Uroko House Travel Guide

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.