This was the second house I visited in Kobe Kitano Ijinkan. It is often visited in combination with the ‘Green House,’ and deciding to explore both places together seemed economical. By purchasing a two-ticket pass, you can visit both the ‘Green House’ and the ‘House of the Wind Direction’ for 650 yen.
“The Residence of German Merchant Carl Friedrich Thomas”
The ‘House of the Wind Direction’ served as the residence of German merchant Carl Friedrich Thomas in 1909. It stands out among the Western-style houses remaining in Kitano Ijinkan as the only brick building, with a weather vane perched on a sharply rising spire becoming the symbol of Kitano Ijinkan. Thanks to this, the house is also known by the alias ‘House of the Wind Direction.’
Rather than vibrant colors, the interiors exude a calm and stable atmosphere with weighty brown tones. Similar to the ‘Green House,’ it is a two-story structure and is designated as an important cultural property by the government.
“Admission Ticket Required Building”
Like the ‘Green House,’ admission to the ‘House of the Wind Direction’ requires purchasing a ticket. You can enter for 500 yen if only visiting the ‘House of the Wind Direction.’ However, if you buy a two-ticket pass to visit both houses, it costs 650 yen, making it more economical.
Since I had already purchased a two-ticket pass at the ‘Green House,’ I could visit the ‘House of the Wind Direction’ without buying a separate ticket.
“A More Elegant Atmosphere in the House of the Wind Direction”
Certainly, the ‘House of the Wind Direction’ had a more elegant atmosphere compared to the ‘Green House.’ This might be attributed to the difference between a house made of wood and one constructed with bricks. While the wooden house had its charm, the brick house undeniably conveyed a more reassuring feeling.
The space also felt a bit more expansive than the ‘Green House.’ Additionally, on the ground floor, a person who seemed to be a caretaker greeted visitors, providing explanations each time someone arrived. This lively interaction made the experience feel more vibrant than the ‘Green House.’
“Portraits of Former Residents Exhibited in the House”
Furthermore, the ‘House of the Wind Direction’ displayed portraits of individuals who had lived in the house in the past, creating an atmosphere where you could clearly identify the former owners.
“A Gift Shop in the House of the Wind Direction”
Unlike the ‘Green House,’ the ‘House of the Wind Direction’ had a souvenir shop on the second floor. As I was nearing the end of my trip to Kobe, I wanted to find a memento to commemorate my travels. I ended up making a small purchase, buying a pencil sharpener shaped like a musical instrument, fitting for the jazz city of Kobe. I also bought a keychain with the pattern of the weather vane from the ‘House of the Wind Direction.’
The prices for souvenirs were reasonable. However, on the other hand, I couldn’t help but feel that it would have been nicer if, instead of requiring additional payments for entrance and souvenirs, they could offer small souvenirs included in the admission fee. Paying twice, once for entry and then again for a memento, left a somewhat unsatisfied feeling.
“Kobe Kitano Ijinkan, House of the Wind Direction”
- Address: 3 Chome-13-3 Kitanocho, Chuo Ward, Kobe, Hyogo 650-0002, Japan
- Phone: +81782423223
- Website: Kitano Ijinkan – House of the Wind Direction
- Operating Hours: 9:00 – 18:00