Stepping into the Spirit of Meiji Japan: A Journey Through Kaimei School and the Uwa Folk and Historical Museum

In the charming town of Unomachi in Seiyo City, two culturally rich institutions invite travelers to explore Japan’s journey through modernization and tradition.

Established in the late 19th century, Kaimei School is a beautifully preserved example of early Meiji-era architecture and educational innovation. Just across the street, the Uwa Folk and Historical Museum offers a carefully curated collection of tools related to everyday life, local festivals, and commerce, shedding light on pre-modern Japanese culture.

These are not static museums, but immersive cultural experiences — a rare opportunity to understand how a nation was shaped not only by policy, but by its people.

Kaimei School: A Classroom Frozen in Time

Built in 1882 through donations from local citizens, Kaimei School is the oldest existing Western-style wooden school building in western Japan. Its elegant arched windows made with imported glass and refined Meiji-era design reflect the aspirations of a town that embraced the power of education.

Today, it functions as an educational museum, displaying a wide array of historical teaching materials. One of the highlights is the “Meiji Classroom Experience,” where visitors can take part in mock lessons in Japanese language , arithmetic, and music — using authentic period materials such as wall charts and wooden desks.

Uwa Folk and Historical Museum: Everyday Wisdom Preserved

Directly across from Kaimei School, the Uwa Folk and Historical Museum houses over 6,000 artifacts representing daily life in pre-modern Japan. The exhibits are organized by theme, showcasing tools related to domestic life, commerce, and seasonal festivals.

Each tool and handcrafted item tells a story of craftsmanship, community, and harmony with nature — offering visitors a grounded, tactile understanding of Japan’s traditional way of life.

Bonus Tip: Two Museums, One Ticket

A single admission ticket grants entry to both Kaimei School and the Uwa Folk and Historical Museum, allowing visitors to enjoy a comprehensive cultural journey.

These institutions are more than places to visit — they are windows into how education and the quiet resilience of daily life helped shape a nation in transition.

In this peaceful corner of Ehime, history becomes personal, and travel becomes transformation.

📷 Follow the Story Beyond the Museum
To discover the ongoing activities, seasonal exhibits, and behind-the-scenes stories from the Uwa Folk and Historical Museum, follow them on Instagram:
👉 @uwamingukan

From captivating photos of historical tools to updates on local events and scenery, their feed offers a deeper look into the everyday heritage of rural Japan.