The Museum of Kyoto (Former Bank of Japan Kyoto Branch)

The Museum of Kyoto occupies one of Kyoto’s finest historic buildings. Its annex, completed in 1906 as the Former Bank of Japan Kyoto Branch, was designed by celebrated architects Kingo Tatsuno and Uheiji Nagano.

The magnificent red-brick façade with white granite detailing is a classic example of the Tatsuno Style, the architectural language that helped define Japan’s public buildings during the Meiji era. Today, the beautifully preserved banking hall has been incorporated into the museum, allowing visitors to experience both Kyoto’s cultural history and one of its greatest architectural landmarks.

History

The Kyoto Branch of the Bank of Japan was completed in 1906 to support the city’s growing commercial and financial activities.

Designed by Kingo Tatsuno, architect of Tokyo Station and the Bank of Japan Head Office, together with Uheiji Nagano, the building represents one of the finest surviving examples of early twentieth-century bank architecture in western Japan.

Following the relocation of banking operations, the historic building was carefully restored and incorporated into The Museum of Kyoto in 1988, preserving its original banking hall and many architectural details.

Highlights

Designed by Kingo Tatsuno and Uheiji Nagano

The building is one of Kyoto’s finest examples of Tatsuno’s architectural style and demonstrates the influence of two of Japan’s leading modern architects.

Red Brick and Granite Façade

Its elegant combination of red brick and white granite is a signature feature of Tatsuno’s architecture, creating a dignified and timeless appearance.

Former Bank of Japan Branch

Visitors can explore the historic banking hall and other preserved spaces that illustrate the role of the Bank of Japan during the Meiji era.

Part of Kyoto’s Historic Sanjo Street

The building stands among several important modern landmarks along Sanjo Street, making it an essential stop for architecture enthusiasts.

Museum of Kyoto

Today, the building serves as part of The Museum of Kyoto, where visitors can enjoy exhibitions on Kyoto’s history, art, and traditional culture within a remarkable historic setting.

Visit Tips

Don’t miss the beautifully preserved former banking hall with its high ceilings, elegant columns, and historic vault. It is one of the best places in Kyoto to experience Meiji-era public architecture from the inside.

The museum is also an ideal starting point for a walking tour of Sanjo Street’s historic architecture, including Nakagyo Post Office, Buntsubaki Building, ART COMPLEX 1928, and the Kyoto Damascene Company.