Kobe Municipal Foreign Cemetery

The Kobe Municipal Foreign Cemetery in Kita-ku is a burial ground on Mount Futatabi containing numerous graves with varied architectural designs. The grounds are arranged across landscaped slopes with pathways connecting the different sections.

The cemetery was established in 1868 during Japan's period of opening to international trade, becoming the resting place for foreign merchants, diplomats, and missionaries. This era shaped Kobe's growth as a major port with connections to the world.

The gravestones display multiple languages, religious symbols, and architectural styles that reflect the diverse international community that shaped Kobe. Walking through the grounds, you notice inscriptions and designs from many countries and faiths standing side by side.

The cemetery is accessible by public transportation and can be explored during daylight hours. Visitors should approach respectfully and obtain permission from the relevant authority before visiting the grounds.

The site holds the designation of Place of Scenic Beauty, blending burial heritage with natural landscape elements. This recognition highlights the location as a place where nature and history come together in a distinctive way.