Yamagata Prefectural Museum "Bunsokan"
The Yamagata Prefectural Museum, known as Buntokan, is a building constructed in the style of British Neo-Renaissance in 1916. Until 1975, it served as the center of Yamagata Prefecture. The building features thick stone-clad exterior walls and is home to one of Japan's second oldest clock towers. This clock is manually wound by a clockmaker every five days and continues to mark the time today. Inside, there are many lavish decorations that evoke a sense of Western architecture, particularly intricate plaster embellishments and stained glass found in the entrance hall and main chamber. Decorations inspired by Yamagata's local products, such as safflower and cherries, can also be enjoyed. Additionally, free volunteer guides are available to provide tours, allowing visitors to learn about the detailed history and background of the building. In 1984, it was designated as an Important Cultural Property of the country, and restoration work took ten years to complete. Today, it is open to the public, conveying its history and beauty to many visitors.
Basic Information
- Spot Name
- Yamagata Prefectural Museum "Bunsokan"
- Location
- 〒990-0047 3-4-51 Hatagocho, Yamagata City, Yamagata Prefecture
- Access
- From JR Yamagata Station, take a city bus via City Hall and get off at City Hall Front, then a 1-minute walk. Approximately a 10-minute drive from Yamagata-Zao IC on the Yamagata Expressway.
- Parking
- 40 cars
- Business Hours
- 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Regular Holiday
- First and third Mondays (the following day if it is a holiday), December 29 to January 3.
- Fees
- Free
- Contact Information
- Phone Number：023-635-5500
- Official Website
