides

    • Tabelog (้ฃŸในใƒญใ‚ฐ): A Japanese website and app for restaurant reviews and rankings.
    • Cost: Free to access.
    • Where to Access: Online or via the app.
    • Considerations: Use Google Translate if youโ€™re not fluent in Japanese.

5. Disaster Preparedness Resources

Kobeโ€™s history with earthquakes makes disaster preparedness essential.

  • "Disaster Preparedness Handbook" by Arthur T. Bradley

    • Relevance: General tips for preparing for emergencies, including earthquakes.
    • Cost: ยฅ2,000โ€“ยฅ3,000.
    • Where to Buy: Junku-do or online.
    • Considerations: Pair this with local resources for Kobe-specific advice.

  • Kobe City Disaster Preparedness Guide

    • Relevance: Multilingual guide with evacuation maps and emergency procedures.
    • Cost: Free.
    • Where to Obtain: Kobe City Hall or download from the official website.

6. Where to Buy Books in Kobe

  • Junku-do Bookstore (ใ‚ธใƒฅใƒณใ‚ฏๅ ‚ๆ›ธๅบ—)

    • Location: Sannomiya, Kobe.
    • Features: Extensive selection of English and Japanese books, including language guides and cultural references.

  • Kinokuniya

    • Location: Umeda (Osaka, nearby Kobe).
    • Features: Large selection of English-language books.

  • Secondhand Bookstores

    • Book Off (ใƒ–ใƒƒใ‚ฏใ‚ชใƒ•): Affordable secondhand books, including language guides and novels.
    • Cost: ยฅ500โ€“ยฅ1,500.

  • Online Retailers

    • Amazon Japan (www.amazon.co.jp)
    • Kinokuniya Online (www.kinokuniya.co.jp)

Final Considerations

  • Language Barrier: Many resources are in Japanese, so prioritize bilingual or English-language materials if youโ€™re not fluent.
  • Local Libraries: Kobe City libraries often have English-language sections and free access to cultural and practical guides.
  • Community Centers: Visit international community centers in Kobe for free or low-cost resources tailored to foreign residents.

By investing in these reading materials, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to navigate and adapt to daily life in Kobe, Japan.