Kitano Foreign District
Category: Historic Attraction & Neighborhood
Location: Historic hillside district north of central shopping area with Victorian-era houses
Address: Kitano-cho, Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi, Hyogo (multiple historic houses)
Transportation: 15-minute taxi, 49-minute subway or 75-minute walk from conference venue (recommend taxi due to uphill climb)
Why it’s a must-see
The Kitano Foreign District is a unique glimpse into Japan’s Meiji period (1868-1912) when foreign diplomats and merchants built Western-style houses on this hillside. It’s like stepping into a different world - Victorian and colonial architecture nestled into a Japanese hillside with stunning views over Kobe.
What makes it special
- Historic preservation: Over 30 original foreign residences from the 1800s
- Architectural diversity: German, English, American, French styles
- Museum houses: Many are open for tours with period furnishings
- Scenic views: Beautiful overlooks of Kobe harbor and city
- Cultural fusion: Perfect example of Meiji-era internationalization
Perfect for TPAC attendees
- Conference break: Perfect afternoon escape from technical sessions
- Cultural context: Understanding Japan’s history of international cooperation
- Photography: Stunning architecture and city views for social media
- Walking meetings: Quiet, scenic area perfect for informal discussions
- International perspective: Relevant to W3C’s global community
Key houses to visit
Weathercock House (Kazamidori-no-ie)
- German merchant’s residence from 1904
- Iconic weathercock on top - symbol of Kitano
- Beautiful Art Nouveau interiors
- Entry: ¥500
Uroko House
- Covered in fish-scale tiles (uroko means scales)
- Contains antique furniture and artworks
- Great harbor views from the grounds
- Entry: ¥1,050
English House
- Victorian-style mansion with period furnishings
- Beautiful gardens perfect for photos
- Sherlock Holmes memorabilia collection
- Entry: ¥750
Pro tips for conference attendees
- Timing: 2-3 hours for a good visit (perfect afternoon break)
- Combination tickets: Save money with multi-house passes
- Comfortable shoes: Hillside location involves walking and stairs
- Best views: Late afternoon lighting is spectacular for photos
- Quiet spot: Perfect for phone calls with international colleagues
Getting there from venue
- Take Port Liner to Sannomiya Station (13 min)
- Walk north toward the hillside (10 min uphill)
- Follow signs to “Kitano” or “Ijinkan” (foreign houses)
- Cable car available if you prefer not to walk uphill
Conference value
- Cultural immersion: Experience Japan’s international history
- Networking: Unique venue for walking meetings with stunning backdrops
- Photo opportunities: Great for professional headshots with historic architecture
- Mental break: Peaceful escape from intensive technical sessions
- Local insight: Understanding Kobe’s role as international port city
Nearby amenities
- Kitano Starbucks: In a converted foreign house - unique atmosphere
- Local cafes: Several coffee shops with harbor views
- Souvenir shops: Unique gifts and crafts from local artisans
- Restaurants: Both Western and Japanese options
Best times to visit
- Morning (9:00-11:00): Fewer crowds, good lighting
- Afternoon (14:00-16:00): Perfect conference break timing
- Early evening (16:00-18:00): Beautiful sunset views over harbor
Weather considerations
- Rainy days: Some houses have covered areas, but outdoor walking involved
- Hot weather: Uphill walk can be tiring - bring water
- Winter: Views are clear, but dress warmly for outdoor portions