Kobe's Chuo Ward developed during the Meiji era when the port was opened and government offices began concentrating in the area. In addition to the newly built city center, there are many different sights to see within this ward, including old buildings such as the Kitano Ijinkan, where you can sense history, and the large-scale construction of Port Island. The area suffered damage of a magnitude 7 earthquake in the Great Hanshin Earthquake, and although it has recovered, many scars remain and can still be seen. However, many buildings have been designed based on the lessons learned from this disaster, ensuring safety for daily life. At night, the bridge and port are lit up, making it a popular date spot.