Enjoy lunch and sweets in a former elementary school building with hands-on craft experiences and souvenir shopping
About this spot
Established in 1998 using the restored building of the former Kitano Elementary School, this is an experience-focused artisan community. The early Showa-era school building retains strong retro character, with wooden staircases and an auditorium that evoke nostalgic feelings just from walking the hallways. Former classrooms now house shops selling Kobe-born sweets, bread, coffee, and leather goods, allowing you to enjoy snacking and souvenir shopping in one place. Hands-on craft experiences such as accessory-making are also available, letting you create travel memories with your own hands. As a perfect conclusion to your mansion tour, this is an ideal spot to take a leisurely break with late lunch and sweets while enjoying unhurried time together.
Tips
Located along Toa Road, about a 12-minute walk from Motomachi Station or about 15 minutes downhill from the Kitano mansion district. Admission is free; however, popular hands-on craft activities may have same-day slots filled, so advance booking or early registration upon arrival is recommended. The dedicated parking lot is limited, so public transportation is advisable.
Best time to visit
Approximately 2.5 hours required. Afternoons allow leisurely exploration of sweets and hands-on craft experiences after lunch.
Access & map
〒650-0004 Hyogo Prefecture, Kobe, Chuo Ward, Nakayamate-dori 3-chome 17; 〒650-0003 3-chome 17-1
Model course featuring this spot
Kobe Kitano Ijinkan District: Historical Western Houses and Sloped Streets
Hyogo
Explore features & model courses
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