The Kobe Trade Information Office (KTIO) is the U.S. branch office for the city of Kobe, Japan. Based in downtown Seattle, Washington, the KTIO was established in 1961 to promote business investment and exchange, friendship and crosscultural exchange between the United States and Kobe. Kobe is a global industry hub of Japan, located in the second largest economic area, which includes Osaka and Kyoto. Kobe has convenient transport connections to all over the world. You can come to Kobe in only 30 minutes by ferry from Kansai International Airport, in 70 minutes from Tokyo to Kobe Airport by plane. Lots of international cruise ships also visit Kobe Port, one of the biggest ports in Japan. Kobe's major industries are life science, IT and manufacturing. Over 360 life science related companies, research institutions and hospitals are based in Kobe. The City of Kobe offers subsidies and tax reductions to companies including startups to open an office in Kobe. With the highest number of universities in Japan, you will be able to hire talented employees in Kobe. Why don't you start your business in Kobe?