Kobe Port Tower: A Symbol of Kobe

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Iconic 1960s Kobe landmark with panoramic views from its observation deck and rooftop, resembling a traditional Japanese drum.

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Kobe Port Tower

Kobe Port Tower, an iconic landmark completed in 1963, stands as a symbol of Kobe's maritime history and modern aspirations. Designed to resemble a traditional Japanese drum, the tower offers panoramic views of the city, port, and surrounding mountains.

A brief summary to Kobe Port Tower

5-5 Hatobacho, Kobe, Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Hyogo, 650-0042, JP
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Monday 9 am-11 pm
Tuesday 9 am-11 pm
Wednesday 9 am-11 pm
Thursday 9 am-11 pm
Friday 9 am-11 pm
Saturday 9 am-11 pm
Sunday 9 am-11 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kobe Port Tower.

Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid potential lines, especially during peak seasons.
Visit at night to experience the dazzling city lights and the illuminated tower itself.
Take advantage of the Port Loop or City Loop bus for convenient access to the tower.
Check the official website for any closures due to private events or maintenance.
Consider visiting during your birth month for potential discounts if you are a Kobe resident.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Motomachi Station (JR or Hanshin lines), it's approximately a 15-minute walk to Kobe Port Tower. Alternatively, take the Kobe Municipal Subway Kaigan Line to Minato Motomachi Station, which is a 5-minute walk to the tower. The Port Loop bus also stops at Port Tower-mae or Kamomeria. Subway fare is around ¥240. A ride on the Port Loop bus costs ¥260.
Walking

From Meriken Park, the Kobe Port Tower is easily accessible by foot. Simply follow the waterfront promenade for a leisurely stroll of approximately 5-10 minutes. Enjoy the views of the harbor and the surrounding attractions as you approach the tower. No costs involved.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Kobe and can take you directly to Kobe Port Tower. From Kobe Station, a taxi ride would take approximately 5-10 minutes, costing around ¥800-¥1,200. Note that there is no dedicated parking at Kobe Port Tower. Instead, use nearby parking lots such as Times Meriken Park Parking Lot or Oriental Hotel Parking Lot. Parking fees typically cost ¥200 per 30 minutes.

Discover more about Kobe Port Tower

Kobe Port Tower is a striking landmark in Kobe, Japan, representing the city's rich maritime heritage and its forward-thinking spirit. Completed in 1963, the 108-meter-high tower was designed by the Nikken Sekkei Company and is notable as the first building in the world to feature a pipe lattice structure. Its unique hyperboloid shape is inspired by a tsuzumi, a traditional Japanese hand drum used in Noh and Kabuki performances, blending cultural aesthetics with innovative engineering. The red lattice exterior is meant to resemble the red ropes of the drum.The tower has two main sections: the lower floors, which are free to enter, and the Observation Area in the upper half, which requires an admission fee. The Observation Area includes five floors with attractions such as a rotating bar/cafe, an interactive light museum, a gallery, and a souvenir shop. The rooftop deck, a new addition after the 2024 renovations, provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the Rokko mountains, Kobe city, and its harbor.Throughout its history, Kobe Port Tower has served as a symbol of hope and resilience for the city. It was illuminated shortly after the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake in 1995 to uplift the citizens and has since been called a 'light in the hearts' of the people. The tower underwent renovations from 2021 to 2024, reopening with a refreshed interior and the new rooftop observation deck. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the sea, sky, and sparkling nightscapes that change with the seasons.