What other travelers are saying about Kobe Earthquake Memorial Museum
If you're traveling to Japan, I would recommend going to Kobe to see this memorial museum. The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial museum was stark and humbling experience of what impact earthquakes can have on us. They had a plethora of video recordings, recollections and interviews of survivors, simulation areas, suggestions on how to better prepare for natural disasters, and more. We stayed for almost three hours and would have spent longer if not for an engagement we had to make thereafter. Highly, highly recommend this.
This exhibit immortalises the 1995 earthquake which almost leveled the city. There are artefacts, eyewitness testimony, as well as interactive exhibits targeting children. There were multiple theatres showing films about emergency preparedness. They provide translators which you can wear, but it can be difficult to hear over the Japanese dialogue being played at full volume throughout the room. If you’ve been to the museums in Hiroshima or Nagasaki, you will have a good idea of what to expect. There is an immersive experience at the beginning of the tour which I didn’t enjoy; as it had a lot of flashing lights, loud noises, and blurred imagery (but everyone is different). There are two buildings, with the second containing exhibits which largely target Japanese children. Worth having a look if you’re interested in contemporary history, or don’t know much about the science behind earthquakes. Admission is inexpensive. Paid parking available nearby.
the Museum is really really good. you still can get a feeling how dire the situation must have been after the earthquake of 95. the displays are well made and the guides are friendly and helpfull.
i absolutely recommend going there, especially if you originate from a non-seismically active area of the world.
By far the best museum in Japan I have visited. Video presentations have been adequately translated to English, items on display have English signs and staff is extremely helpful and wellwilling to demonstrate their exhibits.
I had a lot of fun here, even in the kids activities on the east wing.
Worth going to!
