Hideyo Noguchi Memorial Hall (Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture)
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
The Hideyo Noguchi Memorial Museum celebrates the life and achievements of bacteriologist Hideyo Noguchi (1876–1928). Born in Inawashiro Town, Fukushima Prefecture, Noguchi was a world-renowned medical scientist known for his research on infectious diseases such as yellow fever. The museum traces his character and scientific career through stories of his birthplace, childhood, research activities after moving to the United States, rare photographs, letters, replicas of research equipment, and actual items. The exhibits, featuring timelines, panels, models, and videos, are easy to understand and appeal to visitors of all ages. The museum also conveys the significance of Noguchi's research in his hometown of Aizu and its connection to local history.
Highlights
- Materials from his early life and youth: childhood photographs, diaries, and exhibits on his local activities.
- Research materials: replicas of the equipment used by Noguchi, research notes, letters, and photographs.
– Panels and models introducing yellow fever research and overseas activities. The hardships and results of research are explained in an easy-to-understand manner.
– Video section: Short films introducing the artist's life and explanatory videos (Japanese, some English explanations available).
- Special exhibitions: Special exhibitions with specific themes are sometimes held, and the content changes with the seasons.
– Museum shop: Selling catalogs, related books, souvenirs, etc.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
– Nearest station: JR Aizuwakamatsu Station is the nearest major station (located in Aizuwakamatsu city).
– Example of access from the station:
- By car: Approximately 10-20 minutes by car from JR Aizu-Wakamatsu Station (depending on road and traffic conditions).
- Local bus: Take a city bus or a tourist route bus from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station. Bus stops are often located just a few minutes' walk away. Be sure to check the timetable and route in advance.
- Taxi: Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from the station.
- If you are coming by car: There are often parking lots nearby, but the number of spaces is limited, so we recommend checking in advance.
– Please check the official website or city tourist information for the latest access information (bus times, parking, temporary closures, etc.).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
– General tour: 30 minutes to 1 hour. If you want to read the exhibits carefully or watch the videos, you should allow yourself 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.
– If you are participating in a special exhibition or event, more time will be required.
Nearby spots
- Tsuruga Castle (Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle): An iconic tourist spot in Aizu, easily accessible from the memorial hall.
– Aizu Samurai Residences: A historic facility where you can experience samurai culture.
– Ouchi-juku (a short distance away): A tourist attraction where the scenery of a post town with thatched roofs remains.
- Oyakuen: A medicinal herb garden from the Edo period that is perfect for a stroll.
– Local sake and sake brewery tours: We also recommend touring sake breweries in the Aizu region and enjoying local cuisine.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: During tourist seasons (Golden Week, summer vacation, autumn foliage season) and the Aizu Festival, the area may be crowded along with surrounding tourist attractions. Please allow yourself plenty of time on weekends and holidays.
- Manners: Please observe quietly inside the museum and refrain from touching the exhibits. Whether photography is permitted or not varies by exhibit, so please follow the posted instructions.
- Seasonal Notice:
– In winter, there may be snow and frozen roads, so please wear warm clothes and non-slip shoes. Travel times may be longer due to transportation delays and road conditions.
– In summer, take measures against the heat (drinks, hats, etc.).
– Opening hours, closing days, and admission fees: These may change at any time, so please check the official website or city tourist information for the latest information before visiting.
- Barrier-free access: The barrier-free status (wheelchair access, elevators, etc.) within the building varies depending on the facility. If you need access, please inquire in advance.
(Additional Information) Please be sure to check the official website or the Aizuwakamatsu City Tourism Information page for the latest opening hours, admission fees, information on special exhibitions, access details, and transportation schedules.
