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A park where one can be absorbed in a spacious open feeling whilst viewing the quintessential scenery of Kobe and feel the ocean breeze.
Meriken Park, a park that faces the port of Kobe, was made in 1887. It is a place where one can relax whilst feeling the fresh ocean breeze surrounded by a panorama of open spacious. The area surrounding the park includes Kobe’s landmark “Kobe Port Tower”, the “Kobe Maritime Museum” with a ship-themed exhibition and a high-end hotel “Kobe Meriken Park Oriental Hotel”. These unique buildings are famous as snapshots of Kobe.
If one has time during a visit, a cruise is also recommended, as there is the jetty for the Kobe Bay Cruise nearby.
There are also illuminations at night. There are several illuminations where one can enjoy the port of Kobe illuminated in various colors.
Daytime at Meriken Park with a spacious open feeling
Meriken Park illuminated at night
Artistic objects within Meriken Park including this, BE KOBE
Meriken Park
The “Meriken Passenger Waiting Area” that was made for maritime bus passengers
Meriken Park at night
Meriken Park
Meriken Park
Meriken Park at night
Meriken Park at night
Meriken Park at night
Meriken Park at night
Some reviews are AI-translated.
If you're visiting Kobe, I really recommend making time for a walk around Meriken Park! It has a wide, comfortable waterfront area. Walking along the harbor, feeling the pleasant sea breeze, and looking out over the expansive ocean view made me feel much more relaxed.
We specifically chose to visit around sunset, and it really didn't disappoint! The setting sun slowly turned the sky red, and the orange-pink glow reflected on the water. Combined with the scenery of Kobe Harbor, it was beautiful from every angle. Even casual snapshots turned into romantic landscape photos.
During the day, the blue sky and ocean feel fresh and refreshing, while the evening brings a softer, more romantic atmosphere. Especially as the sun was setting, I couldn't help but stay a little longer. Kobe's beauty isn't limited to its lively streets; it also has this relaxing and charming harbor atmosphere.
This area in Kobe’s Meriken Park mainly commemorates the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake that occurred in #1995.
1. The triangular stones on the ground and the landscape
These large stones scattered across the ground and the tilted streetlights are not simply landscape decorations. They are actual remnants showing how the Meriken breakwater collapsed and the ground shifted during the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. These ruins have been preserved exactly as they were as “living witnesses,” reminding people of the horror of earthquakes and the importance of disaster preparedness, while passing this historical memory on to future generations.
2. Meaning of the “1995” numbers
The “1995” numbers on the wall represent the year when the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake occurred. The disaster struck in the early morning of January 17, 1995, causing tremendous destruction and casualties. These numbers and the memorial park were created so that the lessons of the disaster and the courage of Kobe’s residents in rebuilding could be remembered and passed down.
3. Red structure (Kobe Port Tower)
“Kobe Port Tower.”
*Exterior design: Its distinctive red tubular structure was inspired by the traditional Japanese musical instrument known as a “drum,” earning it the nickname “Beauty of the Iron Tower.”
*Symbolic meaning: Kobe Port Tower opened in 1963 and is a landmark of Kobe Port. After the earthquake, its bright red appearance was often seen as a positive symbol, representing Kobe rising again like a phoenix and demonstrating its strong vitality and spirit of recovery.
In addition, there is another white building nearby with a structure made of multiple intersecting triangles. This is the “Kobe Maritime Museum,” whose design was inspired by a sailboat cutting through the wind and waves.
Together with the earthquake memorial park, these two buildings form important historical and cultural landmarks in Kobe’s port area.
At Kobe’s Meriken Park, I was immediately drawn to the ocean view! The blue sky, sea, and harbor scenery blend together, creating a very relaxing atmosphere. Walking along the waterfront with the sea breeze makes you want to slow down and take in the view.
As you stroll along the coast, you can see Kobe Port Tower, the Maritime Museum, and ships docked at the harbor. Combined with the expansive ocean view, every photo really feels like a travel shot. The view is especially beautiful when you stand by the water and gaze into the distance.
The tower looks just like a table lamp. At night, it lights up so brightly—like a beacon out at sea.
You can still see the remains from the Hanshin Earthquake here. There’s also a lot of information available about what happened back then.
