TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kitano Ijinkan is the collective name for a group of historic Western-style buildings spread across Kitano-cho, Chuo Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture. Many of the residences (ijinkan) built by foreigners who settled in the area following the opening of Kobe Port from the Meiji to Taisho periods remain, making it an area where you can get a close-up look at the lifestyle and Western architectural design of the time. The unique streetscape, a mix of cobblestone slopes, Western-style buildings, and Western-style gardens, is one of Kobe's most famous tourist spots. The area is dotted with unique buildings, such as the photogenic Weathervane House (Weathervane House), Uroko House with its striking scale-patterned exterior, and Moegi House with its beautiful green exterior.
Highlights
- Weathervane House (Weathervane House): A symbol of Kitano. The weather vane on the roof is the landmark, and the museum introduces the lifestyle of the time through exhibits and documents.
- Uroko House Kitanokan: The exterior has a unique appearance with stone slabs (scale-like tiles) on the exterior walls. You can also enjoy the interior and the view of the sea.
- Moegi no Yakata: A Western-style building with a soft green exterior. The furniture and furnishings convey the atmosphere of the time.
- Western-style buildings in the Yamamoto-dori area: It's fun to stroll around and visit the various foreign-style houses, galleries, and cafes. Each building has a different architectural style and interior, so it's interesting to compare them.
- Cityscape and view: Just walking along the slopes and cobblestone alleys is charming, and if the weather is good you can enjoy the view of the harbor and city.
- Cafes and shops: There are cafes, general stores, and souvenir shops scattered around the area, all of which have been converted from Western-style buildings. You can take a break and stroll around at your leisure.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Accessible from JR, Hanshin, Hankyu Sannomiya Station or JR Motomachi Station. About a 10-20 minute walk from either station (there are many slopes).
- Bus: Kobe City Buses and sightseeing loop buses (such as the Kobe Sea/Yamate Loop) stop at bus stops heading towards Kitano. If you want to avoid the slopes, we recommend taking a bus or taxi.
- Taxi: Around 10 minutes from Sannomiya/Motomachi. Convenient for those with luggage or elderly people.
- Parking: There are coin parking lots in the area, but the roads are narrow and the number of spaces is limited, so we recommend using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Just to see the exterior: 30 to 45 minutes
- Enter 2-3 representative Western-style buildings and enjoy leisurely viewing: 1-2 hours
- If you want to visit multiple museums, including a leisurely stroll and a cafe break: 2-3 hours
Nearby spots
- Nankinmachi (Chinatown): A famous spot for eating and drinking. Accessible by foot or bus from Kitano.
- Motomachi Shopping Street: Plenty of shopping and dining spots.
- Harborland Meriken Park: A great spot for strolling around the harbor area, shopping malls, and night views.
- Kitano Tenmangu Shrine and surrounding galleries: Quiet historical sites and art spaces are also scattered throughout the area.
- Rokko (if you have time): You can also go to spots where you can enjoy nature and night views.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The museums are crowded on holidays, consecutive weekends, and tourist seasons (spring and autumn tourist seasons, New Year's holidays). You may have to wait to enter the particularly popular museums.
- Admission fee: Many foreign-style buildings charge a fee (fees vary for each building). Some buildings sell combined tickets that cover multiple buildings, so it's a good idea to check in advance to get a good deal.
- Slopes and stairs: The area has many slopes and stairs, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. There are some areas that are difficult to navigate with strollers or wheelchairs.
- Photography: While photography of the exterior and common areas is generally permitted, there are some areas inside the building and exhibits where photography is prohibited. Please follow the signs inside the building.
- Manners: There are many exhibits and some narrow areas inside the museum, so please refrain from talking loudly or running around. Many facilities do not allow pets.
- Weather precautions: As it is close to the sea, it can get cold on windy days and in winter. In summer, it can be sunny and humid, so please bring drinks and clothes to protect yourself from the heat.
- Opening hours and closing days: Varies by facility. Please check the official website or tourist information for the latest information before visiting.
