Name: Bunshokan, Yamagata Prefecture Local Museum
Prefecture: Yamagata Prefecture
Area name: Yamagata City

The clock tower of the second oldest old county hall in the Japan

There are many buildings in the city that are built in the Meiji and Taisho PERIODS.In the Sun-cho area of Yamagata City, where the street continues from the Edo period still remains, there is the Yamagata Provincial Museum “Sho-kan” where the heavy figure is remarkably noticeable.Built in 1916, it was used as the prefectural government building and the Prefectural Assembly house until 1975, and the United Kingdom Early Modern Revival style buildings are designated as important cultural properties of the country.

The clock tower of the old Town hall, which is also a symbol of the building, is the second oldest in the tower clock running in the Japan, the next to Sapporo City clock stand in Hokkaido.Even now, once every five days, the watchmaker moves the pendulum manually, winding it up, and continues ticking the time.

Excellent central staircase with marble pillars and handrail sculptures

The luxurious interior is also a big highlight.When you go to the old Town hall, the first thing you’ll see is a marble pillar and a big staircase leading to the third floor.The landing has stained glass, and the wreath of laurel leaves is decorated as a design.Also, the glass windows that seem to wave the scenery are those of the time of construction.
In addition, there are a lot of beautiful designs which should be paid attention such as the delicate sculpture of the pillar which supports the handrail of the stairs and neat plaster coating.You will be amazed at the politeness of Japan work.

A luxurious interior with a great craftsmanship

The positive agency, located just off the central staircase, was used for instruction, appointment and important meetings in the room where it is currently in the Auditorium.It is a must-see interior that has been specially built.The ceiling which made a delicate plaster ornament was restored to one piece of the petal.The design of safflower and cherries, which is also a symbol of Yamagata, is hidden.
On the south side is a balcony, and yellow and red tiles on the floor are colorful.It is open on sunny days and overlooks the city skyline.

A classic old prefectural assembly building reminiscent of a ballroom

The former prefectural assembly building, which leads to the old Town Hall and corridor, is a room used as a chamber, but when there is no assembly, it is opened for lectures and concerts, and is still used as a venue for classical concerts.The ceiling of the arc is restored, and the spacious hotel is like a classical dance venue.Fountains and benches are located in front of the building, making it a place for citizens to relax.

Facility name: Yamagata Prefectural Museum “sho-kan”
Location 3-4-51 Sun-cho, yamagata-shi, Yamagata
Phone number 023-635-5500
Opening hours 9:00 ~ 16:30
Closed on 1.3 Monday (closed on the day of holidays), New Year holidays
Free of charge
Access 10 minutes from JR Yamagata Station to Beni-chan bus center, 8 minutes walk from City Hall South exit
URL http://www.gakushubunka.jp/bunsyokan/