Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Former Foreign Settlement is a historic district in Chuo Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, which was developed as a foreign settlement after the opening of Kobe Port in 1868 (the first year of the Meiji era). It is characterized by its orderly grid-like streets, modern stone and brick architecture, tree-lined avenues and wide sidewalks, and Western-style buildings built between the Meiji and Taisho periods still remain, which have been renovated in modern times into high-end boutiques, cafes, restaurants and offices.
Its unique scenery, where foreign cultures and Japanese modernization intersect, and the open feeling of being close to the sea are its attractions. The sights are concentrated in a compact area that is easy to stroll around, making it a spot where you can easily experience the exotic atmosphere that is characteristic of Kobe.
Highlights
- Western-style buildings: A street lined with buildings with stone and brick exteriors, including former banks, trading houses, and public buildings. You can observe architectural details and how they have been preserved and reused.
- Old Foreign Settlement Street (Tree-lined Avenue): Lined with palm trees and plane trees, it's perfect for strolling and taking photos.
- Shopping and Cafes: There are many luxury brand stores, select shops, and relaxing cafes and restaurants, making it convenient for window shopping and tea time.
- Tour the interiors of renovated buildings: Some of the old buildings are open to the public as shops, galleries and restaurants, allowing you to enjoy the contrast between the old structure and modern design.
- Ocean and harbor views: The southern side of the area is close to the harbor and leads to walking routes towards Meriken Park and Kobe Port Tower.
- Seasonal events: There are illuminations, street events, and events held in the surrounding area (such as seasonal light-ups).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: About a 3-8 minute walk from JR/Hanshin Motomachi Station. A short walk from Kyukyoryuchi/Daimarumae Station on the Kobe Municipal Subway Kaigan Line. About a 15 minute walk or a few minutes bus ride from JR/Hankyu/Hanshin Sannomiya (Kobe Sannomiya) Station.
- Bus: City buses and Shinki buses connect to Sannomiya and Motomachi. Get off at the bus stop near your destination.
- By car: There are paid parking lots and parking lots at commercial facilities in the area. However, they tend to fill up on weekends and during events, so we recommend using public transportation.
- From the airport: Sannomiya and Motomachi can be accessed by train or limousine bus from Kansai International Airport or Itami Airport.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk: 30-60 minutes (walk around the main streets, take photos, window shopping)
- Leisurely sightseeing: 1.5 to 3 hours (including cafe breaks, interior tours, and visiting nearby attractions)
- Touring the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (including Kitano Ijinkan-gai and Chinatown (Nankinmachi) on the north side, and Meriken Park and Harborland on the south side)
Nearby spots
- Nankinmachi (Chinatown): A few minutes' walk from Motomachi Station. Plenty of Chinese restaurants and places to eat.
- Kitano Ijinkan-gai: A popular tourist spot dotted with old, exotic Western-style buildings. Accessible by foot or bus from the former foreign settlement.
- Meriken Park and Kobe Port Tower: Tourist attractions include harbor views, parks, and the BE KOBE monument.
- Harborland Mosaic: A complex facility offering shopping, gourmet food, a Ferris wheel and more.
- Department stores such as Daimaru Kobe: Convenient for shopping and dining.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: It gets especially crowded on weekends, holidays, during peak tourist seasons, and when events are held. If you want to observe the architecture in peace and quiet, weekday mornings are the best time to go.
- Photography etiquette: It's okay to take photos of the exteriors, but if you're taking photos inside commercial facilities, stores, or restaurants, please ask a store staff member. Also, when taking photos for long periods of time on the roadside, please be mindful not to obstruct pedestrians.
- Store opening hours: Each shop and cafe has different opening hours. Many stores are closed on holidays and at night, so if there is a store you want to visit, be sure to check in advance.
- Seasonal weather: As it is close to the sea, there may be strong winds. Be careful of the cold in winter and the sunlight and humidity in summer. In rainy weather, the roads and cobblestones can be slippery, so be careful of your footing.
- Barrier-free access: The sidewalks are wide, but some older buildings have steps and narrow entrances, making it difficult to enter with a wheelchair or stroller. Please contact the store in advance if you require access.
- Garbage and eating and drinking etiquette: Please avoid throwing garbage on the street and, when using a store, please eat and drink only inside the store.
The former foreign settlement is easy to stroll around and packed with sights to see, so it's highly recommended as a starting point or stopover spot for sightseeing in Kobe. Combine it with other nearby spots to efficiently enjoy Kobe's unique scenery and cuisine.
