Former Niigata Customs House
旧新潟税関庁舎This gorgeous relic of Niigata City continues to showcase its port town history.
The Former Niigata Customs House, designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan, is the sole surviving customs house from the five ports of Japan that opened to international trade in the mid-19th century (Hakodate, Niigata, Yokohama, Kobe, and Nagasaki). It was constructed by local carpenters inspired by Western architecture from Yokohama and Edo (modern-day Tokyo), resulting in a unique style now known as “pseudo-Western architecture.” While it appears Western at first glance, many elements reflect traditional Japanese tastes.
The Former Niigata Customs House sits on the grounds of the Minatopia Niigata City History Museum, which contains restored historical relics and structures recreating the scenery of old port town Niigata.
- Area
- Niigata and Aga Area
- Category
- History and Culture
General Information
| Address | 新潟県新潟市中央区柳島町2-10 |
|---|---|
| Directions | Approx. 20 min. drive from the Niigata-Nishi IC on the Hokuriku Expressway. Or take the Niigata City Loop Bus from JR Niigata Station Bandai Exit Bus Terminal and get off at “Rekishi Hakubutsu-kan Mae.” |
| Car Park | Regular cars: 66 cars Large vehicles: 7 buses |
| Opening Times | 9:30 am - 6:00 pm (April to September) 9:30 am - 5:00 pm (October to March) Closed: Mondays, the day after public holidays, New Year’s period, and during maintenance. |
| Prices | Free of charge |
Contact
| Name | Minatopia Niigata City History Museum |
|---|---|
| Telephone Number | 025-225-6111 |
| Website |
