Photo credit: Ruffee Cola
The Starbucks you see above is the Kobe Kitano Ijinkan store, located in a historic 19th century Western style building. The two-story structure was originally erected in 1907 for Americans residing in Kobe at the time and called the “Kitano Monogatari-kan” (lit: Kitano Story House). After being damaged in the 1995 Great Hanshin Earthquake, it was donated to the city of Kobe, which then dismantled it and reconstructed the building as a Starbucks in its current location. According to Rocket News 24, “placing your order at the first floor bar, you can choose from a variety of rooms to enjoy your drink in. There’s a spacious lounge, a dining room complete with cupboards, and even a small study that feels just like your own private refuge.” Continue reading for more things you’ll only find in Japan (and maybe other parts of Asia).