🗺️ Meiji Mura Museum博物館 明治村

Meiji Mura Museum is an outdoor museum that opened in 1965, set against the backdrop of the Meiji era. It relocates, preserves, and displays historical buildings that hold artistic and historical value. Visitors can closely observe 11 historical buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Among the popular attractions is the "Imperial Hotel Central Entrance," designed by the famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Completed in 1918, the entire building is adorned with beautifully crafted geometric carvings and hollowed-out red clay. Additionally, there are important cultural properties such as St. John's Church, which was relocated here, as well as buildings deeply connected to prominent figures from the Meiji era, including the residences of literary giants Sōseki Natsume and Ogai Mori, as well as the former home of novelist Rohan Koda, known as "Snail Cottage." Not only are the buildings themselves captivating, but the preserved furniture and decorations from the past also evoke a sense of nostalgia. Meiji Mura covers a vast area with numerous attractions. A visit to just the Important Cultural Properties takes about three and a half hours, while exploring the buildings related to Meiji-era figures requires approximately two hours. Therefore, if you wish to explore the entire park, a full day may not be sufficient, and it is advisable to plan your itinerary in advance. Meiji Mura offers three modes of transportation: a vintage steam train, a streetcar, or a village bus. Here, you can also savor unique dishes inspired by the Meiji era. In addition to enjoying beef hot pot, omelet rice, and beef stew at the Meiji Western-style restaurant, you can also try innovative crepes and curry bread that recreate recipes featured in novels from the Meiji period—delicacies that can only be found in Meiji Mura.

You can closely observe and experience the highly valuable architecture from the Meiji era, both in terms of art and history. The expansive grounds feature over 60 cultural properties, allowing for a full day of exploration. You can also enjoy retro-style cuisine. It is recommended to change into clothing from the Meiji era and wear the popular kimono-style pants to take photos, immersing yourself in the atmosphere as if you have traveled back in time.