Japan’s only “hotel lighthouse” in Kobe opens for limited-time visits on 11/1

▲ The “Hotel Oriental Express Kobe Meriken Park,” which looks like a large cruise ship. (Photo / fromHotel Oriental Express Kobe Meriken Park official fan page)

Reported by Cai Wenjun / Comprehensive report

The most prominent hotel in Kobe Port, “Hotel Oriental Express Kobe Meriken Park,” not only captures attention with its appearance resembling a huge cruise ship but also features Japan’s only lighthouse built on top of a hotel, ensuring the safety of vessels entering and leaving Kobe Port. To celebrate Lighthouse Day on November 1, the hotel will offer free public access on that day, giving guests a chance to view the city — celebrated as one of Japan’s three greatest nightscapes — from a different angle.

▲ Japan’s only hotel-based lighthouse. (Photo / from Hotel Oriental Express Kobe Meriken Park official fan page)

The hotel lighthouse at “Hotel Oriental Express Kobe Meriken Park” was built in 1964 and is an officially certified lighthouse under Japan’s Maritime Safety Agency. It continues to play its role in ensuring the safety of passing ships to this day, though it is normally not open to the public.

In conjunction with Lighthouse Day, the hotel is hosting a one-day-only lighthouse tour event, opening its doors for free from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM on November 1.