🗺️ Kobe Old Foreign Settlement神戸旧居留地

Since its opening as a port in 1868, Kobe has become one of Japan's major international trade ports. The area now known as the Old Foreign Settlement, Kobe Motomachi, was designated as a residential area for foreigners at that time. Elegant modern Western-style buildings are lined up, allowing visitors to experience charming European flair while in Japan. Today, the Old Foreign Settlement not only retains its historical appearance but has gradually developed into a fashionable spot that blends classic and innovative elements. The entire district is filled with buildings of historical and cultural significance, along with many high-end brand stores, unique overseas shops, trendy cafes, and grocery stores. At night, when the lights are on, the seaside district becomes even more romantic. Particularly worth recommending is the "Old Foreign Settlement No. 38" (舊居留地38番館). Built in 1929, No. 38 was originally the building of Citibank's Kobe branch and is now an annex of Daimaru Department Store's Kobe location. The building itself perfectly preserves the solid and stable style of the Old Foreign Settlement period, and the name "No. 38" is derived from the area code used during that time. This building, which houses numerous world-renowned luxury brands, is now a landmark of Kobe's Old Foreign Settlement.

Modern Western-style architecture is densely packed, allowing one to feel the Western charm even while in Japan. There are many high-end brand stores, unique overseas shops, fashionable cafes, and grocery stores gathered here, providing plenty of enjoyment for shopping and strolling. The romantic atmosphere is further enhanced when the lights are turned on at night. The Old Foreign Settlement No. 38 was built in 1929, with a solid and stable appearance, serving as a landmark of the Kobe Old Foreign Settlement.