Guida
The Ex-Nippon Brick Manufacturing Co. Ltd. Brick Manufacturing Facility, located in Kamishimien, Fukaya City, Saitama Prefecture, is a significant industrial heritage site from the Meiji era. Established in 1887 by Eiichi Shibusawa and other prominent figures, this factory site is now a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan. The site preserves the remains of the massive No. 6 Hoffmann kiln, the former office (currently the Brick History Museum), the former substation, and the Bizen-kero Iron Bridge, which once served as a dedicated railway structure. These ruins represent the historical production of bricks used in Japan's most iconic modern buildings, such as the Marunouchi Station building at Tokyo Station and the old Bank of Japan building.
During the Meiji era, the Japanese government recognized the need for high-quality brick production to support urban development. They invited German architects Wilhelm Beckman and Hermann Ende to provide expertise. Based on their advice, Eiichi Shibusawa and his associates founded the Nippon Brick Manufacturing Co., Ltd., constructing Japan's first mechanized brick factory on this site. Under the guidance of German engineer Thiese, operations began in 1887. The bricks produced here became the foundation for many structures that symbolized Japan's modernization. In 1997, the site's historical value was officially recognized with its designation as an Important Cultural Property.
The most significant historical relic is the "No. 6 Hoffmann Kiln," which measures 56.5m in length and 20m in width. It is one of the largest remaining Hoffmann kilns in Japan. Another important structure is the "Bizen-kero Iron Bridge," which once facilitated the transport of bricks via a dedicated railway. Although access to the interior is currently restricted due to ongoing preservation and restoration work, visitors can still observe the massive scale and the unique texture of the red bricks from the outside.
As the site is currently undergoing restoration for future public use, the focus is more on observing the progress of the preservation work rather than seasonal changes. The Hoffmann kiln is scheduled to open to the public by the end of fiscal year 2027. Future plans include the introduction of projection mapping, multilingual-supported guidance, and areas within the kiln for dining. On clear days, the contrast between the red brick textures and the blue sky offers a beautiful and striking historical landscape.
Currently, the main parts of the facility are closed to the public for preservation and restoration. However, walking around the surrounding historical environment is possible. Future plans for the site include digital exhibitions using projection mapping, workshops, and dining experiences within the kiln area. Additionally, visitors can participate in the "Gurutto Fukaya Stamp Rally" by collecting stamps at the Oogiri Kominkan (Seido/Seifu-tei), which allows for a deeper connection with local culture.
The area surrounding the facility carries a profound historical atmosphere, deeply connected to the legacy of Eiichi Shibusawa. Fukaya City hosts many facilities related to his history; visiting these in combination will provide a deeper understanding of Japan's modernization process. Ongoing research projects in the area also make this a significant field for studying local history and culture.
Please note the following due to the ongoing restoration work: