Guide
The Uwa Kome Museum preserves the culture of 'Uwa, the Land of Rice' in Seiyo City, Ehime Prefecture. The building itself is a major attraction, as it is a relocated wooden structure from the former Uwa Town Elementary School, originally built in 1928. The space perfectly preserves the atmosphere of a bygone era, featuring displays of traditional agricultural tools and exhibits related to Japan's rice culture. One of the most popular activities is the 'Zokin-gake' experience, where visitors can practice traditional floor scrubbing on the school's remarkably long wooden corridor.
The museum is set within the former Uwa Town Elementary School building, where generations of local children once studied. Through this historic architecture, visitors can learn how agriculture—specifically rice cultivation—has been deeply rooted in this region alongside Japan's modernization. The wooden schoolhouse, which retains much of its early Showa-era architectural style, serves as a vital piece of local heritage. The displayed farming implements and daily life tools offer a window into the lifestyle of the past.
The museum features several distinct areas. The most notable is the long wooden corridor, one of the longest of its kind in Japan. Here, you can experience 'Zokin-gake,' the traditional Japanese method of cleaning floors with a cloth. Another highlight is the classroom exhibit, where a large blackboard covers the wall, allowing visitors to freely write with chalk to recreate the feeling of a vintage classroom. Additionally, the collection of agricultural tools provides a deep look into the history of Uwa as a prosperous rice-producing region.
The museum is open year-round. Depending on the season, you can enjoy the exhibits while imagining the cycles of rice harvesting and farm work. Visiting during bright daylight hours allows you to feel the warmth of the wooden schoolhouse more deeply. If you plan to participate in the active floor-scrubbing experience, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement.
The hallmark of the Uwa Kome Museum is its hands-on programs. The most famous is the 'Zokin-gake' experience, where you hold a cloth and move across the floor in a traditional scrubbing motion. There are also specialized plans like the 'Badge Course,' where the color of your badge changes based on your progress. For those who want to try it seriously, gym clothes (school physical education uniforms) are available for rent. These activities provide a wonderful way to physically experience Japanese school culture and daily life.
The area surrounding the museum is dotted with spots where you can feel the local history and culture. Nearby locations include the Uwa Senkaku Memorial Museum and the Uwa Mingu-kan (Folk Tool Museum), which offer deeper insights into regional history. A stroll through the historic streets of Unomachi or a visit to local soy sauce manufacturers will also provide a rich cultural experience of Ehime.
As the museum is an older wooden structure, please watch your step. If you intend to try the 'Zokin-gake' experience, we highly recommend wearing comfortable clothing, such as trousers or pants. To protect the historic building and exhibits, please follow all museum etiquette.