Kobe Kitano Ijinkan

Meiji Western Architecture

When Kobe opened for foreign trade in 1868, many foreign merchants built residences in Kitano's hillside district. Over 30 Western-style houses remain, with unique mansions like "Uroko no Ie," "Weathercock House," and "England House" open for viewing and entry.

Weathercock House

The "Weathercock House (Former Thomas Residence)" is the only Important Cultural Property among the ijinkan. This brick mansion built by a German merchant in 1909 is an iconic Kobe tourist image.

Uroko no Ie (Scale House)

"Uroko no Ie" with its exterior covered in scale-shaped natural stone slates was built for a French person in the early Taisho period. The interior displays Western antiques and artworks, a worthwhile Western-style art museum.

Kitanozaka Strolling

The Kitano area has many stylish cafes, restaurants, and craft shops, enjoyable strolling combined with ijinkan tourism. Shops along "Ijinkan Street" and views of Kobe Port from the hillside are also attractions.