Kobe City

Summer is here, which means the chance to head outside and eat in the open air. The BBQ may not be quite as popular in Japan as it is in the West, but many still relish the chance to heat some meat and vegetables over the coals and have themselves a bit of a party. Kobe, famed for its prime beef, is a fine location if you want to indulge in a spot of outdoor grilling. Although many of the city’s parks and gardens are reserved for picnics, there are a few public places where you can BBQ. Here are the best spots. Azur Maiko Park This glorious coastal park in west Kobe is close to Akashi Kaikyo Bridge and includes an 800-meter long artificial beach. The BBQ area is on the beach and is big enough for small social gatherings, although it cannot be used for commercial purposes. With an abundance of other facilities on offer in the park, this is the perfect setting if you want to combine a BBQ with a swim, a nice seaside stroll, or even a round of golf. BBQ facilities are open from September to June each year, closed only for a few…