Kitano Ijinkan-Gai — Attraction in Kobe

Among Kitano Ijinkan-gai, I strongly recommend Thomas Gottfried's residence, so to speak "Kazamidori-house" and "Italian building", Platon Decorative Museum. Forme one has a great history supported by many people who had much to do with and the latter one is extraordinarily decorated with pure original items both outside and inside, no strange gimmick nor imitations. Especially, former inspection and study about it's history and background would make you move so much. There are much questions and curiosity, Rhenania is written on the gate, what is it?. In order to get into the reception, some stepping up is required, why ground floor is set at higher position? Why reception is decorated with Chinese style? Is there any deep story behind a specific "Table set" placed in the bay window room just inside to the left side? Exported by the volunteer servant to Germany Rhenania so secretly under the closing condition by the authority, in spite of a danger to be caught by the police. Why did they do that? The owner was satisfied and favorit with it. He obliged to go back to Germany leaving his profits, the enemy country for us while WW1. And Careful inspection on it will prove the the engineer of the furniture is not European but Japanese, interesting isn't it? Recently it was returned back to Kobe from Rhenania Germany after WW2 for the sake of courtesy by an old German lady, Mrs. Else Calbeau, single daughter of Thomas who lived her childhood at Kobe exactly here, Kazamidori house. She contributed as much as she could tracing her memories while reconstruction of the Kazamidori building in it's original condition, it's extraordinary and great work at all. Second floor commands a fine view of Kobe bey through wavy plate window glass. Why distorted scenery is observed? It was produced 100 years ago is the reason. And the same phenomena occurs when visited Murin-An situated at Kyoto Okazaki, meaning is no neighbor house and also it was built 100 years ago. As for Italian building on the Fudo slope, just it is filled with authentic decoration and furnishing, that all. Just looks beautiful and brilliant, and Genuine one with a long history and deep knowledge supported by dignity are...

Walking through the streets of Kitano Ijinkan-Gai, wr are greeted by a stunning array of beautifully preserved Western-style residences, each one a testament to the area's cosmopolitan past and architectural heritage. From elegant Victorian mansions to quaint Tudor cottages, the neighborhood's diverse architectural styles offer a glimpse into the lives and tastes of Kobe's early foreign residents.

Many of these historic homes have been lovingly restored and repurposed as museums, galleries, cafes, and boutiques, inviting visitors to step inside and explore their richly appointed interiors and fascinating exhibits. Whether admiring antique furniture, perusing art collections, or sampling gourmet cuisine, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this charming establishments.

In addition to its historic residences, Kitano Ijinkan-Gai is also home to several cultural attractions and landmarks that showcase the area's unique blend of East and West. The Kitano Meister Garden, for example, is a tranquil oasis of greenery and flowers where visitors can relax and unwind amidst the beauty of nature, while the Kobe Mosque stands as a symbol of the city's diverse...

2025 August 3.5★ An area with many historical houses from different countries. Here, you can visit many of the different architectures of early settlers.

Following the opening of the Port of Kobe, the Kitano district developed due to the influx of foreign residents who left their own countries to come and live in Kobe. The beautiful ocean views and cosmopolitan atmosphere that brought them here can still be found in this iconic area of Kobe. In the Kitano district you can experience old-fashioned foreign residences such as the 'Weathercock House', explore the quaint alleyways between classic buildings and dine restaurants serving a wide variety of international cuisines.

It's truly a nice area to visit. A must go? Hard to say, but it's nice to see. Though when it's very sunny and hot, bring...