Shikoku Mura Village
Shikoku Region
Shikoku Mura Village is a unique open-air museum located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. Established in 1976, it features a vast collection of historic buildings primarily from the Edo to Meiji periods, relocated from across Shikoku and Hyogo Prefecture. The museum exhibits traditional houses, industrial facilities, lighthouses, and communal structures, many of which are designated as important cultural properties. Visitors can explore authentic architecture such as the Kono Family House and the Wasa-Down Residence, along with traditional industry buildings like sugar and soy sauce warehouses. The site also includes the Shikoku Mura Gallery, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, which opened in 2002 and offers modern art exhibitions alongside a scenic garden. The village's setting near Mount Yashima provides a picturesque backdrop, with features like the Kazura Bridge inspired by a famous suspension bridge in Tokushima. Shikoku Mura offers a rare glimpse into Japan's architectural heritage and traditional rural life, making it a culturally rich destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.
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Tip: The best time to visit Shikoku Mura is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the gardens are in bloom. Visitors should note that the museum has many slopes and stairs, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Advance ticket purchase is advised during peak seasons or special exhibition periods. While the site is not fully barrier-free, there are accessible paths available. Consider using public transport via Kotoden Yashima Station or JR Yashima Station, followed by a shuttle bus to the village for convenient access. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, and students.
Interesting facts
- •Shikoku Mura houses two buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties and six buildings recognized as Important Tangible Folk Cultural Properties.
- •The Shikoku Mura Gallery was designed by the famous architect Tadao Ando and opened in 2002.
- •The village includes relocated lighthouses designed by Richard Henry Brunton, a notable figure in Japan's Meiji-era modernization.
- •The Kazura Bridge in the village is modeled after a famous suspension bridge in Tokushima Prefecture.
- •Many buildings in Shikoku Mura were relocated from various parts of Shikoku and Hyogo Prefecture to preserve regional architectural styles.
History
Shikoku Mura Village was founded in 1976 to preserve and showcase traditional architecture from the Shikoku region and Hyogo Prefecture.
Over the decades, it has relocated and restored numerous historic buildings, many designated as important cultural properties.
In 2002, the Shikoku Mura Gallery, designed by Tadao Ando, was added to the site, enhancing its cultural offerings.
The museum reflects Japan's efforts to protect rural heritage amid modernization, providing insight into Edo and Meiji period lifestyles and craftsmanship.
Place Guide
Old Kono Family HouseEdo period
An Important Cultural Property, this traditional residence showcases Edo period architectural style with wooden construction and thatched roofing, relocated from Kagawa Prefecture.
Old Wasa-Down Residence1905
A registered tangible cultural property originally built in 1905 in Kobe, this two-story wooden house features a tiled roof and stone gateposts, representing Western-influenced architecture of the Meiji period.
Shikoku Mura Gallery2002
A modern art museum and garden designed by architect Tadao Ando, opened in 2002 within the village grounds, blending contemporary design with natural surroundings.
Kazura Bridge
A suspension bridge inspired by the original Kazura Bridge in Tokushima Prefecture, offering a scenic crossing within the village and demonstrating traditional bridge construction techniques.
Lighthouses (Esaki, Nabeshima, Kudako)1871-1903
Historic lighthouse keeper's residences relocated from various parts of Japan, designed by Richard Henry Brunton during the Meiji era, showcasing early Western-style maritime architecture.
Contact
Phone: 087-843-3111