About Kobe Port Tower

The Kobe Port Tower is a well-known landmark as well as an observation tower that can be seen in the port district of Kobe, Japan. It is a cylinder tower that is 108 meters (354 feet) in height, and its one-of-a-kind design features two elongated, sloping cylinders that converge at the summit to form a circular observation deck. The tower’s diameter is 108 meters (354 feet). The tower is given a remarkable appearance in Kobe’s skyline due to the vibrant red and white color scheme that was used on it, as well as the LED lights that are used to illuminate it at night.

Kobe Port Tower was finished in 1963 as a way to honor the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Port of Kobe, which has been a significant factor in the expansion and development of the city as well as the expansion of the local economy. The renowned Japanese architect Masato Otaka, who is also responsible for the design of a number of other significant structures in Japan, was the architect behind the skyscraper.

The observation deck of the Kobe Port Tower is situated at a height of 90 meters (295 feet), and it provides visitors with breathtaking views over the city as well as the areas that surround it. When the weather is clear, guests will have a view that extends as far as the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, which is the longest suspension bridge in the world and links Kobe to Awaji Island.

The Kobe Port Tower is open to guests every day from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., although there is a charge to enter the building. On the bottom level of the tower is a small museum that shows the history and development of the Port of Kobe. Additionally, there is a gift store and a cafe on the ground floor of the tower.

History timeline of Kobe Port Tower

Here is a timeline of the history of Kobe Port Tower, a landmark observation tower in Kobe, Japan:

  • 1963: The construction of Kobe Port Tower begins. The tower was designed by the Japanese architect Masato Otaka, and was built to commemorate the port’s 100th anniversary.
  • 1964: The construction of Kobe Port Tower is completed, and the tower opens to the public on May 22. The tower is 108 meters tall, and is made of steel and reinforced concrete.
  • 1995: Kobe is hit by a massive earthquake, which causes significant damage to the city, including the Kobe Port Tower. The tower’s observation deck is closed for several months for repairs.
  • 2001: The Kobe Port Tower is designated as a “Modern Industrial Heritage Site” by the government of Hyogo Prefecture.
  • 2009: The Kobe Port Tower undergoes a major renovation, which includes the installation of LED lights on the tower’s exterior.
  • 2018: The Kobe Port Tower celebrates its 50th anniversary. To mark the occasion, the tower is lit up with special colors and a laser show is held.

The Kobe Port Tower continues to be one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Kobe today. From the observation deck atop the tower, visitors can take in breathtaking vistas of the city as well as the countryside. The tower is also frequently utilized as a symbol of the city in many marketing materials and promotions pertaining to tourism.

How to reach Kobe Port Tower

Kobe Port Tower is located in the Meriken Park district of Kobe, which is conveniently accessible via public transit. Here are some ways to reach Kobe Port Tower:

By train: The nearest train station to Kobe Port Tower is Minatojima Station on the Hanshin Main Line, which is about a 10-minute walk from the tower. Another nearby station is Motomachi Station, which is about a 15-minute walk away and is served by many railway lines, including the JR Kobe Line, the Hanshin Main Line, and the Hankyu Kobe Line.

By bus: Several city buses stop near Kobe Port Tower, including the City Loop bus and the Kobe City Bus. The nearest bus stop is “Meriken Park” or “Kobe Port Tower” stop.

By taxi: Taxis are generally available in Kobe, and the travel to Kobe Port Tower from the city center or major train terminals should take around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

By car: If you are driving, you may access Kobe Port Tower by following the signs to the Meriken Park area, where there are various parking lots available.

Once you reach Kobe Port Tower, the entrance to the tower is located on the ground floor, where you may purchase tickets and take the elevator up to the observation deck.

Highlights of Kobe Port Tower

The Kobe Port Tower is a must-visit landmark when in Kobe. Here are some highlights of Kobe Port Tower:

  1. Observation Deck: The observation deck is located at a height of 90 meters (295 feet) and offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area. The observation deck provides a 360-degree view of the city, and visitors can enjoy the view of the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the Rokko Mountains, and the Port of Kobe.
  2. Unique Design: Kobe Port Tower’s cylindrical tower is a unique design that is instantly recognizable. The tower is painted in a bright red and white color scheme, and its striking design makes it a prominent feature of Kobe’s skyline.
  3. Kobe Port Tower Museum: The museum located on the ground floor of the tower showcases the history and development of the Port of Kobe. The museum features a collection of photographs, documents, and artifacts related to the port’s history, which is one of the most important ports in Japan.
  4. Lighting at night: The Kobe Port Tower is also lit up at night with LED lights, making it a beautiful and colorful feature of Kobe’s skyline.
  5. Accessible location: The tower is located in the Meriken Park area, which is easily accessible by public transportation. It is a popular tourist destination and can be visited at any time of the day.

Kobe Port Tower is an iconic landmark and an important symbol of the city of Kobe. Visitors to the tower can enjoy the stunning views of the city and the surrounding area, learn about the history of the port, and appreciate the tower’s unique design.

Do's and Dont's at Kobe Port Tower

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Kobe Port Tower:

Do’s:

  1. Do take the time to enjoy the panoramic views from the observation deck of Kobe Port Tower. The views of the city and the surrounding area are one of the main attractions of the tower.
  2. Do take advantage of the photo opportunities at Kobe Port Tower. The tower is a popular spot for taking photos, both of the tower itself and of the views from the observation deck.
  3. Do visit the small museum on the ground floor of Kobe Port Tower, which provides information about the history and development of the Port of Kobe.
  4. Do check the weather forecast before visiting Kobe Port Tower, as the views can be affected by the weather conditions. It is best to visit on a clear day for the best views.

Don’ts:

  1. Don’t smoke in or around Kobe Port Tower. Smoking is prohibited inside the tower and in the surrounding park areas.
  2. Don’t bring large bags or backpacks into Kobe Port Tower. For security reasons, large bags are not allowed inside the tower and must be left in lockers provided outside.
  3. Don’t lean over the railings on the observation deck or climb on any of the equipment or structures. Safety is a priority, and visitors should follow the rules and regulations of the tower.
  4. Don’t forget to purchase your admission ticket before going up to the observation deck. Tickets can be purchased on the ground floor of the tower.

Statistics of Kobe Port Tower

The following is a list of some statistics regarding Kobe Port Tower:

Height: The Kobe Port Tower stands at a height of 108 meters (354 feet).

Design: The tower is designed with a cylindrical shape and is constructed out of steel.

Observation Deck: The observation deck offers a view in every direction, as it is situated at a height of 90 meters (295 feet) and provides a panoramic perspective of the city and its environs.

Construction: Kobe Port Tower’s construction began in 1959, and it was finished in 1963, just in time for the opening of the Port of Kobe to international trade.

Architect: Kiichi Sumikawa, an architect from Japan, was the one responsible for designing the Kobe Port Tower.

Lighting: The tower is illuminated at night by LED lights, the colors of which vary according to the time of year and any special events that are taking place.

Capacity: Up to 600 people are able to visit the tower at one time without it being overcrowded.

The Kobe Port Tower is not just an instantly identifiable symbol of the city of Kobe, but also one of the most well-known structures in all of Japan. Since the time it was built, it has served as a representation of the growth and progression of the city, and it still draws tourists from all over the world.

Frequently asked questions about Kobe Port Tower ?

What is Kobe Port Tower?
A tower measuring 108 meters (354 feet) in height, the Kobe Port Tower may be seen in the Meriken Park neighborhood of Kobe, Japan. It is a well-known destination for vacationers and a representation of the growth and improvement of the city.
What are the opening hours of Kobe Port Tower?
The observation deck of Kobe Port Tower is open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm daily. The museum is open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm.
How much does it cost to visit Kobe Port Tower?
The admission fee for the observation deck is 700 yen for adults and 300 yen for children. The admission fee for the museum is 300 yen for adults and 200 yen for children. There are discounts available for groups and visitors with disabilities.
Can I buy tickets for Kobe Port Tower online?
Yes, visitors can buy tickets for Kobe Port Tower online through various ticketing websites.
Is Kobe Port Tower accessible for visitors with disabilities?
Visitors with impairments will not have any trouble accessing the Kobe Port Tower. Wheelchair ramps and elevators are included in the tower's design, and guests with impairments have access to specialized toilets and parking spots.
Is photography allowed at Kobe Port Tower?
On the observation deck of the Kobe Port Tower, you are welcome to take photographs at any time. It is highly recommended that tourists bring their cameras to capture the breathtaking vistas of the city and the countryside that surround it.
Can I visit Kobe Port Tower at night?
Yes, visitors can visit Kobe Port Tower at night. The tower is lit up with LED lights, which change colors depending on the season and special events, making it a beautiful sight to see at night.
What else is there to do near Kobe Port Tower?
The Meriken Park area, where Kobe Port Tower is located, is a popular tourist destination with several other attractions nearby. Some of the nearby attractions include the Kobe Maritime Museum, the Kobe Earthquake Memorial Museum, and the Kobe Harborland shopping and entertainment complex.