Meriken Park

Meriken Park (メリケンパーク) in Kobe’s port area is a scenic waterfront park with grassy lawns, modern art, and fountains. It's home to the red Kobe Port Tower and the Kobe Maritime Museum, housed in a striking white steel structure resembling sails. The park was rebuilt after the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake, with a small memorial and a section of damaged waterfront preserved as reminders of the tragedy.

At the museum, visitors can explore Kobe Port’s history, see ship models, and view historic boats outdoors. The building also houses Kawasaki Good Times World, showcasing Kawasaki Heavy Industries' products like motorcycles, trains, and aircraft. West of the museum stands Kobe Port Tower, built in 1963. Rising 108 meters, it offers five observation decks, an open-air rooftop, and a revolving café. Nearby, cruises around Kobe Bay depart from Nakatottei Chuo Terminal, starting at 1500 yen.