Guida
The Morioka Senjin Kinenkan (Morioka Pioneers Memorial Museum) is a museum established to honor the legacies of 130 distinguished individuals who played significant roles in the Morioka region from the Meiji era onwards. This facility serves as a vital bridge, passing down the historical background of Morioka—a city that has produced many exceptional talents—to future generations. The exhibits are not merely historical records; they are precious windows into how the local community contributed to society and built its unique cultural identity.
Opened on October 2, 1987, the museum is a substantial structure with a total floor area of 3,590 square meters, consisting of one basement level and two floors above ground. The building stands as a center for preserving the spirit of the pioneers who supported the development of Morioka. Through its displays, visitors can understand the cultural context of how this region nurtured diverse talents and contributed to the social and economic progress of Japan.
The core of the exhibition focuses on the lives and works of 130 pioneers from the Meiji era and later. A major highlight is the collection related to Inazo Nitobe, a world-renowned figure. Visitors can see his personal belongings, including documents illustrating his international connections, his calligraphy, and even a 'Sugoroku' (board game) he created himself. Additionally, the museum hosts special exhibitions such as the 'Koichiro Tomita Relics Exhibition' or displays of 'Morioka Merchant Family Dolls,' allowing for a deeper dive into specific eras of lifestyle and cultural achievements.
The museum is open year-round and is an excellent destination for historical and cultural exploration regardless of the season. We recommend visiting during the relatively quiet morning hours to allow ample time to study and appreciate the detailed exhibits. Since special exhibitions are held periodically, it is highly recommended to check the official website before your visit to see the latest themes and specific historical topics currently on display.
Inside the museum, you can connect with history through the personal items and writings left behind by historical figures. Seeing items like the Sugoroku board game created by Inazo Nitobe provides a charming, humanizing glimpse into the culture and sense of humor of the past, making these historical figures feel more relatable. The museum also offers opportunities to understand regional culture from multiple perspectives through its regular special exhibitions and workshops.
Morioka's city center is home to several other cultural institutions, such as the Takashi Hara Memorial Museum, the Ishikawa Takuboku Memorial Museum, Morioka Tegami-kan, the Children's Science Museum, the Morioka City Archaeology Museum, and the Morioka History and Culture Museum. You can visit these sites efficiently using a 'Common Admission Ticket,' which allows you to follow a structured route to learn about the history and culture of Morioka systematically.
As this is a quiet space dedicated to learning and reflection, a calm atmosphere is maintained. There are no strict dress codes, but comfortable clothing is suggested for walking through the exhibits. For payments, such as purchasing a common admission ticket, cash is required. Regarding language support, please check on-site for the availability of English signage or staff assistance. As the exhibits consist of precious historical artifacts, please follow all instructions regarding photography and handling of items.