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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The former Nakagomi School is a historic school building remaining in the Nakagomi district of Saku City, Nagano Prefecture. Built in the Meiji period, the Western-style school building has been well preserved, with an exterior that combines wood construction with Western design, and an interior that conveys the atmosphere of classrooms at the time. It is highly valued as a cultural asset that conveys the history of education and the progress of modernization in the region, and the restored and preserved school building is also popular as a photogenic spot.
Highlights
- Exterior design: Features of Meiji-era Japanese-Western fusion architecture, such as the gable roof, veranda, and exterior wall decorations, are evident. The exterior blends well with the scenery of the four seasons, and is particularly beautiful with the autumn leaves and snowy winter scenery.
- Interior classroom space: Many classrooms have been restored with old blackboards, desks, chairs, etc., allowing you to get a real feel for school life at the time. You can learn about architectural history and the history of education in the area through exhibition panels and documents.
- Materials and exhibits: You can often see materials related to local history, such as historical documents and photographs, old textbooks, and exhibits showing sports days (the content of the exhibits changes depending on the season and special exhibitions).
- Tours and photography: The building's detailed architecture and wood texture make it perfect for photography. We recommend taking your time to explore the building and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Nakagomi Station (JR Koumi Line). It is convenient to use the train as it is within walking distance from the station.
- If you are using the Shinkansen: From Sakudaira Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen), you can access the area by taking a local bus or taxi, or by connecting to a conventional line heading towards Nakagomi.
- By car: Accessible from prefectural and national roads. There may be municipal parking lots and paid parking lots in the vicinity, but please note that the number of spaces is limited, so please use a nearby parking lot when it is crowded.
- Local buses and taxis: You can get to the Nakagomi area by local bus or taxi within Saku City. The number of buses varies depending on the area, so it's best to check the schedule in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Quick tour: 30 to 45 minutes (to see the exterior and main exhibits)
- Leisurely tour: 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes (including internal exhibits, photography, and walking around the area)
- If you want to take your time to look at related exhibits and special exhibitions, you may want to allow more time.
Nearby spots
- Stroll through Nakagomi town: Enjoy the local atmosphere while walking through the old shopping district and townscape.
- Sakudaira area: There are restaurants, shopping facilities, hot spring facilities, etc., making it a convenient place for lunch or a break.
- Tourist attractions around Komoro and Saku: You can visit multiple tourist spots by car, including Kaikoen Garden, the natural spots of Saku Plain, and tourist spots around Mount Asama.
- Seasonal highlights: We recommend strolling around the area depending on the season, such as cherry blossoms in spring, autumn leaves in autumn, and snowy scenery in winter.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Check opening times: Exhibit changes, closing days, and opening hours vary by facility. Please check official information or the city's tourism website for the latest opening times before visiting.
- Photography rules: There may be restrictions on photography inside buildings and exhibits. Please follow the instructions of the museum staff and signs.
- Crowds: It can get crowded on weekends, holidays, and during peak tourist seasons (cherry blossom and autumn foliage season, Golden Week, etc.). If you want to enjoy a quieter experience, we recommend visiting on weekday mornings.
- Clothing and footwear: The building has wooden floors and some uneven surfaces. Please wear non-slip shoes. In winter, please be careful of snow and ice.
- Considerations for preservation: In order to protect the valuable architecture and materials, please observe etiquette such as not touching the exhibits and not bringing food or drinks into the museum.
*Please check the official guides from Saku City and the former Nakagomi School in advance for detailed information on the facility's opening hours, admission fees, closing days, and event information.
