As the sun sets over Kobe's waterfront, Meriken Park comes alive with a dazzling five-minute fireworks display held on the first and third Saturdays of nearly every month. Best of all, the event is free to attend and takes place throughout the year, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the magic of Kobe's waterfront during every season.
With Kobe Port Tower and the glittering harbor skyline in the background, the weekend fireworks show at Meriken Park is a truly memorable sight. The fireworks are launched close to the shoreline, giving spectators an up-close view of the colorful display as it bursts over the waterfront. Show times vary by season and may be canceled at short notice due to weather conditions, so be sure to check the official website or Instagram account before your visit.
HOW TO ATTEND
Attendance is free, and no reservation is required. For the best views, arrive a little early and find a spot along the Meriken Park waterfront. The schedule for the full year is published on the official website, so you can check the dates well before you travel.
- Dates: Usually held on the first and third Saturday of each month after sunset. The full-year schedule is published on the official website; dates and start times may vary, so please check for the latest information before your visit.
- Duration: About 5 minutes
- Venue: Meriken Park, 2 Hatoba-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe
- Admission: Free
- Access: About 10 min from Minato-Motomachi Station (subway) or 15 min from JR Motomachi
- Same-day info: Official Instagram @kobehanabi
- Official Info: kobe-minatonoyoru.com | feel-kobe.jp (English available)
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
Located just 30 minutes from Osaka by train, Kobe makes for an easy evening getaway, and the Meriken Park fireworks are the perfect way to round out a visit. Before the show, take a stroll along the harbor waterfront, enjoy dinner in the vibrant streets of Nankinmachi Chinatown, or explore the charming hillside lanes of the historic Kitano district.
Source: Kobe Minato-no-Yoru Executive Committee | Kobe Tourism Bureau | feel-kobe.jp #WestGoldenRoute #Kobe #Fireworks #Nukumori