In Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture is the Kitano Art Museum, housed in a building once used as an American consulate. In Kobe's Kitanozaka district (北野坂地区) are western-style residents called Ijinkan. There are a number of these mansions standing in rows, clinging to life since when they were originally constructed near the end of the Shogunate period and beginning of the Meiji era. Maintenance and care of the buildings has been an issue, but tourism resources and private donations are alleviating some of the problems.
Even among the rows of charming Ijinkan, the beauty of the Kitano Art Museum stands out. The Kitanozaka district of Kobe City has friendly relations with the Monmarte district in Paris, France. Exchange activities are ongoing. The Kitano Art Museum frequently hosts exhibitions featuring painters from Montamarte, generally creating a great amount of interest from art fans.
