🗺️ Bank of Japan Old Otaru Branch Financial Museum日本銀行旧小樽支店金融資料館

The Bank of Japan Otaru Branch was completed in 1912 (Meiji 45), and this historic building is now used as a museum. Designed by Tatsuno Kingo, who is famous for the red brick architecture of Tokyo Station, along with his disciples, the building still retains the beautiful Renaissance style from that time and has been designated as a cultural asset by the city of Otaru. Inside the museum, which is filled with the atmosphere of historic buildings, the history of the Bank of Japan, its business operations, and the financial system are introduced in an easy-to-understand manner. In the "Business Exhibition Area," the unique characteristic of the Bank of Japan as the only institution in Japan authorized to issue currency is highlighted, with detailed explanations of various techniques to prevent counterfeiting and the lifespan of banknotes. Additionally, the "Audiovisual Room" regularly screens three original films that concisely introduce the operations of the Bank of Japan and knowledge related to banknotes. A guided tour conducted by staff is held every day from 2 PM to 3 PM, which has also received high praise (approximately 30 minutes long).

The historical building completed in the 45th year of the Meiji era (1912) has been converted into a museum. Guided tours explained by staff do not require a reservation, with about 20 participants per session. Flash photography and tripods are not allowed. Visitors can also experience holding a simulated banknote of 100 million yen in the safe, which is still in use as of the 14th year of the Heisei era (2002).