History Zone

This section provides an overview of the history of the Bank of Japan and the Otaru Branch, and introduces the architecture of the original Otaru Branch building. Visitors can also take a look at a collection of original Bank of Japan notes issued after World War II.

Explanations of the items on display can be found in English pamphlets available at the museum.

The History of the Bank of Japan

Image: tower stand displays explaining the history of the Bank of Japan

This section explains the role that the Bank has played in Japan's financial and economic history since its establishment in 1882, with reference to historical documents and other materials.

Visitors can also learn how the Bank's Otaru Branch, its other local offices in Hokkaido, and the city of Otaru have been transformed over time.

Otaru -- "The Wall Street of Northern Japan"

Image: Otaru Museum within a miniature diorama of the city of Otaru at its zenith

This section explains the role of the Otaru Branch, and exhibits a miniature diorama of the city of Otaru at its zenith, showing the Otaru Branch at the heart of a busy financial district.

Visitors can also take a look at photographed floor plans of the Otaru Branch building from the time of its construction and the original plaque commemorating the start of construction.

The Architecture of Kingo Tatsuno including the Bank of Japan Buildings

Image: panels introducing the main architectural works of Kingo Tatsuno

This section introduces the main architectural works of Kingo Tatsuno -- the architect responsible for designing the original Otaru Branch building -- including the Bank's Head Office and several of its branches as well as landmarks including Tokyo Station.

Banknote Gallery

Image: exhibits from a collection of Bank of Japan notes issued after World War II

A collection of Bank of Japan notes issued after World War II (from 1945 onward) is exhibited in this gallery.