Kitano Ijinkan District

SPOT

HyogoKobe City

Kitano Ijinkan District

A popular exotic area lined with Western-style houses that tell the history after the opening of Kobe Port. Enjoy a photogenic townscape, including the Important Cultural Property "Kazamidori-no-Yakata" (Weathercock House).

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About this spot

Located on the mountain side of Kobe, the Kitano Ijinkan District is a rare and exotic sightseeing spot in Japan where Western-style houses built for foreign residents in the Meiji and Taisho eras are still preserved. Once home to many foreigners who felt the breeze blowing up from the port, the area now offers public access to uniquely individual buildings, including the Important Cultural Properties "Kazamidori-no-Yakata" (Weathercock House) and "Moegi-no-Yakata" (Moegi House). Between strolls, you can enjoy tea time at stylish cafes converted from Western houses or shop at exotic variety stores for a luxurious time. Because it sits on high ground, there are also spots where you can see the cityscape of Kobe and the sea through gaps in the streets, so simply walking with a camera in hand never gets boring. It is perfect for walking alone and reflecting on history, as well as for a girls' trip with friends, a family holiday, or a date with someone special. As there are many slopes, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Why not spend a moment away from daily life in the Kitano district, which shows a different face with each visit, from seasonal flowers to winter illuminations?

Last updated March 27, 2026

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