2006.07.25
Recently Google Earth added new high resolution images to their map of Japan. Now I can zoom in to where I used to live in Akashi, which is just west of Kobe. Here's a screen capture (click the image to enlarge):
The arrow shows the little apartment building where I lived, which is right next to Akashi Park. I lived there from 1999 to 2001. I didn't notice that large piece of lint over my building while I was there. Also note the circled rubber factory. Sometime in 2004 or 2005 this was replaced by a shiny new shopping center. I sure will miss those lazy days I spent wallowing in the ol' rubber vats.
Here is the Google Earth file linked to Akashi Park so you can browse around yourself. Be careful of the photo mosaic seam just south of the train station!