Kobe Port Tower Travel Guide

Free Guide: Iconic Kobe landmark offering panoramic views of the city, harbor, and mountains from its unique hyperboloid structure.

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A brief summary of Kobe Port Tower

Iconic Kobe landmark offering panoramic views of the city, harbor, and mountains from its unique hyperboloid structure.

The Kobe Port Tower, an iconic landmark in Kobe, Japan, stands as a symbol of the city's maritime history and modern growth. Completed in 1963, the 108-meter-tall tower offers panoramic views of Kobe's harbor, cityscape, and surrounding mountains from its observation decks. Its unique hyperboloid structure, resembling a traditional Japanese drum, sets it apart from other observation towers.

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Plan your visit

Opening hours

Every day9 am–11 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address: 5-5 Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0042
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Getting there

Walking

From Motomachi Station (JR Kobe Line, Hanshin Main Line), walk south for about 10 minutes to reach Kobe Port Tower, located in Meriken Park. Alternatively, from Minato Motomachi Station (Kaigan Subway Line), it's a 5-minute walk. Enjoy the pleasant walk through Harborland and Mosaic Shopping Centre.

Public Transport

Take the Kobe Municipal Subway to Minato Motomachi Station, a 10-minute walk from Kobe Port Tower. Alternatively, take the JR Line to Kobe Station, then either walk for 20 minutes or take a short taxi ride. City buses also run from various points in Kobe to the Port Tower. Check local bus routes for the closest stop.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Kobe and can take you directly to Kobe Port Tower. A short taxi ride from Kobe Station will cost approximately ¥1,800-¥2,200.

Discover more about Kobe Port Tower

Overview

Kobe Port Tower is a striking landmark in Kobe, Japan. Located in Meriken Park near the waterfront, this hyperboloid structure was completed in 1963 and stands 108 meters tall. The tower's design features a vivid red color and a lattice structure made of steel pipes. The tower's unique shape was inspired by a tsuzumi, a traditional Japanese hand drum. Designed by Nikken Sekkei Company, it was the first tower built using a pipe lattice structure. The tower has undergone renovations, including the installation of 7,000 LED lights that create over 40 lighting effects at night.The Kobe Port Tower offers panoramic views of the Kobe harbor and the surrounding Rokko mountain range from its observation deck, making it a popular destination for tourists and photography enthusiasts. The tower is equipped with a revolving café, gift shops, and multimedia displays chronicling Kobe's maritime history. The rooftop deck is a new feature, offering a 360-degree panoramic view.In 1995, the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake caused significant damage to the city, but the Kobe Port Tower survived due to its structural design. The tower was lit up again on Valentine's Day, 28 days after the earthquake, to cheer people up and has since become a symbol of hope for the citizens.

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