Showakan

Historical Monument

Tochigi Prefecture's fourth prefectural office, seen as a symbol of the prefecture, was used for the 65-year period between 1938 and 2003. After the building of a new prefectural office in 2003, in response to the large number of prefectural residents requesting its preservation in light of its cultural value, the facade of the fourth prefectural office was moved to its current location and restored. The modern structure was designed by Tochigi-born architect Koichi Sato, who also famously designed the Hibiya Public Hall and Waseda University's Okuma Auditorium. Areas are open to the general public for viewing, including the official reception hall, which has a beautiful arch ceiling and comb-shaped pediment; and stairs with hand railings whose once lost decorative elements have been restored to their original state.

Spot details

Address: Tochigi Utsunomiya-shi Hanawada 1-1-20
Area: Utsunomiya Area
Phone: 0286232189
Hours: 8:30-17:15
[SaturdaySunday]10:00-17:15
Closed: The main government building may be closed due to legal inspections and cleaning.
Fees: [Admission fee]Free
Parking Lot: Available(250spaces)
Smoking: Not available
Wi-Fi: Not available
Wheelchair accessible: Available
Infant friendly: Available