🌏 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.

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🕰 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.

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🚇 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

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📍 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!

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☕ 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

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🗓 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

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📌 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