🌏 Kobe Kitano Ijinkan Travel Guide | Must-Sees, Transportation, Food, and a Starbucks Experience in this Exotic Town

When visiting Kobe, besides enjoying the port night view and steak, Kitano Ijinkan Street is a must-see! This area, once a hub for foreigners during the Meiji era, retains many European-style buildings and is now a tourist destination brimming with history and art. This article will provide a quick overview of the historical background, transportation options, must-see attractions, and unique cafes, making it easy to plan your trip. ⸻ 🕰 History of Kitano Ijinkan • Historical Background: Following the opening of Kobe Port in the late 19th century, a large number of foreign merchants and diplomats settled in the area, building numerous Western-style residences. • Architectural Features: A blend of Western style and Japanese construction techniques creates the unique "Ijinkan Streetscape." • Preservation: Many Ijinkans have been converted into exhibition halls and are open to the public, allowing visitors to admire the original furniture, art, and architectural details. ⸻ 🚇 Getting to Kitano Ijinkan 📍 Location: Kitano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe • Subway: From Sannomiya Station or Shin-Kobe Station, walk approximately 10–15 minutes. • Bus: Take the City Loop sightseeing bus and get off at the Kitano Ijinkan stop. • Tips: Kitano is a very hilly area, so wear comfortable walking shoes. 👉 Google Map Location: Kitano Ijinkan Street ⸻ 📍 Top 5 Must-See Attractions 1. 🐓 Kazamidori-kan – A symbol of Kitano, the red brick building and the kazamidori on the roof are perfect for photo ops. 2. 💚 Moegi-no-kan – A light green Western-style building with a well-preserved interior, it exudes elegance and a dreamy atmosphere. 3. 🏰 British Pavilion – Experience British-style furniture and a Sherlock Holmes-themed room. 4. 🇫🇷 French Pavilion – A French lifestyle atmosphere, filled with exquisite furnishings. 5. ☕ Starbucks Kitano Ijinkan – A World Rare Cultural Heritage Starbucks, renovated from a century-old Western-style building, a popular photo-op! ⸻ ☕ Starbucks Kitano Ijinkan Experience • Exterior: The white and green wooden building exudes elegance and unique charm. • Interior: The second floor is divided into rooms, each with a unique atmosphere, featuring fireplaces, classic sofas, and wooden windows. • Recommendation: Order a latte and choose a window seat to enjoy "coffee time in a century-old Western-style building." 👉 Google Map Location: Starbucks Kitano Ijinkan ⸻ 🗓 Lazy Day Itinerary • Arrive at Sannomiya Station at 10:00 AM → Stroll uphill to Kitano • 10:30 AM–12:00 PM Visit Kazamidori-kan and Moegi-no-kan • 12:00 PM–1:30 PM Lunch (There are Italian restaurants and European-style cafes in the Ijinkan area) • 1:30 PM–3:00 PM British and French Pavilions • 3:00 PM–4:00 PM Enjoy afternoon tea at Starbucks Kitano Ijinkan • 4:30 PM Descend back to Sannomiya → Dinner: Kobe beef or visit the harbor for a night view ⸻ 📌 Summary Kitano Ijinkan is a charming destination that blends history, architecture, cuisine, and café culture. Strolling along the cobblestone slopes during the day and enjoying a cup of coffee in a century-old Western-style house in the afternoon is the best way to experience Kobe's exotic charm. If you only have one day in Kobe, this is definitely worth adding to your itinerary! #北野异人館