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Kobe Port Tower

Written By TripJapan168 on Friday, November 13, 2015 | 8:47 AM

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Famous as a symbol of Kobe, the Kobe Port Tower is a 108 m-high landmark tower located in Meriken Park. The world's first building to feature a pipe structure, it was nicknamed the Steel Tower Beauty as a result of its unique structure and shape, reminiscent of an elongated Japanese drum, and was awarded a prize by the Architectural Institute of Japan in 1963.

The observation platform offers a magnificent 360 degree panorama. From here, visitors can see the peaks of Mount Rokko, the streets of Kobe, and the Port of Kobe, as well as Awaji Island, Osaka Bay, and the Senshu region in the distance. Other distinctive features that make a trip to Kobe Port Tower worthwhile include a section of floor made from a special glass that becomes transparent when people approach, affording a spectacular view straight down from 75 m above the ground, and a ceiling that uses optical fibers to create the effect of a nebulous starry sky. At night, 7,000 LEDs (light-emitting diodes) float beautifully in the darkened sky as the observation platform offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy superb night-time views of central Kobe, as well as the illuminations at Harborland's Kobe Mosaic, and Meriken Park.

In addition to a souvenir shop and amusement area, the observation platform is home to a revolving café that rotates full circle every 20 minutes or so, allowing visitors to enjoy unparalleled views of Kobe as they relax with a hot drink.