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Fukuoka Red Brick Culture Museum: A Glimpse into Meiji Era Elegance

Step back in time at Fukuoka's Red Brick Culture Museum: a Meiji-era architectural gem blending history and modern culture in Tenjin.

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The Fukuoka Red Brick Culture Museum, a striking red brick building in Tenjin, Fukuoka, offers a step back in time. Built in 1909 as the Kyushu branch of Nippon Life Insurance, its British architectural style and meticulously restored interiors provide a unique cultural experience. Today, it hosts exhibitions, events, and even a coworking space, blending history with modern functionality.

A brief summary to Fukuoka Red Brick Culture Museum

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience of the museum.
  • Check the museum's schedule for temporary exhibitions to gain unique insights into specific aspects of Fukuoka's culture.
  • Don't miss the chance to relax at the café on the first floor.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Fukuoka Red Brick Culture Museum is centrally located in Tenjin, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby points of interest. From Tenjin Station, it's approximately a 5-10 minute walk. Head east along Showa-dori Avenue, and you'll spot the distinctive red brick building on your right. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by subway, take the subway to Tenjin Station. From there, it's a short walk to the museum. Alternatively, several Nishitetsu buses stop near Tenjin Station. A single subway fare from Hakata Station to Tenjin costs ¥210-¥230. Bus fares vary depending on the distance, but a short trip within Tenjin will typically cost around ¥170.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Fukuoka. A short taxi ride from Hakata Station to the Fukuoka Red Brick Culture Museum will cost approximately ¥1200-¥1500 and take around 10 minutes, depending on traffic. From Tenjin Station, a taxi would be even less.

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Discover more about Fukuoka Red Brick Culture Museum

The Fukuoka Red Brick Culture Museum, also known as Akarenga Cultural Center, stands as a captivating example of Meiji-era architecture in the heart of Fukuoka's Tenjin district. Completed in 1909, the building was originally designed by Kingo Tatsuno and Yasushi Kataoka to house the Kyushu branch of Nippon Life Insurance Company. Tatsuno, renowned for also designing Tokyo Station, employed a distinctive British architectural style, characterized by contrasting red brick and granite exteriors, topped with copper-shingled domes and spires. Designated as a National Important Cultural Property in 1969, the building's ownership was transferred to Fukuoka City. After serving as the Fukuoka City Museum of Historical Materials, it was renovated and reopened in 1994 as the Red Brick Culture Center, aiming to preserve and showcase it as a historical asset. The meticulous restoration work brought back the original splendor of the red bricks, windows, and Art Nouveau-style marble fireplace. Today, the museum offers a blend of historical appreciation and modern use. The first floor features exhibition spaces and a café, while the second floor houses meeting rooms. The basement even includes a Makers room with a 3D printer for registered members. The Fukuoka City Literature Hall is also located on the first floor, hosting literature-themed events and displaying works by local authors. Visitors can explore the restored colonial-style building, admiring its architectural details and experiencing the unique atmosphere.

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