Kobe, Japan

Capital City

With a population of over 1.5 million, Kobe is Japan's seventh-largest city and a bustling port metropolis. While the city boasts a cosmopolitan flair and a reputation for high-end shopping, the 1995 earthquake that devastated parts of Kobe serves as a sobering reminder of the natural disaster risks. The tax burden is heavy, with the city contributing 34% of Hyogo Prefecture's GDP. Additionally, the bureaucracy can be a persistent headache for foreign residents. Kobe may appeal to those drawn to its Westernized culture and amenities, but it's not for the faint of heart.