A pale mint-green mansion with a second-floor balcony overlooking Kobe's cityscape and harbor
About this spot
Built in 1903 as the residence of the American Consul General Hunter Sharp, this Western mansion is designated as an Important Cultural Property. True to its name, the pale mint-green board-and-batten exterior is charming, and elegant Meiji-era architectural features remain throughout, including the open balcony and distinctive bay windows. The highlight is the view from the second-floor balcony, which overlooks the rooftops of the sloped neighborhood and stretches to Kobe's cityscape and harbor beyond. The garden displays a chimney that fell from the roof during the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake—a quiet testament to the mansion's history of resilience. Unlike the vibrant atmosphere of Weathercock House, this mansion exudes a calm and refined elegance.
Tips
Located directly next to Weathercock House, just a one-minute walk along Kitano-cho Square. Besides individual admission tickets, combination tickets with Weathercock House are available and convenient if visiting both. The second-floor balcony is a popular photo spot—please respect other visitors while enjoying the harbor views. Note that the stairs inside are somewhat steep, so watch your footing.
Best time to visit
Approximately 45 minutes required. The mint-green exterior looks most beautiful in the morning sunlight when front-lit.
Access & map
〒650-0002 Hyogo Prefecture, Kobe, Chuo Ward, Kitano-cho 3-chome 10-10-11
Model course featuring this spot
Kobe Kitano Ijinkan District: Historical Western Houses and Sloped Streets
Hyogo
Explore features & model courses
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