Guide
The Yatsushiro City Museum Mirai no Mori Museum, located in Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture, is a unique facility where profound history meets cutting-edge architectural design. The building itself was designed by the world-famous architect Toyo Ito, making the structure a work of art in its own right. The permanent exhibitions offer a multi-faceted look into the rich history and culture of the Yatsushiro region. A standout feature is the entrance hall, which houses detailed scale models of the 'Yatsushiro Myoken Festival'—a ritual recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage—capturing the attention of every visitor.
The museum's collection delves deep into the roots of Yatsushiro. It features extensive-related materials concerning the Matsui clan, who once ruled this land, as well as artifacts related to the history of Yatsushiro Castle. Beyond political history, the museum highlights the region's identity through its traditional industries. Visitors can learn about Yatsushiro-yaki (also known as Takata-yaki) pottery, the exquisite craftsmanship of Higo-tetsu (ironwork), Miyaji Washi (traditional paper), and Somikawa (textiles/dyeing). These exhibits serve as vital records of the cultural heritage and the passage of time in Yatsushiro.
The exhibition rooms house a diverse range of historical materials. The first permanent exhibition area displays artifacts spanning from the Kofun period to the modern era, including a scale model of Yatsushiro Castle and various tools used throughout different eras. The scale model of the Yatsushiro Myoken Festival, recreating the atmosphere of the Edo period, is an essential exhibit for visually understanding local traditions. Additionally, the heirloom items from the Matsui family and the highly detailed traditional crafts demonstrate the sophisticated techniques and aesthetic sensibilities of the region.
The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We recommend visiting during daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate details of the exhibits and the masterful interplay of light and shadow created by Toyo Ito's architectural design. Occasionally, the museum may host special events or free admission periods during certain holidays, such as Children's Day (May 5th) or Culture Day (November 3rd). Visiting on a clear, sunny day is highly recommended to best enjoy the architectural elegance.
Through the exhibits, visitors can gain a deep understanding of local traditional crafts and the mechanics of regional festivals. For example, the displays regarding paper-making tools, rice cultivation, and textile techniques provide a window into the traditional Japanese way of life. Furthermore, as the building is a part of the 'Kumamoto Artpolis' project, simply observing the architectural design itself is a unique cultural experience.
The museum is situated near areas that still retain much of their historical landscape. It offers easy access to historical sites like the Yatsushiro Castle ruins, allowing visitors to connect the historical context learned at the museum with the actual topography and ruins of the area. Exploring the surroundings provides a holistic sense of Yatsushiro's historical atmosphere.
To ensure a pleasant environment for all, please follow museum etiquette. While there are no specific dress code restrictions, please be aware that most paths within the exhibition areas are flat and easy to navigate. Admission fees are 310 JPY for adults and 200 JPY for university students (per person). Please check on-site regarding the availability of credit card payments. We also recommend checking for English-language signage or materials in advance to enhance your understanding of the exhibits. Please refrain from touching any displays.