Kobe, on the southern side of the main island of Honshū is located on a hillside sloping down toward Osaka Bay. In ancient times, Kobe was an important port in the early days of Japan's trade with China, and was one of the first settlements for foreigners in the mid 19th century. Its relatively small size mean Kobe's neighbourhoods are easily traversed on foot, while the subway system is simple to navigate your way around.