Uroko House: Kobe's Fish Scale Mansion
Explore Uroko House in Kobe's Kitano district: A unique Western-style mansion with antique collections and panoramic city views.
Uroko House stands as a unique landmark in Kobe's Kitano Ijinkan district, a neighborhood known for its well-preserved Western-style homes. The house, whose name translates to 'House of Scales', is distinguished by its exterior covered in natural slate tiles that resemble fish scales. Built around 1905, it originally served as a luxurious rental residence for foreigners after the Port of Kobe opened to international trade. Inside Uroko House, visitors can view a collection of 19th-century European antiques, including furniture, pottery, and exquisite chandeliers. The adjacent Uroko Museum displays Western paintings from naturalism to modern art, including works by Masaru Horie. From the third floor, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kobe and its harbor. The house is also known as a popular dating spot due to its charming grass garden and sea view. Uroko House was the first of the Kitano Ijinkan to open to the public, becoming a symbol of the area's unique blend of Japanese and Western cultures. Today, it is a nationally registered tangible cultural property, offering a glimpse into Kobe's international past.
Local tips
- Purchase a combination ticket to save money if you plan to visit multiple Ijinkan houses in the Kitano district.
- Rub the nose of the wild boar statue in the yard for good luck.
- Visit in the late afternoon for fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience.
- Check the official website for special events or exhibitions that may be taking place during your visit.
A brief summary to Uroko House
- 2 Chome-20-4 Kitanocho, Kobe, 2 Chome Kitanocho, Chuo Ward, Hyogo, 650-0002, JP
- +81120-888-581
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Getting There
-
Walking
From Sannomiya Station, Uroko House is approximately a 15-minute uphill walk. Head north towards the Kitano district, following the signs for Kitano Ijinkan. The walk is uphill, so wear comfortable shoes. As you approach the Kitano area, you'll see the distinct Western-style houses. Uroko House is located on a hill, and is hard to miss due to its unique fish-scale-like exterior.
-
Public Transport
From Sannomiya Station, take the Kobe City Loop bus to the Kitano Ijinkan stop. The bus ride takes about 5 minutes and costs 300 yen per ride. From the Kitano Ijinkan bus stop, Uroko House is a short walk away. Look for the distinctive building with the fish-scale-like exterior.
-
Taxi
From Sannomiya Station, a taxi to Uroko House takes approximately 1 minute and costs between 1100-1400 yen. Tell the driver you want to go to 'Uroko House' in Kitano (北野異人館 うろこの家). Be aware that traffic can be heavier on weekends and holidays.
Attractions Nearby to Uroko House
-
Uroko Museum
-
Kitano Gaikokujin Club
-
Kitano Tenman Shrine
-
Minato Miharashidai
-
Kitanocho
-
Weathercock House (The Former Thomas House)
-
Kobe Kitano Museum
-
Kitanochō Square
-
Kobe Trick Art Museum
-
Kitano Ijinkan-Gai
-
The English House
-
Moegi House
-
Kitano Trail
-
Kobe Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Ropeway
-
Kobe Central Catholic Church of the Holy Spirit
