Kobe Earthquake Memorial Museum

The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial Museum, also known as the Disaster Reduction and Human Renovation Institution (人と防災未来センター, Hito to Bōsai Mirai Center), stands as a powerful tribute to the devastating 7.3-magnitude earthquake that struck Kobe and the surrounding areas on January 17, 1995, at 5:46 a.m. The disaster claimed over 5,000 lives and left tens of thousands injured or displaced. Opened in 2002, the museum is located in eastern Kobe and forms part of a broader initiative to preserve the lessons learned from the tragedy. It serves as a memorial, an educational facility, and a center for promoting disaster preparedness and community resilience—making it a must-visit for travelers interested in history, human stories, and social innovation.

Inside, visitors begin their journey in a large-screen theater, where a striking visual simulation of the earthquake’s impact offers a vivid and emotional introduction. From there, a series of exhibits guide guests through the city’s immediate aftermath, recovery efforts, and long-term redevelopment. Interactive displays and hands-on educational games, designed for both adults and children, teach disaster prevention strategies and emergency preparedness while highlighting the importance of civic cooperation. Many exhibits feature multilingual signage, and personal testimonies from survivors provide a deeply human dimension to the experience. The museum also houses archives and research resources for those interested in earthquake science and disaster management.