Former Moji Customs Building, Historic customs building in Mojikō Retro district, Japan
The former Moji Customs Building is a three-story red brick structure with Neo-Renaissance features including spired dormer windows and carved stone cornices. The structure was rebuilt after a fire and served as a major checkpoint for foreign trade control during Japan's rapid industrialization period.
The original building was destroyed by fire in 1912 and then rebuilt to regulate international trade during Japan's phase of rapid economic growth. The reconstruction marked a new chapter in the port's history as a strategic location for goods exchange.
The building shows a blend of Japanese and European design elements that emerged during the Meiji era. Visitors can see today how these two architectural traditions came together in the facade details and interior spaces.
The building is easily accessible for visitors to explore multiple levels, some displaying exhibits on modern customs operations. Upper areas offer viewing points over the harbor and surrounding area, clarifying the site's role in maritime history.
The inner brick walls contain embedded wooden blocks placed at regular intervals to prevent insect damage and stabilize the framework. This practical construction method from earlier times remains visible in the interior structure today.
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