🗺️ Irifuneyama Memorial Museum

Officially opened in 1889, the "Kure Naval Station," originally built as the residence of the Commander-in-Chief, has been preserved to this day and is now open to the public as the "Nyubenshan Memorial Museum." In 2016, it was recognized as part of Japan's heritage under the theme "Naval Stations of Yokosuka, Kure, Sasebo, and Maizuru – Experiencing the Vibrant Modernization of Japan." After being damaged by the 1905 Meiji Earthquake, it was rebuilt. The design was by Kotaro Sakurai, who at just 18 years old became the first Japanese architect recognized by the Royal Institute of British Architects. The building is now open to the public after restoration by the second generation. The architecture itself is a fusion of Japanese and Western styles, with the Western-style building serving as both the office and reception area for the Commander-in-Chief, while the Japanese-style room is designated for living quarters. In 1998, it was designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Inside the British-style office where the Commander-in-Chief conducted his duties, there are not only offices but also a reception room and a spacious dining hall, all adorned with luxurious interiors. Traditional Japanese crafts and wallpapers made of Kintōshi paper are also worth appreciating. This Kintōshi paper, resembling leather, is produced using patterns from the few remaining wallpaper designs. The museum features five distinct types of Kintōshi paper, which visitors are encouraged to admire closely. Additionally, there are historical folklore museums hosting special exhibitions, the old naval factory clock tower, and a separate building that was relocated from the residence of Admiral Heihachiro Togo during his tenure in Kure City, all of which are open for detailed exploration.

The former residence of the Commander of the Old Wu Naval Station has been converted into a museum open to the public. The current building, which features a blend of Japanese and Western architectural styles, was restored from the second generation structure and was designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 1998. The wallpaper in the Western-style building uses Kintō paper, a traditional Japanese craft. Additionally, there is a historical and folk materials museum that hosts various planned exhibitions. There is also the former residence of the Tōgō family, which was relocated and reconstructed from the house where Admiral Heihachirō Tōgō lived.