Okawa City Museum of History and Folklore, Okawa, Japan - Image 1
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Okawa City Museum of History and Folklore Okawa Japan

4.4
·234 reviews·Kiryu, Japan

A former military facility turned museum, showcasing Okawa's history, folklore, and a remarkable art collection, including an A-bombed building.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more reflection

CrowdLow
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Okawa City Museum of History and Folklore, Okawa, Japan - Image 1

Okawa City Museum of History and Folklore Okawa Japan

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more reflection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A former military facility turned museum, showcasing Okawa's history, folklore, and a remarkable art collection, including an A-bombed building.

4.4
(234 reviews)

"The museum is larger than it appears, with a spacious interior and a blend of history and art."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of stairs and slopes! Good for exercise, but be prepared. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

The museum is larger than it appears, with many exhibits to explore. Don't rush your visit. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The A-Bombed Building

The A-Bombed Building

Exterior and specific exhibits

A stark reminder of history, this building stands as a testament to resilience and remembrance.

Local Life and History Exhibits

Local Life and History Exhibits

Various galleries

Discover the rich tapestry of Okawa's past, from military history to everyday life.

Art Collection

Art Collection

Dedicated art galleries

Explore a diverse collection, including works by renowned artists and local treasures.

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Planning Your Visit

A Journey Through Time and Resilience

This museum, housed in a former military facility, offers a poignant look at local history and the impact of the atomic bomb. Prepare for a moving experience that blends historical artifacts with powerful narratives. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully absorb the exhibits.

Navigating the Slopes

The museum's unique design utilizes the natural topography, meaning there are many stairs and slopes. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a bit of a workout. While it enhances the viewing experience, it might be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more reflection
Crowd
Low
When
Late spring
Why
Pleasant weather, blooming flowers
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

異空間、無限城。 Like Infinity Castle of Demon Slayer. . 📍大川荘 Okawa-So (予約は緑色の場所タグから↖︎) . 無限城のような世界観と話題の宿にやっと行けました。 本当に美しい建築と雰囲気で、 この空間で三味線の生演奏を聴けるのも格別でした。 . 食事も美味しく部屋も綺麗で、 とてもいいお宿でした! 比較的手頃な価格なので、 とてもおすすめです😌✨ . #大川荘 #福島 #福島県 #芦ノ牧温泉 #旅館 #鬼滅 #鬼滅の刃 #無限城 #猗窩座 #冬と春のホテルキャンペーン #demonslayer #kimetsunoyaiba #kimetsu #infinitycastle #japantravel
@___utsusemi___
657.3K likes • 15.7M views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of stairs and slopes! Good for exercise, but be prepared. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

The museum is larger than it appears, with many exhibits to explore. Don't rush your visit. :clock1:

広島市郷土資料館 (被爆建物) 明治44年に建てられた旧陸軍施設で、現在は広島の人々の暮らしにかかわる歴史をテーマとした博物館です。1985年5月開館。 Hiroshima Museum of Traditional Provincial Industry It was built in 1911 as an army facility and is now a history museum related to the lives of the people in Hiroshima. It's an A-bombed building. Opened in May 1985. #広島市郷土資料館 #宇品陸軍糧秣支廠 #食糧 #缶詰 #陸軍 #郷土資料館 #博物館 #被爆建物 #原爆 #広島市民球場 #宇品 #広島 #museum #facility #traditional ...
tsubame_kotsu
362 likes • 0 views
Was eine Atombombe verursachen kann 😢 die schlimmsten Bilder möchte ich nicht zeigen. #hiroshima #hiroshimacitymuseumofhistory lohnt sich zu besuchen #japan #lovetravel #lovejapan #travel #traveling #travelblogger #travler #atomicbomb #asia #atombomb #pearlharbor #traveltheworld #peas #travellover
mm_in_ffm
184 likes • 0 views

Check for Special Exhibitions

They often host unique temporary exhibits, adding extra value to your visit. :sparkles:

Enjoy the View

The museum's location offers beautiful scenic views, especially from higher levels. :mountain_snow:

今日は我慢のイチニチだった。💦 宇品に行く用事があり、郷土資料館の裏に水仙の花が咲いてました。🌼✨ 私が写真を撮ると、通り掛かった年配の女性もスマートフォンで撮影してました。 明日から2月最終週。 諦めないでぼちぼちね。 #narcissus #水仙 #水仙の花 #広島市郷土資料館 #panasonic #lumix #tz95 #vsco #加工画像 #flower #flowerstagram #花
kackey_
145 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Lots of stairs and slopes! Good for exercise, but be prepared. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

The museum is larger than it appears, with many exhibits to explore. Don't rush your visit. :clock1:

Check for Special Exhibitions

They often host unique temporary exhibits, adding extra value to your visit. :sparkles:

Enjoy the View

The museum's location offers beautiful scenic views, especially from higher levels. :mountain_snow:

Cafe with a View

Grab a coffee at the cafe and enjoy the panoramic scenery. :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(234 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Okawa City Museum of History and Folklore for its surprisingly large interior, unique architecture that utilizes the natural topography, and its significant historical and artistic collections. The poignant exhibits, especially those related to the A-bombed building and the founder's art curation, leave a lasting impression. Some find the admission fee a bit high given the daily efforts involved, and the numerous stairs can be a challenge for those with mobility issues.

"Good place. At first glance, it looks like to be a small museum. But the inside of the building has large space by stepped multi-level. (^^)d"

ken Heineken beer

"The Okawa Art Museum, home to a collection unparalleled among private art museums in the prefecture, is located halfway up Mt. Suido, offers excellent views, and seems to blend in with nature. It has also been the site of imperial visits in the past, making it a memorable place to visit.
The museum's founding director, Mr. Okawa, was the chairman of Daiei and a connoisseur of design, and he has collected numerous works, from Impressionist artists like Picasso and Renoir to contemporary art.
Because the museum is located on a slope, the exhibits are displayed down a staircase, making the facility much larger than it appears, and the artworks are easier to view, revealing a carefully designed design.
While the admission fee is somewhat insignificant given the number of exhibits, it's clear that the daily efforts of those involved are responsible for displaying and maintaining such a fine collection of art."

小板橋崇

"This is a great museum. The planning is excellent, and above all, I can sympathize with Matsumoto Shunsuke's great love. I was fascinated by the recreation of his studio, as I had never known it existed. With permission from the family, I splurged and bought the art book he had inherited, which was on sale. It contains his entire career and is well worth seeing. Every time I open it, I feel calm as I gaze upon the overlapping lines and composition.
I also like the story of the founder, in which his maid expresses regret over a painting that had been sold. It teaches me the joy of looking at art. The collection of masks from around the world is also impressive. I hope it remains there forever.
The slight slopes are also good exercise."

加藤篤志

What People Like

Spacious interior design
Historical significance
Impressive art collection

What People Dislike

Many stairs/slopes
Admission fee perception

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located halfway up Mt. Suido. The road leading to it can be steep and narrow, so drive carefully. Parking is available at the Suidoyama Park parking lot, with additional spaces slightly above the museum. :car: Reddit

While specific details on public transport routes are scarce, it's generally recommended to check local bus schedules for access to the Mt. Suido area. Tsubame Kotsu is mentioned in relation to the museum, so they might offer relevant services. :bus: Instagram

There is a parking lot at Suidoyama Park, and additional parking is available slightly above the museum. Be mindful of the steep and narrow access road. :parking: Reddit

Due to its design utilizing the topography, the museum has many stairs and slopes, which may be difficult for individuals with walking problems. :walking: Reddit

Yes, the museum is a significant historical site and can be incorporated into a day trip from Hiroshima, offering a deeper understanding of the region's past. :day_trip: Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees can vary, especially during special events or renovations. It's advisable to check their official website or recent visitor information. One review mentioned a half-price reopening fee of 500 yen. :ticket: Reddit

During special reopening periods or for certain events, discounts like half-price admission may be offered. It's worth checking for any ongoing promotions before your visit. :moneywithwings: Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally and may be affected by special events. It's best to confirm the current opening and closing times on their official website or by contacting the museum directly. :hourglassflowingsand:

Advance booking is generally not required for regular visits, but it's always a good idea to check if there are any special exhibitions or events that might recommend or require pre-purchased tickets. :computer: TikTok

Weekday mornings, especially outside of peak holiday seasons, tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more contemplative experience. :peopleholdinghands: Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The museum is built into a hillside, utilizing the natural topography. This results in a multi-level interior with many stairs, making it much larger than it appears from the outside. :building_construction: Reddit

You can expect a diverse range of exhibits, including historical artifacts related to Okawa's past, military history from its time as an army facility, and a significant art collection featuring both local and international artists. :art: InstagramReddit

While the historical and artistic content can be educational, the numerous stairs and slopes might pose a challenge for very young children or those with mobility issues. Parents should consider this when planning their visit. :child: Reddit

Photography is generally allowed in many areas, but it's always best to check for specific restrictions within certain exhibits or galleries. The architecture and views offer great photo potential. :camerawithflash: Instagram+1

The museum is housed in a building that survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. It serves as a powerful reminder of the city's history and resilience, offering a poignant historical perspective. :peace_symbol: Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is an in-house cafe where you can enjoy blended coffee, reportedly inspired by the paintings on display. It's a nice spot to relax and take in the views. :cafe: Reddit

The cafe primarily offers coffee and likely light refreshments. It's a good place to rest and enjoy the ambiance rather than a full meal. :coffee: Reddit

Information on dining options immediately surrounding the museum is limited. It's advisable to plan for meals in the nearby city center or pack snacks if you intend to spend a significant amount of time exploring the area. :forkandknife:

While not explicitly stated, it's generally good practice to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or outside the museum galleries to preserve the exhibits. :apple: TikTok

The cafe's focus seems to be on coffee inspired by art. For local Okawa specialties, you would likely need to explore restaurants in the city center. :rice_ball:

📸 📸 Photography

The museum's unique architecture, the views from its elevated position, and the art exhibits themselves offer numerous photographic opportunities. The exterior red brick structure is also quite photogenic. :camera: Instagram+1

While many areas allow photography, it's always wise to look for signage indicating 'no photography' zones, especially for specific artworks or sensitive exhibits. :noentrysign: Instagram

A versatile camera, whether a DSLR, mirrorless, or even a good smartphone, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the architecture and landscapes, and a prime lens for art details. :camerawithflash: Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around cultural heritage sites and museums due to privacy and safety concerns. It's highly unlikely to be permitted. :drone: Instagram

Weekday mornings can offer softer light and fewer people, making for more relaxed photography sessions. The exterior can also be beautiful during golden hour, though access might be limited after closing. :sunriseovermountains: Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Okawa City Museum of History and Folklore offers educational content, the numerous stairs and slopes might make it challenging for families with very young children or strollers. Reddit Parents should be prepared for a bit of an incline and ensure children are supervised closely. The historical exhibits, particularly those related to daily life, could be engaging for older children who can appreciate the context. Consider focusing on specific galleries that might capture their interest, like the art collection or displays of historical objects. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs

This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Japanese military history, the impact of the atomic bomb, and local Okawa history. The building itself, a former army facility and an A-bombed structure, is a significant historical artifact. Instagram+2 Explore the detailed exhibits on the Ujina Army Food Branch Headquarters and the poignant displays related to the bombing's aftermath. The art collection, with its focus on influential artists and the founder's vision, adds another rich layer to the historical narrative. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Art lovers will appreciate the museum's diverse collection, curated with a discerning eye by its founder. From Impressionist masters like Picasso and Renoir to contemporary works and the unique recreation of artist Matsumoto Shunsuke's studio, there's a wide range to explore. Reddit The museum's unique architecture, utilizing the natural landscape, also provides an interesting backdrop for viewing art, making the experience both visually stimulating and culturally enriching. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of the Building

The Okawa City Museum of History and Folklore is uniquely situated within a former military facility, specifically the Ujina Army Food Branch Headquarters built during the Meiji era. This historical context is crucial to understanding the museum's exhibits and its poignant connection to Japan's past. The building itself is a significant artifact, having survived the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, serving as a powerful symbol of resilience and remembrance. Instagram+2

Visitors can explore displays that delve into the military history of the site, offering insights into the lives of soldiers and the strategic importance of the facility. This aspect provides a different perspective on Japanese history, moving beyond the more commonly discussed periods. The A-bombed building status adds a layer of solemnity and historical weight to the visit, making it a deeply moving experience for many. Instagram+2

The museum's design cleverly incorporates the building's original structure and the surrounding topography. This integration allows for a multi-level exhibition space that feels much larger than its exterior suggests. The blend of historical architecture with modern museum practices creates a compelling environment for learning about Okawa's past and its place within broader Japanese history. Understanding the building's past enriches the appreciation of the artifacts and stories housed within. InstagramReddit

Artistic Treasures and the Founder's Vision

Beyond its historical significance, the Okawa City Museum of History and Folklore boasts an impressive art collection, largely curated by its founding director, Mr. Okawa. He was not only the chairman of Daiei but also a noted connoisseur of design, which is reflected in the diverse and high-quality artworks amassed. The collection spans from renowned Impressionist masters like Picasso and Renoir to contemporary pieces, showcasing a broad artistic spectrum. Reddit

A particularly touching aspect highlighted by visitors is the recreation of artist Matsumoto Shunsuke's studio. This exhibit allows patrons to connect with the artist's creative process and personal space, offering a unique glimpse into the life of a significant figure in Japanese art. The museum's commitment to preserving and presenting such personal artistic environments adds a deeply human element to the collection. Reddit

The museum's unique layout, utilizing the natural slopes, enhances the viewing experience of the art. Exhibits are displayed down staircases, creating a dynamic flow through the galleries. This thoughtful design ensures that artworks are presented in a way that is both accessible and engaging, allowing visitors to appreciate the carefully curated collection and the founder's discerning eye for art. InstagramReddit

Experiencing Okawa's Folklore and Daily Life

The museum serves as a vital repository for the folklore and everyday life of Okawa City. Through its exhibits, visitors can gain a tangible understanding of the region's cultural heritage and the evolution of its communities. These displays often feature artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts that paint a vivid picture of past lifestyles. Instagram

From traditional crafts to historical tools and personal belongings, the museum brings the stories of Okawa's residents to life. This focus on local history provides a grounded perspective, complementing the broader narratives of military history and art. It allows visitors to connect with the human element of the region's past, understanding the challenges and joys of daily life through the ages. Instagram+1

By preserving and showcasing these aspects of folklore and daily life, the museum ensures that the unique cultural identity of Okawa is passed down to future generations. It's a place where history is not just observed but felt, offering a rich and immersive experience for anyone interested in the authentic cultural tapestry of Japan. Instagram