Kobe Kitano Foreign Settlement District

Flow of the course

About this spot

Spread across the hillside on Kobe's mountain side, this area flourished as a foreign settlement during the Meiji and Taisho periods. Over 30 Western-style mansions featuring British, German, French, and other architectural styles still stand, and combined with the stone-paved slopes, they evoke Kobe's distinctive exotic atmosphere. From the hilltop, you can overlook Kobe's city center and harbor, and see the Meriken Park fireworks venue in the distance during daylight. Many of the Western mansions offer paid interior tours, though the exteriors alone make for a picturesque walking course. On a clear autumn afternoon, the combination of mansions and blue sky becomes the perfect photo spot.

Tips

About 15–20 minutes walk from JR/Hanshin Motomachi Station (with slopes), or take Kobe City Bus to Kitano-cho bus stop. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to numerous slopes. Admission fees vary by mansion, with combination tickets available for visiting multiple buildings. Many mansions close in the evening, so complete your stroll by 4:30 PM and head toward Meriken Park.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes required. Afternoon side-lighting beautifully illuminates the white walls and red brick of the Western mansions.

Access & map

〒650-0002 Kitano-cho 2-chome 3, Chuo Ward, Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture