Kurokabe Square: A Glass Art Wonderland in Nagahama

Kurokabe Square, located in Nagahama, Shiga Prefecture, is a captivating blend of history and art. The area's name, meaning 'black wall,' comes from the black plaster used on the buildings, particularly the former Nagahama branch of the 130th National Bank, now the Kurokabe Glass Shop. This Western-style building, dating back to 1900, serves as the centerpiece of the square. Originally a castle town under Hideyoshi Hashiba (later Toyotomi), Nagahama flourished as a commercial center. The buildings in Kurokabe Square, constructed from the Edo to Meiji periods, have been repurposed into museums, galleries, workshops, restaurants, and cafes. This transformation began in the late 20th century when local volunteers and the Kurokabe Corporation revitalized the area, preserving its traditional architecture. Today, Kurokabe Square is renowned as one of the largest glass art exhibition areas in Western Japan. Visitors can explore various glass art forms, from traditional European glassware to contemporary designs. The square also offers hands-on workshops where you can create your own glass art, including glass blowing, stained glass, and sandblasting. In addition to glass art, Kurokabe Square features local cuisine and Shiga specialties.