Jinchōkan Moriya Historical Museum

The Jinchōkan Moriya Historical Museum holds a collection of historical documents and artifacts from the Moriya family, who served as priests at the Suwa Grand Shrine. The museum arranges these materials across several exhibition spaces that reveal different aspects of religious and daily life in the region.

The Moriya family held significant priestly positions at the Suwa Shrine across many generations, playing a central role in the region's religious history. The museum preserves rare medieval documents that show how this family shaped local society over centuries.

The exhibition spaces present traditional Shinto rituals through recreated offerings and ceremonial objects that were once used during festivals at the Suwa Shrine. Visitors can observe how these religious practices shaped daily life in this region.

The museum sits roughly 40 minutes on foot from Chino Station and is open daily for visitors. Planning your route in advance makes the walk there straightforward and manageable.

The building was designed by architect Terunobu Fujimori and blends modern reinforced concrete with traditional Japanese design elements and local stone. This unusual mix of contemporary and classical styles makes the museum building itself a notable part of the visit.

Location: Chino

Architects: Terunobu Fujimori

Official opening: 1991

Website: https://city.chino.lg.jp/soshiki/bunkazai/1639.html

GPS coordinates: 35.99553,138.12800

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:57