Uroko House & Uroko Museum
A historic European-style house in Kobe, famed for its unique fish-scale exterior and panoramic city views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cherry blossoms add beauty
Uroko House & Uroko Museum
Best Time
Cherry blossoms add beauty
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic European-style house in Kobe, famed for its unique fish-scale exterior and panoramic city views.
"Beautiful and unique with a breathtaking view, an enjoyable way to kill 1 or 2 hours."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up to Uroko House is steep. Prioritize comfort for the uphill climb.
💰 Cash for Souvenirs
The souvenir shop has a minimum purchase of ¥1000 for credit card use. Bring cash!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Unique Fish-Scale Exterior
Exterior
Admire the distinctive slate roof resembling fish scales, a truly unique architectural feature.
Antique European Furnishings
Interior
Explore rooms filled with antique furniture and art, once used as a rental house for foreigners.
Panoramic Kobe Views
Third Floor
Enjoy breathtaking views of Kobe city from the observation deck on the third floor.
Wild Boar Statue
Courtyard
Find the wild boar statue, believed to bring good luck to visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Climb to Uroko House
Value for Money?
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up to Uroko House is steep. Prioritize comfort for the uphill climb.
💰 Cash for Souvenirs
The souvenir shop has a minimum purchase of ¥1000 for credit card use. Bring cash!
📸 Capture the Exterior
The unique fish-scale architecture is a major draw. Don't miss photographing it!
⏳ Allow Extra Time
Factor in time for the walk, exploring the house, and enjoying the views.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up to Uroko House is steep. Prioritize comfort for the uphill climb.
💰 Cash for Souvenirs
The souvenir shop has a minimum purchase of ¥1000 for credit card use. Bring cash!
📸 Capture the Exterior
The unique fish-scale architecture is a major draw. Don't miss photographing it!
⏳ Allow Extra Time
Factor in time for the walk, exploring the house, and enjoying the views.
🧐 Check for Special Exhibits
Sometimes there are special exhibitions or events, like Halloween decorations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Uroko House is praised for its unique fish-scale architecture and the beautiful city views from its observation deck. Visitors appreciate the historical European-style interior and the lucky wild boar statue. However, some find the admission price a bit high for the museum's size, and the steep uphill walk to reach it can be challenging.
"It is in fact a hike to get there, rather steep. It is a little pricy for the size of the Museum, but it is also beautiful and unique with a breathtaking view. Not exactly a “must see” attraction, but an enjoyable way to kill 1 or 2 hours."
Mike McGovern, Esq.
"Staff is polite and the house is objectively interesting both for domestic tourists and foreigners curious to see a European style XIX century house in the middle of Japan. But the price is quite notable compared to how much you actually get to see, and the souvenir shop doesn't accept credit cards below ¥1000. Also there's only one toilet (the whole area has very few public toilets due to its eccentricity and high altitude) and it's incredibly small and dense (but I still appreciate that it was there in the first place).
You might want to ask yourself how badly you want to visit this place, especially if it entails a detour of some sort"
Hild E.
"Quite a hike to reach this place and quite expensive for a small museum but still an interesting place nonetheless. Was cool to see the interior that supposedly inspired the Tohsaka house from the fate stay night series"
Collin Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Uroko House is located in the Kitano Ijinkan district. You can reach it by walking uphill from Sannomiya Station. Be prepared for a steep climb, as many visitors note the significant hike involved. Consider taking a bus or taxi part of the way if the walk is a concern.
Parking in the Kitano Ijinkan area can be limited and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation and walk to the house.
Many visitors explore the Kitano Ijinkan area on foot, enjoying the European-style architecture. Uroko House is one of several historic buildings in the district.
Public toilets are scarce in the high-altitude Kitano Ijinkan area. While Uroko House has one, it's small. Plan accordingly.
Due to the steep inclines and historic nature of the building, navigating with a stroller might be challenging. It's best to check with the venue directly or be prepared to carry it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for Uroko House. While some visitors mention it being a bit pricey for the size, it's considered an enjoyable way to spend an hour or two.
Some visitors have mentioned using a 'happy memory pass' for free entry to certain places, though availability and specifics may vary. It's worth inquiring about any multi-attraction passes.
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the Kitano Ijinkan houses are open during daytime hours. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date information.
Tickets are typically purchased on-site at Uroko House. Advance booking is usually not required unless part of a special tour package.
Yes, Uroko House features an observation gallery on its third floor, offering panoramic views of Kobe city.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside Uroko House, allowing you to capture the antique furnishings and unique atmosphere.
The exterior with its fish-scale roof is a must-photograph. Inside, focus on the antique furniture and art. The view from the third-floor observation deck is also a great photo opportunity.
While general photography is permitted, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding restricted areas or flash photography.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos with the wild boar statue in the courtyard, which is believed to bring good luck.
Many visitors capture the unique architecture, the antique interiors, and the city views. Some also enjoy taking artistic shots of the details within the house.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Uroko House was originally built as a luxurious rental house for foreigners in the late 19th century. It's a designated National Registered Cultural Property.
The most striking feature is its exterior, covered in slate tiles that resemble fish scales, giving it the name 'Uroko' (scale).
The house displays a collection of antique furniture, ceramic wares, and art, many of which were treasured by European Royal Families.
Some visitors have noted that the interior of Uroko House is said to have inspired the Tohsaka house from the 'Fate/stay night' series.
Yes, Uroko House, like many structures in Kobe, sustained damage during the Great Hanshin Earthquake but has since been restored.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, be mindful of the steep uphill walk to reach the house, which might be tiring for younger children.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
The panoramic city views from the third floor are perfect for enjoying a moment of reflection or a romantic backdrop. While some find the admission price a bit steep for the size, the experience of exploring a historic European-style house in Japan, combined with the scenic views, can be very rewarding. It's a great addition to a day exploring the Kitano Ijinkan district, offering a blend of history, art, and beautiful vistas.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Inside, the antique furniture, art, and preserved rooms provide rich details for interior photography, allowing you to showcase the historical ambiance. Don't miss the views of Kobe city from the upper floors, which offer excellent opportunities for cityscape photography.
The courtyard with the wild boar statue also presents a charming subject. Consider visiting during different times of day to capture the changing light on the building's exterior and the city below. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Kitano Ijinkan District
Beyond Uroko House, you can discover other notable residences like the Weathercock House (Moegi House) and the European House (Yamate House). The district is best explored on foot, allowing you to appreciate the intricate details of each building and the picturesque cobblestone streets. Keep an eye out for the charming cafes and souvenir shops scattered throughout the area, offering a pleasant break during your exploration.
While the district is beautiful year-round, visiting during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) adds an extra layer of beauty, with the delicate pink blooms complementing the historic architecture.
Remember that the area is situated on a hill, so comfortable footwear is essential for navigating the inclines and enjoying your exploration to the fullest.The Unique Architecture of Uroko House
This architectural choice not only provides a visually striking appearance but also served a practical purpose, offering excellent insulation and weather protection. The texture and pattern created by the slate scales are particularly mesmerizing when viewed up close, inviting visitors to admire the craftsmanship.
Inside, Uroko House continues to impress with its collection of antique European furniture and art. These items were carefully selected and displayed to reflect the lifestyle of the foreigners who once resided here, offering a tangible connection to Kobe's cosmopolitan history. The house itself is a testament to the blend of Western and Japanese influences that characterize this historic district.
Views and Lucky Charms
From this vantage point, visitors can take in the sprawling cityscape, the harbor, and the surrounding mountains, offering a different perspective of this vibrant port city. It's a perfect spot to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of Kobe. Adding a touch of local charm, Uroko House features a wild boar statue in its courtyard. According to local belief, this statue is a bringer of good luck. Many visitors enjoy taking a photo with the boar, hoping to carry some of its fortune with them.
These elements – the stunning views and the lucky charm – contribute to the overall memorable experience at Uroko House, making it more than just a historical building but a place offering both visual delight and a touch of cultural tradition.
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