Hassam House: A Colonial Gem in Kobe's Sorakuen Garden
Explore the beautifully preserved Hassam House, a colonial-era mansion, within the tranquil Japanese landscape of Kobe's Sorakuen Garden.
The Hassam House, nestled within the tranquil Sorakuen Garden, offers a unique blend of Western architecture and Japanese landscape design. Originally constructed in 1902 for Mr. J.K. Hassam, an Indian-British trader, the house exemplifies the fusion of Eastern and Western influences prevalent in Kobe during the Meiji period. The building was moved from Kobe's Kitano district to its current location in 1963. The house itself is a colonnade-style mansion with striking white walls and pillars. While the interior is sparsely furnished, the architecture and historical context provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of foreign residents in Kobe during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The entrance boasts Japan's oldest gaslight, dating back to 1874, adding to the historical charm. A chimney that fell from the roof during the Great Hanshin Earthquake is displayed in the front yard. Sorakuen Garden, where the Hassam House is located, provides a beautiful setting with traditional Japanese landscaping. Visitors can stroll through the garden, admiring the koi-filled pond, stone bridges, and meticulously arranged plants. Other notable features within the garden include a European-style stable, a camphor tree said to be 500 years old, and a houseboat.
Local tips
- Check the Sorakuen Garden's opening hours before visiting, as it's closed on Thursdays.
- Combine your visit to Hassam House with a stroll through the rest of Sorakuen Garden to fully appreciate the blend of Japanese and Western elements.
- Look for the oldest gas light in Japan at the entrance of the Hassam House.
A brief summary to The Hassam House
- 5 Chome-3-1 Nakayamatedori, Kobe, 5 Chome Nakayamatedori, Chuo Ward, Hyogo, 650-0004, JP
- +8178-351-5155
Getting There
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Walking
From Motomachi Station (JR and Hanshin Railways), walk north for approximately 10 minutes to reach Sorakuen Garden, where the Hassam House is located. From Kencho-mae Station (Kobe Subway), walk north for about 5 minutes. The garden entrance is clearly marked.
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Public Transport
Take the Kobe City Loop bus and disembark near Sorakuen Garden. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the garden entrance. The Kobe City Loop bus costs 260 yen for one ride or 660 yen for a day pass.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Kobe. A short taxi ride from Sannomiya Station to Sorakuen Garden will cost approximately 800-1000 yen, depending on traffic.
