Coexistence with foreigners and the value of the inherited residential environment in the Showa era

focus on Shioya, Tarumi-ku Kobe

Abstract

In Shioya, Kobe, where many foreigners have lived since late Meiji, still exist a foreigners residential area called James-yama, developed in the early Showa. Today, younger generations move and open new shops, creating a symbiosis between old and new residents. This study, through interviews with local residents, revealed that although direct relationship with foreigners were restricted, the increase in the number of foreigners created jobs and the belief in James-yama protecting Shioya from air raid made people feel familiar to foreigners. This acceptance of different cultures cultivated through coexistence with foreigners has been carried over to Shioya today.