Japan Guide
Kansai
Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution
Located about ten minutes' walk from Hanshin Iwaya or JR Nada stations' south exits (both stations are east of Sannomiya on their respective lines) is the Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution, two conjoined museums dedicated to the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. The Disaster Reduction Museum is the more interesting of the two, and its hi-tech multimedia facilities, interactive exhibits and film screenings devoted to the 1995 disaster make this one of Kōbe's highlights. Queue in the lobby for guidance to the fourth floor, where you'll see two short films before proceeding to the incredibly detailed exhibits. Audio guides are available but there are often English-speaking volunteers on hand, some of them quake survivors, who are happy to answer questions. Opening time: Tues– Sun 9.30am–4.30pm, Fri & Sat 9.30am–7pm Price: ¥800 for both museums, ¥500 for one 
078/262-5050 
www.dri.ne.jp