Enjoy Kobe’s Historic Charm: A 2-Hour Itinerary for Kitano-cho Ijinkan

When visiting Kobe, a trip to Kitano-cho Ijinkan, the city’s historic foreign settlement quarter, is a must-see. With around 20 beautifully preserved Western-style buildings open to the public, exploring them all can feel overwhelming.

To help you make the most of your time, we’ve crafted a two-hour itinerary that highlights the best of Kitano Ijinkan, ensuring you experience the charm of this old quarter without feeling rushed.

Historic Origins of Kobe’s Kitano Ijinkan District

Kobe’s history as a key port dates back to the period just before the Meiji Era, when Kobe Port was first opened. Today, it remains one of Japan’s most significant hubs for foreign trade. Along with Hakodate, Nagasaki, and Yokohama, Kobe Port was officially opened to international commerce in 1868. Since then, Kobe has served as a vital gateway for foreign nationals involved in global trade.

In the early years, foreigners were restricted to living in designated areas where they could lease property from Japanese landlords. In Kobe, this area was Kitano-cho, located in the city’s Chuo Ward. During the Meiji and Taisho eras, many foreigners residing in Kitano-cho constructed Western-style homes, giving rise to what is now known as Kitano Ijinkan-gai. The term “Ijinkan” derives from “ijin,” the word initially used to refer to foreigners, and “gai,” meaning “district” or “area.”

▲ To get to the Kitano Ijinkan-gai, walk towards the mountain side after exiting JR Sannomiya Station and go up the Kitanozaka hill.

Nagasaki and Yokohama once had numerous old Western-style buildings, but unfortunately, most of them have disappeared over time. In contrast, Kobe’s Kitano district has been fortunate—its historic Western-style buildings were spared from destruction during the 1945 air raids on Kobe and also survived the 1995 Awaji Earthquake, which heavily damaged Kobe and Osaka. As a result, these structures are particularly valuable today.

Several of these valuable historic buildings are scattered throughout the Kitano Ijinkan-gai, preserving the charm and legacy of earlier eras.

The Uroko House, the first to open to the public in Kobe, is one of eight Western-style buildings managed by the Uroko no Ie Group.

To start your visit, head to the Visitors Center where you can purchase a ticket for access to all the Uroko no Ie Group properties.

▲ The friendly staff at the center give helpful advice on how best to visit the old buildings and also point out unique features of each building.

The Premium Pass is a great value, offering access to all the historic buildings managed by the Uroko no Ie Group. There are also other options, such as the Yamanote Pass, which allows entry to four buildings and the observation gallery. Before we begin, let’s decide on the route we’ll take.

I opted for the Premium Pass, as I was informed that it’s possible to visit all eight buildings in about two hours.

▲Ticket plaza in front of the Kobe Trick Art Mysterious Consulate

Incidentally, in addition to the Visitors Center, you can also purchase pass tickets here at the Kobe Trick Art Mysterious Consulate. It is called the Consulate because at one point it was the Consulate of Panama.

Kitano Ijinkan-gai District Highlights

1. Kitano-cho Square

▲Stairs leading to Kitano-cho Square

Now, let’s begin our visit. We’ll start by just going straight to the north.

Very shortly, you will see the stairs leading to Kitano-cho Square.

▲Bronze statue at Kitano-cho Square

At the top of the stairs, you’ll find Kitano-cho Square, a public rest area. A bronze statue of a musician stands here, with the iconic Weathercock House (The Former Thomas House) in the background, making it a perfect spot for photos.

▲The Weathercock House (The Former Thomas House) is one of the symbolic buildings in Kitano Ijinkan-gai

Weathercock House stands prominently at the rear of the plaza, distinguished by its bright red brick facade, raised second floor with exposed beams and pillars, and the iconic weathercock atop the roof. Its sturdy, stately design sets it apart from the other Western-style buildings in the area.

Built in 1904 as the residence of German merchant Godfried Thomas, the house is now designated as an important cultural property.

▲ The weathercock atop the roof

The Weathercock House is featured in many guidebooks, and its striking silhouette stands out beautifully against the blue sky. While the weathercock functions as a traditional weather vane, indicating the direction of the wind, it also carries symbolic meaning. Known for its strong vigilance, the rooster is believed to ward off evil.

Before we view the inside, let’s first take a closer look at the exterior.

▲ This also appeared in a popular TV drama as the Moegi no Yakata [Moegi Hall].

Moegi House is located to the west of Weathercock House and was built in 1903 as the residence of American Consul General Hunter Sharp. Today, it is recognized as an important cultural property.

Its light green siding gives it a softer, more delicate appearance compared to the sturdy, imposing design of Weathercock House. One of its most distinctive features is the uniquely shaped bay windows, thoughtfully designed to offer a pleasant view of the bay.

As we walk in the area of Kitano-cho Square, let’s continue moving to the east. Let’s head towards the Uroko House.

2. Uroko House

Be sure to check out the Calydonian Boar at Uroko House!

Among the historic buildings in Kitano Ijinkan-gai, Uroko House stands out as a prominent example. Located on a picturesque hillside, it was the first Ijinkan to be opened to the public in Kobe.

Originally built in 1905 as a luxurious rental house for foreigners, it later became the residence of Mr. R. Harrier, the son of German educator E. Harrier. Today, it is designated as a National Tangible Cultural Property.

The most striking feature of Uroko House is its beautiful natural slate exterior, which resembles the scales of a fish. Slate, a type of natural stone historically used in Japan for tiles and inkstones, gives the building a unique texture and appearance. It is estimated that around 3,000 slate tiles were used for the exterior. This design element, combined with its architecture, evokes the image of an old European castle.

There is a bronze statue in the spacious garden at the front of the building called the Calydonian Boar and nicknamed Porcellino.

▲The Calydonian Boar

The Calydonian Boar appears in Greek mythology and it is said that if you rub its snout it will bring good luck.

Its shiny snout is a testament to the popularity of that belief! Be sure to give it a rub yourself when you visit the Uroko House.

Now let’s take a look inside the house.

▲ First floor dining room

Light from the stained glass windows adds color to the room. The table is set beautifully and decorated with seasonal flowers.

▲First floor living room

Several generations of the family deepened their bonds through gatherings in this living room. One can only imagine the conversations held around the table. I imagined that the room rang with joyous laughter.

▲Second floor living room

A beautiful chandelier hangs from the ceiling. Aside from this chandelier, various lighting fixtures are installed in each room and all are worth seeing.

In addition there are many kinds of antique furnishings from the era which visitors are welcome to photograph.

Could this be an old music box? It looks very much like an antique Western jewelry box. It reminds me of a fairy tale.

The checkered pattern on the floor is very attractive. Just once I would like to spend the night in this room. There is also a collection of period golf clubs in the room, too.

▲ What was once the drawing room is now a gift shop

The carpet in this lovely drawing room gift shop is of a different pattern than those in other rooms. This is a good place to look for souvenirs like one of the Calydonian Boar.

Next let’s go to the Uroko Museum.

3. Uroko Museum

The Uroko Museum is actually the western half of Uroko House.

It was opened in 1982. Here there is a collection of modern and contemporary European paintings in one room.

The room is lined with a large number of landscape paintings by Troyon (Barbizon School), works by Matisse, Utrillo, Dubuffet, and other popular painters of that period. Moreover, it is possible to photograph everything.

From the top floor there is a good view of Kobe City, Osaka Port, and Awaji Island. The view from Kitano Ijinkan-gai is without a doubt the best.

4. Yamate 8-Bankan

Next, we will visit Yamate 8-Bankan, which was built during the late Meiji period as the residence of Mr. Sansen.

The Tudor-style architecture of Yamate 8-Bankan exudes a solid, stylish, and nostalgic charm, reminiscent of the English countryside.

Since being featured on a popular television program, Yamate 8-Bankan has attracted visitors from all over the country.

▲ The Saturn Chairs are the secret to its popularity.

Yamate 8-Bankan has gained significant attention as a “power spot,” due to the belief that the wishes of those who sit in the Saturn Chairs will come true. While the excitement has since calmed, there was a time when the chairs were so popular that visitors had to wait up to two hours for a chance to sit in one.

Interestingly, although many associate Saturn with something ominous, the name actually refers to the Roman god Saturnus, the guardian deity of agriculture. As the god of abundance and fruitfulness, the legend arose that sitting in the chair would grant one’s wishes.

▲The chair on the left is for men and the chair on the right is for women.

When you sit in the Saturn Chair, it exudes a natural, awe-inspiring presence. There’s a rumor that the longer you sit in the chair while waiting for your photo to be taken, the higher the chances of your wish being granted.

It’s also said that an impressive number of wishes—ranging from finding a lover, getting married, and recovering from illness to securing a good job or passing an entrance exam—have come true, which is quite remarkable!

There are also many other attractions to be seen in the Yamate 8-Bankan in addition to the Saturn Chairs. These include a substantial art collection of various sculptures, paintings, and Buddhist images.

▲The space overflows with sculptures by Rodin, Bourdelle, and others.

▲On the second floor, precious Buddhist images from Gandhara and Thailand are enshrined

▲ There are also statues of Don Quijote and Sancho Panza in the hallway.

The various works of art on display create a strong sense of mystical energy. Perhaps being surrounded by these artistic pieces enhances the mysterious power attributed to the Saturn Chairs!

When you sit in a Saturn Chair, you’re free to make as many wishes as you like. So don’t hesitate—wish for everything your heart desires. Who knows, maybe your wishes will come true!

5. Take a break in the Old World atmosphere of Starbucks

The walk up from Weathercock House wasn’t too challenging, but Kitano Ijinkan-gai is known for its steep hills. The next area we’ll visit, which includes the English House, has several changes in elevation, so be prepared for a bit more of a climb.

▲The steep and narrow Oranda-zaka [Holland Hill] in front of Uroko House

After exploring the northernmost area, where Uroko House and Yamate 8-Bankan are located, we’ll head down Oranda-zaka and take a well-deserved break. The perfect spot for this is the Starbucks Coffee Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Shop, which offers a unique experience unlike your typical Starbucks.

▲ The retro exterior has green trim fitting Starbucks and there is an imitation old post box out front.

Some Starbucks locations are known as concept stores, designed to reflect the unique character of their surroundings, offering a distinct atmosphere.

The Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Shop is one such concept store and is highly popular. Housed in a two-story wooden residence built in 1907, the building itself is a registered Tangible Cultural Property, adding to its charm and historical significance.

▲The Starbucks logo for this shop is made of wood.

Originally, the house was located 300 meters northeast of its current spot and was owned by an American. After being damaged in the Hanshin Earthquake, it was dismantled and donated to Kobe City for preservation. In 2001, a private company rebuilt the house at its present location.

▲The drinks counter in the rear is the same as in other Starbucks, but….

The interior has the same charming atmosphere as the old Western-style houses.

▲You can also go upstairs to the second floor.

“In keeping with our concept stores, the interior was designed to harmonize with the surrounding buildings,” a PR representative explained. The fixtures and flooring were carefully restored to their original state, with great attention given to the furnishings of the lounge, dining room, guest rooms, and every other space in the house.

▲ There are signs outside each room saying what each once was.

Each room has a slightly different feel and of course it is OK to eat and drink in them! Deciding in which room to sit is part of the fun.

▲This room with its heavy red drapes bathed in sunlight is quite impressive.

Each room has its own unique characteristics.

▲ The walls in this room are covered in paintings and photographs.

▲ The second floor living room

In the center of the second-floor living room, there is a large table that seats eight, with a cozy sofa and round tables positioned toward the back. A large horizontal painting—a map illustrating coffee-producing regions around the world—adorns the wall, flanked by stacks of old books that enhance the room’s foreign, eclectic vibe. The vibrant red walls reminded me of the protagonist’s room from the movie Amélie.

▲ This guest room is very cozy and relaxing.

Leisurely sitting here and reading makes it easy to forget the hustle and bustle of daily life.

▲Cinnamon roll and matcha cream Frappuccino®

The menu and hours are the same as all other Starbucks stores.

The rich cinnamon and butter flavor of the cinnamon roll and the bitter sweet flavor of the matcha cream Frappuccino go really well together.

▲ From the left: Kobe tumbler, Kobe mug, and Kobe stainless bottle

These are Kobe-themed items. The tumbler and mug cup with these designs are only available at this Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Shop and nowhere else in Hyogo Prefecture. They make excellent souvenirs and gifts.

There is no admission charge for the Starbucks Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Shop, so you are only charged for what you eat or drink. If you visit Kobe you should really be sure to visit this shop.

6. Don a cape and cap at English House and imagine yourself as a famous detective

After recharging your batteries at Starbucks, it’s time to continue our visit of the Ijinkan.

▲Ben’s House, Yokan Nagaya (French House), and English House line Kitano-dori

The houses we will visit next, English House, Ben’s House, and Yokan Nagaya, are all on Kitano-dori, the main street of the Ijinkan area.

The English House is built in a colonial style, designed by an English architect for a German doctor named Hudesek who once lived there. On the second floor, a faithful recreation of the world of Sherlock Holmes awaits, capturing the essence of the famous detective’s era.

▲Near the entrance there are hats and capes similar to those worn by Sherlock homes which you can freely borrow.

These are the Inverness Cape and Deerstalker Hat which were Holmes’ trademarks.

There is no charge and you can wear them as you walk around the facility! Wearing these will definitely put you into the mood!

There are many types of furnishings from the 17th through 19th centuries inside the building that were used by the English aristocracy.

After the tour hours, the first floor transforms into BAR King of King’s, starting at 5 PM, where you can enjoy a relaxing evening of drinks. The bar remains open until 1 AM (closed Sundays & holidays), making it the perfect spot to unwind and conclude a day of sightseeing in Kobe.

▲ The pipe, tobacco, and other accessories used by Homes are displayed in the hallway.

On the second floor there are all sorts of things certain to delight all Sherlockians (Sherlock Holmes fans)!

▲ Holmes on the right and Dr. Watson on the left

Holmes’ room has been recreated and contains displays of related items as well as recreations of items that appear in the Holmes series.

Fans who have read the Sherlock Holmes mysteries will certainly recognize many of the items here. This is a space Holmes fans will really love.

At the rear of the house, there’s a charming English garden, featuring a bronze statue commemorating the 160th birthday of Sherlock Holmes. There’s also a wall designed to resemble the “Baker Street Station” on the London Underground, famous for its depictions of Holmes on the platforms—making this spot ideal for taking plenty of photos.

English House with its British atmosphere is an Ijinkan especially recommended for Sherlock Holmes fans. It’s a space where you can feel like what it was like to be part of the English aristocracy.

Other Attractions in Kobe Kitano Ijinkan-gai

The above are some of the attractions you can see during the two-hour walk around the Kobe Kitano Ijinkan, but there are still many more things yet to see.

▲ Kobe Trick Art Mysterious Consulate

▲ Inside there are many kinds of trick art that you can touch, photograph, and play with

▲ This is a recreation of the Foreigners’ Assoc. which was a social club and meeting please of the foreigners at the time the Port of Kobe was opened to the rest of the world.

▲Ben’s House is one of the oldest Ijinkan and was the home of the British aristocrat and explorer Ben Allison.

▲It contains an impressive collection of stuffed animals, including a polar bear, that Ben acquired during his world travels.

▲The Yokan Nagaya (French House) was an apartment house built for foreigners in 1904.

▲Inside there are many charming works of French art.

There are many things to see walking along these streets lined with old Western-style buildings as well as the period items displayed in them. And if you get tired you can stop by Starbucks for a rest.

The Kobe Kitano Ijinkan-gai is a place in Japan where you can feel like you have traveled back in time to a foreign country. It is the perfect place for a leisurely walk and an especially excellent spot for a date. We recommend you begin with the course we described above and then if time permits also visit some of the other old buildings in the area.

Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Photo Gallery

Last of all here is a collection of photos of other places not mentioned in the article. an you identify these photos and guess where they were taken? Try to find them when you visit the area!

▲ Hint: Does this remind you of England?

▲ Hint: This is in a garden

▲ Hint: It feels like Holmes might be here.

▲Hint: Look on the second floor of the building that has a boar in the garden

▲Hint: A Tiffany Lamp by the famous Art Nouveau glass works artist Émile Gallé. Which Ijinkan has many beautiful lights?

▲ Hint: This is a limousine related to Queen Elizabeth. And if we mention Queen Elizabeth?

▲ Hint: This is a limousine related to Queen Elizabeth. And if we mention Queen Elizabeth?

▲Hint: A room with lots of beautiful tableware.

▲ Hint: A building in which many paintings are displayed.

▲Hint: The whole building is a power spot

▲ Hint: Rabbits that look as though they came from “Alice in Wonderland” The author, Lewis Carroll, was British!

Text by: Advision