Otaru Art Base

The Otaru Art Base is not just an assembly of museums; it showcases Otaru’s significant history and cultural development. Otaru has long served as a gateway to Hokkaido. It grew and prospered in the late 1800s and early 1900s, especially during the Meiji and Showa periods. Its strategic location as a port town attracted shipping companies, merchants, and banks, making it a bustling economic hub of northern Japan. This prosperity helped create important cultural institutions, leading to the establishment of the Otaru Art Base.

The Otaru Art Base, inaugurated by the Nitori company from Hokkaido, was created to express gratitude to the community and its supporters. Repurposing historical buildings preserves architectural heritage and enriches Otaru’s cultural landscape, offering a space where art and history meet.

Stained Glass Museum

Photo by: These artworks originally adorned church windows across the UK

The Stained-Glass Museum in the Former Takahashi Warehouse was constructed in 1923. This two-story stone structure is home to exquisite stained-glass pieces that transport visitors to another era. Crafted in England between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these artworks originally adorned church windows across the UK. Many churches have been demolished over the years, but they have lovingly preserved the stained glass.

Highlights include “The Last Supper,” which stunningly depicts Jesus’s final meal, and “God and The Glory of Great Britain,” a tribute to England’s victory in WWI.

Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch

Photo by: PIXTA/ はっさく A representation of Otaru’s booming economic past.

The Former Mitsui Bank Otaru Branch is an architectural gem. It represents Otaru’s booming economic past. This striking structure features Renaissance-style design elements, intricate stonework and breathtaking vaulted ceilings. Visitors can explore the bank’s original features, including the beautifully preserved safety deposit box vault and the elegant conference room adorned with vintage leather furnishings and a classic clock.

Nitori Museum of Art

Photo by: PIXTA/ はっさく See masterpieces by Japanese painters.

This museum was once the Hokkaido Takushoku Bank, where writer Takiji Kobayashi worked. The collection includes masterpieces by Japanese painters Taikan Yokoyama and Gyokudo Kawai, as well as Western works by Ryusei Kishida. Visitors can also admire the stunning stained glass works of Louis Comfort Tiffany in the basement’s Art Nouveau and Art Deco Glass gallery.

House of Western Art

Photo by: PIXTA/ はっさく Designated as a Historic Building in 2012.

The House of Western Art is located along the serene Otaru Canal. This museum showcases a captivating collection of stained glass, Art Nouveau and Art Deco artworks from Europe and the U.S. The former Naniwa Warehouse, designated as a Historic Building in 2012, enhances the experience with its architecture.

Each museum provides an educational experience, ensuring visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for art and history.