# Meriken Park

> Kobe's main waterfront park with the red Kobe Port Tower, BE KOBE monument, and Kobe Maritime Museum.

- Prefecture: Hyogo
- Type: Landmark
- Address: Kobe, Hyogo, Japan
- Admission: Free
- Official site: https://www.feel-kobe.jp/en/facilities/detail/?id=1478

Meriken Park is the most recognizable landmark area along Kobe's harbor, built on reclaimed land jutting into the port. The park features the red lattice Kobe Port Tower, the sail-shaped Kobe Maritime Museum, and the popular BE KOBE lettered monument that has become the city's signature photo spot. Adjacent to the park lies the Kobe Port Earthquake Memorial Park, preserving a section of the wharf left in its collapsed state after the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake. The waterfront promenade is pleasant both day and night, with the illuminated tower and museum creating one of Japan's best-known night views. Nearby Kobe Harborland offers shopping and dining, making Meriken Park a good starting point for exploring the port city.

## FAQ

### How do I get to Meriken Park?

From JR Motomachi Station, walk south for about 10-15 minutes via Kobe's Nankinmachi (Chinatown), or take Kobe City Subway Kaigan Line to Minato-Motomachi Station, a 5-minute walk to the park. From Sannomiya it's about a 20-minute walk. The City Loop tourist bus also stops at Meriken Park (260 yen single, 700 yen day pass).

### When is the best time to visit Meriken Park?

Sunset and after dark are best. The illuminated Kobe Port Tower and Maritime Museum, plus the lit BE KOBE monument, create one of Japan's best-known harbor night views. The Luminarie light festival in early-to-mid December is popular but very crowded. Year-round, mornings are quieter for clean photos of the BE KOBE letters without queues.

### Is there an entry fee for Meriken Park?

The park itself is free and open 24 hours. Inside the park, the Kobe Port Tower observation deck is 1,200 yen (renovation reopened in 2024), the Kobe Maritime Museum/Kawasaki Good Times World combo is 900 yen for adults. The BE KOBE monument and the Earthquake Memorial Park preservation area are free.

### What's nearby Meriken Park to combine into a half-day visit?

Combine with Kobe Harborland (5-minute walk) for shopping and dining at Umie Mall and the Mosaic complex, Nankinmachi (Kobe Chinatown, 10 minutes on foot) for street food, and a Kobe Bay sunset cruise from the Naka Pier. Nearby Kobe Brick Warehouse District has cafes in restored 19th-century warehouses.

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Source: Meriken Park — Japan Voyage