Kobe Maritime Museum

History of the Museum

Located in Meriken Park, the Kobe Maritime Museum is a comprehensive museum focusing on maritime history, ships, and port development. Its predecessor, the Kobe International Port Museum, opened in 1962. In 1987, the museum reopened in its present form to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the opening of Kobe Port.

The exhibitions trace the history of the port from its modern development back to earlier periods. They include Owada no Tomari, an ancient harbor developed by the military leader Taira no Kiyomori, and Fukuhara-kyo, the short-lived capital established in the late 12th century. More than 200 ship models help illustrate the evolution of vessels and maritime activity across different eras.

Exhibitions at the Kobe Maritime Museum

Modern and Future Kobe Port

Exhibition Room A on the first floor focuses on the present and future of Kobe Port. Displays introduce the technologies, initiatives, and plans shaping the port’s continuing development, helping visitors understand its role in modern trade, transportation, and the wider maritime industry.

An event space also hosts activities such as model railway demonstrations and running sessions. These events can make the museum particularly enjoyable for families and visitors with an interest in trains and transportation.

Kobe Port Through History

Exhibition Room B on the second floor explores the historical development of Kobe Port. Visitors can learn about Owada no Tomari, the harbor associated with Taira no Kiyomori, as well as the transformation of Kobe into a major international port from the end of the Edo period through the Meiji era.

A 3D high-definition theater presents the port’s history through immersive visual experiences. The combination of historical exhibits and audiovisual presentations helps bring the city’s maritime past to life.

Kawasaki Good Times World

Opened in 2006, Kawasaki Good Times World introduces the history, products, and engineering achievements of Kawasaki Heavy Industries. The exhibits span transportation and technology on land, at sea, and in the air, offering a closer look at the company’s contributions to modern Japanese industry.

Real Vehicles and Engineering Exhibits

Among the highlights are an actual leading car from the original 0 Series Shinkansen bullet train and a KV-107 II helicopter. Visitors can step into designated areas of the train, including the driver’s cab and passenger seating area, to experience these machines from a more personal perspective.

Interactive Simulators and Games

The museum also features interactive activities, including a train-driving simulator, a marine sports simulator, and quiz games covering land, sea, air, and environmental themes. These hands-on experiences make complex engineering concepts more accessible and entertaining for visitors of different ages.

For families, transportation enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Japanese manufacturing, Kawasaki Good Times World adds a practical and interactive dimension to the museum visit.

Museum Facilities

First Floor

The first floor contains Exhibition Room A, which focuses on modern and future Kobe Port, as well as the event space, Kawasaki Good Times World, a rest area, and the museum shop. Visitors can browse maritime-themed souvenirs and other items after exploring the exhibitions.

Second Floor

The second floor houses Exhibition Room B, dedicated to the historical development of Kobe Port, along with the 3D high-definition theater and a restaurant. These facilities provide opportunities to learn, relax, and enjoy a meal during your visit.

Outdoor Exhibits

Several large-scale exhibits can be found outdoors, offering a closer look at the machinery and technology used in maritime and industrial settings. Highlights include an actual trigger mechanism used for 60 years at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Kobe Shipyard, a steam turbine engine installed aboard the container ship Raimaru, and the autonomous underwater vehicle known as Marine Bird.

The nearby Kobe Port Earthquake Memorial Park is another important place to visit. It preserves part of the damage caused by the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake, helping visitors understand the disaster’s impact on the port and the city’s subsequent recovery.

The Museum’s Distinctive Architecture

One of the most recognizable features of the Kobe Maritime Museum is the striking white framework on its roof. Its design evokes the movement of waves and the sails of sailing ships, reflecting the museum’s maritime theme.

At night, the structure is illuminated with blue-toned lighting, creating a distinctive sight within Meriken Park. Its unusual silhouette has become a recognizable feature of the Kobe waterfront and adds to the appeal of visiting the museum after dark.

Explore Kobe’s Maritime Heritage

The Kobe Maritime Museum offers much more than a traditional collection of historical objects. Visitors can trace the development of Kobe Port, discover the ships and technologies that have supported maritime trade, and explore the engineering achievements of Kawasaki Heavy Industries through interactive displays.

Whether you are interested in maritime history, trains, aircraft, industrial technology, or the development of modern Kobe, the museum provides an engaging way to discover the close relationship between the city and the sea.