TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The former Kaichi School is a Western-style school building in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture, representative of the Meiji era. Built in 1876 (Meiji 9), the two-story wooden school building incorporates a pseudo-Western (Japanese-Western eclectic) architectural style and is currently open to the public as a museum displaying the original classrooms, furniture, and educational materials. The building's unique design, which harmonizes the decorative turret and gable exterior with Western-style window frames and a Japanese-style tiled roof, is attractive, and it has been designated an Important Cultural Property, conveying the history of Meiji modernization and local education.
Highlights
- The exterior's pseudo-Western design: the decorative turrets (designed like octagonal towers and bell towers) and the decorations on the front facade make for great photos.
- A reproduction of a classroom from the past: With long wooden tables, blackboards, student desks, and more, you can experience the atmosphere of a Meiji-era school.
- Contrast of architectural techniques and design: The fusion of Western-style exterior elements with traditional Japanese wooden construction methods is of academic interest.
- Special exhibits and materials: Materials, photographs, teaching materials, etc. related to the history of education are on display, allowing visitors to learn about the state of education at the time.
- Compatibility with strolling around the surrounding area: By combining it with the nearby Nakamachi Street, Nawate Street, and Matsumoto Castle, you can enjoy a fulfilling stroll around the town.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Matsumoto Station (about 15-20 minutes on foot from Matsumoto Station), or about 5 minutes by taxi from the station.
- Bus: Take the Matsumoto City Loop Bus or Alpico Kotsu bus to the city center and then walk. Please check the route and schedule in advance.
- By car: As it is in the city, there are paid parking lots in the surrounding area. Parking at the former Kaichi School itself is limited, so we recommend using a parking lot in the city center and sightseeing on foot.
- Walking distance: 5-10 minutes on foot from Matsumoto Castle, and close to Nawate-dori and Nakamachi-dori, making it an easy location to incorporate into your walking route around town.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Observation only: 30-45 minutes (estimated time to see all the classrooms and exhibits in the building)
- If you want to take your time to look at the exhibits and take a stroll around the area: 1-2 hours
Nearby spots
- Matsumoto Castle (approximately 5-10 minutes walk) — This national treasure castle offers tours of the castle and views from the tower.
- Nawate Street (approximately 2-3 minutes walk) — A tourist street known as "Frog Path," this street is lined with restaurants and souvenir shops.
- Nakamachi Street (approximately 5 minutes walk) — A traditional street lined with storehouses, perfect for shopping and cafe hopping.
- Matsumoto City Museum of Art (approximately 10-15 minutes walk) — Exhibiting contemporary art and local artists, with permanent and special exhibitions.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The temple can get crowded with tourists during Golden Week, the summer travel season, autumn foliage season, and weekends. If you want to take your time exploring, it's best to visit on a weekday morning.
- Photography: Photography is generally permitted inside the museum, but flash photography and the use of tripods may be restricted to protect the exhibits. Please follow the instructions of the staff and signs.
- Preservation Measures: As this is an old wooden building, there are steps and narrow staircases inside the building. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and avoid touching the stairs and exhibits.
- Barrier-free access: Due to the structure of the building, some areas are not fully barrier-free. If you are visiting with a wheelchair or stroller, it is best to inquire with the facility in advance.
- Seasonal clothing: In winter, even in Matsumoto city, it can get very cold, so wear warm clothing. In summer, take measures against the heat during the day. Indoors, where the items are stored, the heating may be low.
- Check the latest information: Opening hours, closing days, admission fees, etc. are subject to change. Please check the official website or tourist information for the latest information before visiting.
(Reference) For more detailed information on opening hours and exhibits, please see the official Matsumoto City Tourism Site or the official guide of the Former Kaichi School.
