Dutch Museum and Fragrance House

The Dutch Museum (香りの家オランダ館), nestled in Kobe’s picturesque Kitano district, is a beautifully restored Western-style residence that once served as the home of the Dutch Consul General. This historic building pays tribute to over four centuries of cultural exchange between Japan and the Netherlands. Inside, visitors are transported to another era as they explore rooms filled with authentic Dutch furniture, antique tableware, and household items that reflect daily life in the Netherlands in centuries past. Informative exhibits and curated artifacts highlight the enduring diplomatic and trade relationships that have shaped both nations—from Edo-period encounters to modern-day partnerships. The warm, lived-in ambiance makes it feel less like a museum and more like stepping into a Dutch home preserved in time.

Enhancing its charm is the museum’s multisensory fragrance experience, which invites guests to explore the Dutch tradition of perfumery. In the dedicated scent room, visitors can participate in hands-on workshops to create their own original perfumes by blending essential oils and fragrances—a creative and personalized activity. This interactive element adds a playful and memorable dimension to the visit. A boutique gift shop completes the experience, offering aromatic soaps, handcrafted perfumes, and Dutch-inspired souvenirs that make for thoughtful keepsakes. The Dutch Museum offers more than just historical insight—it invites travelers to engage with Dutch culture through sight, scent, and touch, making it a standout destination in Kobe’s Ijinkan area.