FAQs

Q1
How long does it take to look around the Otaru Museum?
A
It takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
Q2
Are pets (cats, dogs, etc.) allowed in the museum?
A
Pets are not permitted. We welcome assistance dogs (guide, service, or hearing dogs).
Q3
Is the museum accessible to wheelchair users?
A
The museum is accessible to wheelchair users. For details, see the Accessibility section under Planning Your Visit.
Q4
Is there a museum store?
A
There is a gift shop within the museum where visitors can buy souvenirs.
Q5
Are there any storage lockers?
A
Coin lockers are located next to the Lobby Area inside the museum. Those wishing to make use of the lockers will require a 100-yen coin, returned after use.
Q6
Are members of the museum staff available to explain about the exhibits?
A
Museum visits are self-guided. However, guided tours (Visitor Information) are offered in Japanese from 2:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Q7
Is eating allowed in the museum?
A
Eating is not permitted in the museum. Drinking is permitted only in the designated area.
Q8
Is photography allowed in the museum?
A
Visitors are welcome to take pictures except in the Special Exhibition Hall. Please refrain from flash photography or the use of tripods.
There are recommended photo points throughout the museum, at locations indicated in the list of photo points (249KB, PDF file opens in new window) (available only in Japanese).
In the Vault, there is a face cutout of a 10,000 yen note, where visitors can take a picture that includes the date of their visit.
Image: a face cutout of a 10,000 yen note
Q9
Is there a parking lot?
A
Parking is not available at the museum (exceptions are made in special cases). For access details, see Getting Here (Parking).
Q10
What is on display in the museum?
A
The museum displays items related to the Bank of Japan's history, its business operations, and the development of the city of Otaru. For details, see About the Exhibits.
Q11
Is Wi-Fi available in the museum?
A
Wi-Fi is not available in the museum.
Q12
Are there facilities available for nursing in the museum?
A
There is no designated nursing room in the museum.
Q13
Is information on the exhibits available in languages other than Japanese?
A
Brief explanations in English are provided for some of the exhibits. There are also pamphlets introducing the items on display and information leaflets, both of which are available in English and Chinese.