Dec 24, 2014 - 1 min read

Lights in the Port Town of Kobe

Exotic architecture in the sea breeze

By Masayoshi Hirose

Community writer

Translated by Takako Sakamoto

Community writer

Port Tower and Kawasaki World, the two landmarks that create romantic night views of Kobe

The impressive architecture of the number two and three buildings of Kobe Daimaru Department Store, located in the former foreign settlement

The unique pipe structure of Kobe Port Tower

Looking at the narrow street of Sannomiya, Kobe

Number 38 building of the former foreign settlement

A restaurant inside Kobe East Pleasure Park which is located on the south side of Kobe City Office

The night view seen from the observation spot on Mount Maya, which is one of the biggest observation spots in Rokko Mountain Range. This view is designated as one of three beautiful night-time views in Japan.

Department store's window display matching the cold windy night!

Kobe Luminarie, the symbol of the restoration from the Great Hanshin Earthquake. It commemorates the victims and symbolized the hope of early recovery from the earthquake.

The night view seen from the East Rokko Observation Deck on Royu Driveway

The port town of Kobe is known as an exotic, sophisticated town, and its essence is felt in the unique architecture in the former foreign settlement in Sannomiya, or Harborland.

I seldom travel overseas, thus don't have opportunities to experience foreign cultures. Therefore, looking at the beautiful landscaping or massive architecture of this town, which followed examples of urban city planning in European cities, impresses and awes me.

If you ever visit this historical town, I'd recommend that you stroll around, feel the sea breeze at Harborland, and as a finale admire the awesome night view of the city from the top of Mount Rokko.

Night-time Tale of Three Cities 1. Night in Kyoto 2. Lights in the Port Town Kobe 3. Magnificent Night Views of Osaka