Guida
The Former Sharp Residence is a historic Western-style building located in the Kitano area of Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture. It is affectionately known as "Moegi no Yakata" (The Light-Green House) due to its beautiful exterior. Built in 1903 as the residence for Hunter Sharp, the United States Consul General, the building is a two-story structure in a classic Colonial style. Unlike the heavy Neo-Baroque buildings often found nearby, it possesses a light, elegant, and graceful presence. Today, it is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, serving as a precious cultural heritage site that preserves the architectural techniques and lifestyle of that era.
The history of this residence dates back to the early 20th-century life of American diplomats. Designed by A.N. Hansel, it was constructed for the US Consul General, Hunter Sharp. Later, in 1944, the property passed from a German owner to Hideo Kobayashi, the president of Kobe Electric Railway, and remained a residence until 1978. Because of this history, it is also known as the "Kobayashi Family Residence." In 1980, the building and its vast grounds were designated as a National Important Cultural Property. While it was once referred to as the "White Mansion," the name was changed in the late 1980s after restoration work revealed that the original exterior color was actually a soft "Moegi" (light green/yellow-green).
The interior is adorned with luxurious designs from the era. Particularly striking are the two different bay window designs and the beautiful staircase decorated with intricate mosaics. These elements reflect the Baroque influence and the high level of architectural skill of the time. The second-floor sunroom is one of the building's true highlights. Bathed in bright, natural light, the sunroom offers a panoramic view of the Kobe cityscape, allowing visitors to imagine the views enjoyed by the former residents. Additionally, the building bears the marks of history, including the aftermath of the 1995 Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake; a section of the garden displays the remains of three chimneys that collapsed during the disaster.
While the scenery is beautiful throughout the seasons, visiting during the daytime when sunlight is bright is highly recommended. The moment when sunlight pours into the sunroom creates a breathtaking sight when paired with the light-green exterior. Depending on the season, you can experience the unique atmosphere of the Kitano area. Since the building closes in the evening, visiting during daylight hours is essential to fully observe the architectural details and the subtle colors.
Here, you can feel the exotic atmosphere of the Meiji and Taisho eras firsthand. The primary experience involves observing the intricate interior decorations and the architectural structures that reflect the lifestyle of the time. By viewing the earthquake-damaged chimneys in the garden, visitors can trace both the history of the building and the memory of the natural disaster. Walking through this historic structure feels like stepping back in time to the days when diplomats and residents lived their lives in this elegant setting.
The Former Sharp Residence is located within the "Kitano Ijinkan-gai," a famous district in Kobe known for its historic Western-style houses. Very close by is the "Weathercock House" (Kazamidori no Yakata), which features a more heavy Neo-Baroque style. Visiting both allows you to compare different architectural styles. The surrounding area is also filled with stylish cafes and shops, making it a perfect place to stroll, relax, and enjoy the international atmosphere of the neighborhood.
As the building contains stairs and uneven surfaces, wearing comfortable walking shoes is highly recommended. To protect this historic structure, please follow all interior rules and etiquette. Payments can be made via cash or credit card. While some English signage may be available, most services are primarily in Japanese. No advanced reservation is required, but it is recommended to check the official website before visiting, as opening hours may vary by season.