Guide
The Kanagawa Prefectural Museum of Natural History is a museum dedicated to the theme of "The Culture and History of Kanagawa." The museum is housed in the former main building of the Yokohama Specie Bank, completed in 1904. This building is a designated Important Cultural Property, characterized by its striking Neo-Baroque Western-style architecture.
Please note that the museum is currently closed for renovation work, including building longevity improvements and LED lighting upgrades. The museum is scheduled to remain closed until October 16, 2026, and is expected to reopen on October 17, 2026.
The history of the main building dates back to the construction of the Yokohama Specie Bank in 1900. Completed in 1904, the architecture follows a classical style influenced by modern German Western-style architecture. It was designed by Yorimitsu Tsumaki, with construction supervised by Okyo Endo. Although the dome section was destroyed by fire during the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake, it was subsequently restored, and the facility opened as the Kanagawa Prefectural Museum in 1967.
In 1969, the building was designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan as the "Former Yokohama Specie Bank Main Building." Additionally, the entire site is designated as a national historic site, making it a vital landmark in the history of modern Japanese architecture.
The exhibitions primarily focus on the permanent collection, "The Culture and History of Kanagawa," supplemented by special exhibitions and displays held several times a year. A major highlight is the collection of over 6,000 ukiyo-e prints, originally collected by Tsuneo Tanba, who was engaged in trade in Yokohama. The museum also displays a diverse range of archaeological materials and artifacts that illustrate the local culture.
Exhibition content and special event schedules vary by season. You can check the schedule for seasonal special exhibitions via the official website's event calendar. The museum is open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:30 PM).
The museum offers a free digital exhibition guide (voice and text commentary) that can be accessed via a smartphone app. This system is designed to deepen your understanding of the exhibits. Visitors can experience the unique way the historical architectural design and the displayed artifacts harmonize in one space.
The museum is located in a historic area of Naka-ku, Yokohama. The nearby Bashamichi area features a charming blend of historic architecture and modern commercial facilities, making it an excellent area for walking tours. The museum is easily accessible via Kannai Station (Yokohama Municipal Subway) and Sakuragicho Station (JR Negishi Line).
To protect the historical documents and maintain a respectful environment, please follow all museum rules. If you wish to use the free audio guide, please bring your own smartphone.