Touch the Past: An Immersive Journey Through Japanese Education at the Yamagata Museum
As you stroll through a quiet residential area, the cheerful voices of students gradually grow louder. Nestled besides, or rather within, the grounds of a high school, a striking historical building with a vibrant red roof welcomes you.
This architectural gem, now the Yamagata Prefectural Education Museum, was once a “normal school” dedicated to training elementary school teachers. It was designated a nationally important cultural property in 1973.
・The Establishment of “Normal Schools” in Japan
Following the start of the Meiji period, Japan underwent rapid modernization. Centralization of power became a key process as the nation transitioned away from the feudal system. This shift in governance led to a new, centralized education system, designed to extend a common base of knowledge throughout Japan and enhance literacy levels. The “normal school” played a crucial role in this vision. Its primary purpose was to cultivate primary school teachers. The first normal school was established in Tokyo in 1872, with other regions following suit in later years. Yamagata’s normal school was established in 1878. Following the establishment of national schools nationwide, the Meiji government, drawing inspiration from teacher training systems in other countries, enacted the “Normal School Order.” Students in these schools received scholarships in exchange for committing to work as teachers for a specified period after graduation.
・Architecture that Echoes History
The first “normal school” in Yamagata was built in 1878 by order of the first governor of Yamagata Prefecture. As the school’s needs grew, it was relocated approximately 1.5km away in 1901 and has remained in the same location ever since. At the time of relocation, the introduction of European-style architecture captivated the residents.
This wooden structure beautifully incorporates Renaissance design elements. The roof is covered with vibrant red tiles, while the roof of the clock tower, which stands at the center of the symmetrical building and was carefully dismantled and reconstructed from the original 1878 building, is painted a contrasting green. The walls are coated with mortar, and a tile foundation provides protection against fire.
As you step inside, you’ll notice the unique diagonal placement of the wooden floorboards and ceiling panels, a feature uncommon in other buildings. This design is believed to contribute to the building’s structural integrity.
・Explore the Exhibits
While the beauty of the interior is captivating, the exhibits themselves are equally fascinating. They provide a comprehensive overview of the development of education in Japan, from the Edo period (approximately 400 years ago) to the 21st century. A highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to touch textbooks used in schools from bygone eras. Visitors can also examine original textbooks alongside copies where portions were blacked out by the Allied occupation authorities following World War II, because they were deemed to promote militaristic ideals. Beyond these, there are numerous other exhibits, including antique harmoniums once used in classrooms.
Ready to step back in time? Since it’s only a 25-minute walk from Yamagata Station, why not take a stroll and immerse yourself in the history of education at this beautiful museum?
・Basic Information about the Yamagata Education Museum:
Location: 25-minute walk from Yamagata Station (Alternatively, take a bus and disembark at the “Kitakou-mae” bus stop.)
Entrance Fee: ¥150 for adults, ¥70 for students
Opening Hours: 9:00 – 16:30 (Closed December 28th – January 4th, Mondays, and Public Holidays)
Time to look around: Approximately 1 hour.
(Information current at the time of writing)
For more information:
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1023191-d6652304-Reviews-Yamagata_Prefectural_Museum-Yamagata_Yamagata_Prefecture_Tohoku.html
