Kobe Kitano-cho (also known as Kitano Ijinkan) is an area once inhabited by influential foreigners living in Japan at the start of the Twentieth Century. With lovely old European style mansions nestled into the hillsides, it still retains a Taisho Era atmosphere and attracts many visitors. There is a historic walking trail that goes from JR Sannomiya Station to Tenman Shrine. You can enjoy this area by just strolling around, as I did, or you can visit some of the many museums in the area. Don't forget to look out for the unusual Starbucks in a beautiful old green and white mansion!
Exploring Kitano Ijinkan in Kobe
Tangible traces of European influence in Taisho Japan
