Uroko Museum

Updated November 18, 2024

Uroko Museum, also known as Uroko House, is a cultural gem in Kobe’s Kitano area. [Built in 1905](https://livejapan.com/en/in-kansai/in-pref-hyogo/in-kobe_sannomiya_kitano/spot-lj0009721/), it was originally a residence for foreign settlers, reflecting the city’s cosmopolitan history. The building’s distinctive facade, covered in natural slate stones resembling fish scales, earned it the nickname ‘Scale House’. Today, it stands as a [national important cultural property](https://ikidane-nippon.com/en/spots/uroko-house-and-uroko-art-museum), symbolizing Kobe’s unique East-meets-West heritage. Inside, visitors are treated to a [treasure trove of artwork](https://www.ijinkan.net/en/ijin-kan/5793), primarily featuring modern and contemporary paintings from Europe and Russia. The museum offers a dual experience: admiring the Western-influenced architecture and exploring its rich art collection, providing insights into both Kobe’s history and international art movements.

Key Highlights

– Western-style architecture with distinctive slate ‘scale’ exterior|- Collection of modern and contemporary European and Russian paintings|- [Observation gallery offering panoramic views](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g298562-d1384598-Reviews-UROKO_HOUSE_OBSERVATION_GALLERY-Kobe_Hyogo_Prefecture_Kinki.html)|- National important cultural property status|- Located in the historic Kitano Ijinkan district|- [First Western-style residence opened to the public in Kobe](http://travel-japan.jp/eng/area/urokonoie_photo.html)|- Combines architectural tour with fine art experience

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