Kiryū Meijikan, Important Cultural Property in Aioi-chō, Japan
Kiryū Meijikan is a protected historic building in Aioi-chō that combines Western and Japanese construction traditions. Giyōfū architecture shows in the windows, roofs, and interior spaces designed with Western influence while keeping Japanese wooden structures intact.
The building was constructed in 1878 as the health office for Gunma Prefecture and marks the start of rapid modernization in the early Meiji era. Its creation falls during a time when Japan adopted Western administrative structures while keeping its own traditions.
The building shows how Japanese architecture changed during the Meiji period as Western building styles entered everyday life. You can see this blend directly in the details that visitors notice when entering.
The building is easily accessible and allows visitors to walk through different rooms across the property. You should take time to explore all areas, keeping in mind that some rooms have small stairs.
The building was originally built as an office and later converted to a museum while keeping its original purpose visible in the architecture. This dual identity makes each room interesting to explore, as you see how people once worked here.
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