Guide
The Bank of Japan Otaru Branch Museum is a public relations facility located in Otaru, Hokkaido, dedicated to sharing the history of the Bank of Japan and the economic development of the region. Completed in 1912 (the first year of the Taisho era), this building is a significant landmark representing the financial history of Otaru during its era as the 'Wall Street of the North.' Now designated as a cultural property of Otaru City, the museum offers a unique blend of historical architectural beauty and educational financial exhibits.
The building was designed by the renowned architect Kingo Tatsuno—famous for designing Tokyo Station—along with Uhei Nagano. At the time, Otaru was a thriving commercial hub, and the Bank of Japan played a central role in its prosperity. The structure is a two-story building featuring a Renaissance style, with walls made of brick covered in mortar. The design incorporates advanced technology of the era, including a steel-framed roof and a beautiful British-made spiral staircase in the eastern tower. After the Otaru branch ceased operations in 2002, the building was renovated and reopened in 2003 as the current financial museum.
The museum consists of three primary exhibition zones. First, the 'History Exhibition Zone' features the history of the Bank of Japan, actual banknotes from the post-WWII era, and miniature models of the Otaru cityscape from that period. Second, the 'Business Exhibition Zone' displays the banknote production process, financial systems, and actual safes used in the past. A particularly popular feature is the 'Try lifting 100 million yen' corner, which allows visitors to physically experience the weight of 100 million yen. Third, the 'Multimedia Corner' offers educational videos via large screens and opportunities to test your financial knowledge through digital interfaces.
The museum is open year-round, though opening hours vary by season. From April to November, it opens at 9:30 AM, and from December to March, it opens at 10:00 AM. Visiting during the bright daylight hours allows you to appreciate the intricate architectural details and the way light interacts with the historical exhibits. For a more serene experience, visiting in the quiet morning hours is recommended to observe the beautiful curves of the lobby and counters without crowds.
Beyond visual displays, the museum offers interactive experiences. The 'Business Exhibition Zone' provides a chance to physically feel the 'weight' of money through the safe-related exhibits. In the Multimedia Corner, you can engage in digital learning and take part in quizzes about the Bank of Japan. Additionally, visitors with smartphones or tablets can use the available digital resources to enhance their understanding of the exhibits.
The area surrounding the museum is dotted with historical buildings that reflect the era when Otaru was the 'Wall Street of the North.' Nearby landmarks include the former Hokkaido Bank Head Office (Otaru Vine) and the former Mitsubishi Bank Otaru Branch (Otaru Canal Terminal). Exploring these sites allows you to trace the economic prosperity of the region. The Otaru Canal is also within walking distance, making it easy to combine a visit to the museum with a stroll through the historic canal district.
As this is a preserved historical building, please refrain from touching the exhibits. If you wish to use the digital guides, please bring your own smartphone/tablet and a pair of earphones. While admission is free, it is helpful to have a transit IC card or cash for nearby transportation and sightseeing. While there are English signs and some English-language exhibits, using a translation tool can help deepen your understanding. For groups of 20 or more, advanced reservation via telephone is required.