Shōwakan

The Shōwakan is a museum in Hanawada holding over 63,000 items including letters, clothing, and everyday objects that document how Japanese people lived during World War II. The collection offers a wide view of this historical period through original artifacts and things people actually used.

The building was constructed in 1938 and later converted into a museum, opening formally in 2008. This transformed structure brings together its original construction with modern museum functions to make history accessible.

The museum recreates 1950s streetscapes where you can see a barbershop, photography studio, and shop operating as they once did. These reconstructions show how local businesses fit into daily life during that era.

The museum is open daily and visitors should plan time to explore the various exhibition areas and reconstructions at your own pace. Access is straightforward throughout the space, allowing you to spend as long as you wish in different sections.

The entrance features a working traditional candy shop selling sweets from the Shōwa period that visitors can purchase. This operating shop shows what treats people actually enjoyed and gives a real sense of everyday pleasures from that time.

Location: Hanawada

Inception: October 3, 1938

Architects: Kōichi Satō

Official opening: January 4, 2008

Website: https://pref.tochigi.lg.jp/b06/system/gaido/annai/syouwakantop.html

GPS coordinates: 36.56483,139.88411

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:07