Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park

☑️A special place where people can recall terrible damages earthquake and natural hazards had been caused for our lives and then could have feasible solutions to protect our environment. ☑️This water area is protected by concrete coastal structures which are placed close together to mitigate wave attacks from sea.

would definitely recommend if you are looking for a place to learn more about the impacts of earthquake on kobe’s port. also next to the port which is very scenic during sunset.

Small but informative exhibit of the area of Kobe ( Port) when the Earthquake of 1995 hit. There are a few pictures and there is a portion of the the old pier that fell into the water and really gives you a sense of what happened that day. Great job by the city of Kobe of bringing up the history of the day the Quake hit. Nice exhibit.

A deeply moving and beautifully maintained memorial. Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park (神戸港震災メモリアルパーク) offers a powerful tribute to the victims and survivors of the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake. The preserved section of the damaged waterfront serves as a stark and emotional reminder of the earthquake’s impact, while the informative displays provide meaningful context. It’s peaceful, respectful, and educational—an important stop for anyone visiting Kobe. The park’s location along the harbor adds to the experience, making it a place of both reflection and quiet beauty. Highly recommended.

**Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park (Port of Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park) Review** "30th Memorial Service 1995-2025" 🌏 **Overall Experience** A poignant tribute to the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake (Kobe Earthquake), this park serves as a solemn reminder of the disaster’s devastation while honoring resilience and recovery. Located near Kobe’s waterfront, it combines preserved earthquake ruins, educational displays, and tranquil spaces for reflection. A must-visit for history enthusiasts and those seeking to understand Kobe’s transformative journey from tragedy to rebirth. 🏞️ **Key Features** 1. **Preserved Earthquake Damage**: Sections of the original port infrastructure, including fractured roads and tilted lampposts, are left intact to illustrate the earthquake’s force. 2. **Memorial Monuments**: The “Hishō no Suzaku” (Phoenix of Recovery) sculpture symbolizes hope, while stone pillars list the names of victims. 3. **Interactive Displays**: Bilingual (Japanese/English) panels detail the earthquake’s timeline, rescue efforts, and reconstruction. 4. **Quiet Reflection Areas**: Benches and open spaces overlooking the harbor invite contemplation. 5. **Nearby Attractions**: Adjacent to **Meriken Park** and the **Kobe Port Tower**, with the **Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Museum** (separate entry fee) just a short walk away for deeper insights. 💡 **Visitor Experience** - **Emotional Impact**: The site’s rawness—cracked pavement, warped railings—creates a visceral connection to the disaster. Survivor testimonials etched into walls add a deeply human element. - **Educational Value**: Ideal for families and schools, offering lessons on disaster preparedness and community solidarity. - **Photography**: Respectful photography is allowed, but avoid treating the site as a casual tourist spot. 📍 **Location & Access** - **Address**: 2 Hatobacho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0042 (within Meriken Park). - **Transport**: 10-minute walk from JR Kobe Station or Motomachi Station. Accessible via the Kobe City Loop Bus. - **Hours**: Open 24/7 (outdoor park); nearby museum hours vary. - **Admission**: Free (park); museum entry ~¥600. 📌 **Tips for Visitors** 1. **Timing**: Visit during daylight for clear views of the preserved ruins. Sunset offers a serene backdrop. 2. **Combine Visits**: Pair with the **Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Museum** (DRI) for a comprehensive understanding. 3. **Respect the Space**: This is a memorial—maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor. 4. **Accessibility**: Wheelchair-friendly paths and benches available. 🌱 **Reflections** The park isn’t just about loss; it’s a testament to Kobe’s unyielding spirit. The juxtaposition of shattered infrastructure against the modern, vibrant port city highlights Japan’s expertise in disaster recovery. Visitors often leave with a renewed appreciation for life and community. **Final Thoughts** A moving, thought-provoking destination that balances grief with hope. Whether you’re paying respects, learning about history, or reflecting on resilience, the Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park leaves an indelible impression. *Pro Tip*: Afterward, stroll through Meriken Park or enjoy Kobe’s famous beef at a nearby restaurant to round out your day. 🌉✨

The memorial of a former wharf dedicated to the victims of the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake that show the power of the earth movement with the incredible displacement from the original extent and also indictaed by the street lights that are misaligned all over the place.

A small memorial on the 1995 Kobe Earthquake. It's facing Kobe Bay.

A nice place to take a walk and explore around.

I was in the area exploring and ended up at this park. It's a perfect place to relax near the Osaka Bay and people watch. I wish there were more places to sit and more shaded areas because it was a pretty warm day and I didn't want a sunburn. There aren't really any shops or restaurants. It's basically a wide-open area for people to walk around. Overall, if you're looking for a place to take it slow for a bit, this is a great place to relax.

The waterfront park has very beautiful harbor view, few landmarks and famous hotels located in this park.

A really nice park in front of Kobe Bay. Really a nice place to just relax and enjoy the breeze. You can also get into a cruise ship here. On one side of the park you can also see a small museum, a remnants of the big Hanshin earthquake.

It was nice to stroll through this waterfront park, and see some of the fountains, artwork, and a memorial they had. Great for locals and tourists, with some nice green grassy areas for families to play and hang out. The air is fresh here and can get breezy.

A promenade and square where you can take a walk feeling breeze from the port. I came here with a friend of mine, my superior or my husband. Around the square I found many pigeons, which are said to be a symbol of peace. I felt relaxed without thinking any annoyance and enjoyed seeing sea (seeing sea... it's a trifle pun), red port tower, white framed unique building, or remote skyscrapers leisurely. It becomes an oasis not only for local citizens but also sightseers who get tired of walking around too much. It takes about 10 minutes on foot from Motomachi station of JR line or City Loop from Sannomiya Ekimae bus stop. At the entrance of the park you can see the momument of Meriken Harbor. The bridge close to American consulate was called "American". Meriken is a corrupted form of American. Eventually this place has been called "Meriken Harbor".

I love this park so much. Especially during the summer where the whole park is full of people waiting for fireworks. The fireworks festival is just insane. During Obon, there's lots of fun festivals too, with food and activities. There's also a memorial area for the Kobe earthquake with pictures and explanations. Great park overlooking the harbor!