Meriken Park in Kobe

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Facts & Figures

Meriken Park was created on reclaimed land within the Kobe port area. The beautiful waterfront park offers sightseeing spots like the Kobe Maritime Museum, Kobe Port Tower, Kawasaki Good Times World, Kobe Brick Warehouses, the luxury Oriental Hotel, Hotel Okura Kobe, Kobe Anpanman Children’s Museum & Mall, the Mozaic Ferris Wheel, modern art, fountains and the Great Hanshin earthquake memorial.  Explore Ryokans in Kobe >
Ryokans are the perfect way to discover old Japanese culture and traditions. Interesting to know that the park's name came from the word American, which sounded like Meriken in the ears of the Japanese people. Come here at night to enjoy the beautiful illumination of these buildings. Meriken Park is also a very popular dating spot for the locals.

My tips for local activities

How about exploring the amazing food scene of Kobe on a personalized food tour with a local guide? Check out this page > for more details.

History

The Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake memorial within Meriken Park shows you the power of nature which hit Kobe in 1995 and has cost more than 6000 people's life. A section of the park was left untouched after the earthquake which shows you destroyed concrete and damaged the earth. The rest of the park was rebuilt shortly after. To celebrate the opening of Kobe Port 150 years ago a huge moment/sign - Be Kobe - was constructed in 2017. This is the new highlight for all Instagram lovers:)

Sightseeing spots within Meriken Park

Top:

Kobe Port Tower - The 108m high red-painted steel tower was constructed in 1963 and is a symbol of the city of Kobe. The tower was last renovated in 2024. Read more >

Meriken Park Oriental Hotel - With its unique wave-like shape it is a landmark building at the waterfront of Kobe. Book your stay here >

Kobe Maritime Museum - The museum, located at the center of Meriken Park, opened its doors to the public in 1987 to celebrate the 120th anniversary of the opening of the Port of Kobe. Here you can learn more about the history and future of the port, ships, and the sea.

Kawasaki Good Times World - It is a corporate museum of Kawasaki Heavy Industries and opened its doors in 2006. On display are successful products like motorcycles, jets, helicopters, and more.

Be Kobe monument - This sign is a popular spot to take pictures.

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

Every month

Flea Market Meriken Park (every Sunday, and on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays)
At the Naka Pier you can enjoy this flea market with a huge variety of products.

May

Kobe Matsuri Festival (3rd Saturday and Sunday in May)
Enjoy stage dance performances and many parades at the Flower Road. It is the largest festival in the Hyogo Prefecture.

October

Minato Kobe Port Marine Fireworks Festival (late October)
It is one of the top fireworks festivals in the Kansai region. Nearly 250000 people come here to enjoy this spectacle.