Kobe Port Tower
The 360° view from the aerial red tower
Kobe Port Tower is a panoramic observation deck located in Meriken Park, on the shore of Osaka bay. Inaugurated in 1963, its 108-meter-high hyperboloid structure is now an iconic landmark of Kobe City.
Kobe Port Tower closed for renovation works from 2021, September 26. Reopening planned in spring 2024.
The seafront, from Meriken Park to Harborland, first comes to mind when thinking of Kobe must-sees. A walk along the promenade of the port inevitably goes near Kobe Port Tower and its famous and characteristic architectural red attire.
Built in 1963, its surprising and futuristic shape towers at 108 meters above sea level. The elevator stops a little bit under the tower’s top, at the lowest of the last five levels and their narrow stairs. At the top is a confined and a little bit old-fashioned space that nonetheless offers beautiful 360° views on the port, Osaka bay and Kobe City up to the mountains.
Only three of the tower levels are occupied by the observation deck, the two others house a restaurant and a revolving café. The tower is also used as an emitter for telecommunications in the area.
However, visitors might find the entrance fee quite expensive despite the nice view.