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Wakayama Prefectural Museum
Displays exhibits on the worship of Mount Koya and the Kumano faith, along with artifacts related to the Kii Tokugawa family.
The Wakayama Prefectural Museum collects and exhibits cultural assets related to Wakayama Prefecture. It originated from the former prefectural art museum established in 1963, and the current building-designed by renowned architect Kisho Kurokawa-opened in 1994. Located near Wakayama Castle and adjacent to the Wakayama Prefectural Museum of Modern Art, it’s ideal to visit both together.
The permanent exhibition, titled “The History of Kinokuni,” is divided into six zones that trace Wakayama’s history and culture from the Paleolithic era to modern times. The displays focus on the lives of local people, with highlights including fascinating materials related to Mount Koya and the Kumano faith, which are central to Kishu’s cultural identity.
The museum also features numerous replicas of cultural properties that visitors can touch, making it an engaging way to learn about Wakayama’s history. Its collection includes many artifacts connected to the Kii Tokugawa family. In addition, the museum regularly holds special and themed exhibitions introducing various aspects of Wakayama’s heritage and notable figures. Details of current exhibitions can be found on the museum’s official website.
Highlights
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Showcases the history of Wakayama Prefecture from the Paleolithic era to the present.
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Features extensive and fascinating exhibits on the Kumano faith.
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Hosts a variety of special and thematic exhibitions throughout the year.
Photos
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The building was designed by architect Kisho Kurokawa.
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The permanent exhibition introduces the lives and culture of people across different historical periods.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
English, Traditional Chinese and Simplified Chinese are available.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
Yes, it is.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
Yes.
Q
Is it possible to re-enter the premises?
It is possible on the same day.
Reviews
Official FAQs
- Name in Japanese
- 和歌山県立博物館
- Postal Code
- 640-8137
- Address
- 1-4-14 Fukiage, Wakayama City, Wakayama
- Telephone
- 073-436-8670
- Closed
- Mondays(If it falls on a holiday, closed on the following weekday), New Year’s holiday period.
- Business Hours
- 9:30am - 5:00pm(Admission allowed until 4:30pm)
- Admission
- Permanent exhibitions・Special exhibitions Adults 310yen, University students 190yen
- Access
- About 2 minutes walk from “Kencho-mae” bus stop
- Credit Cards
- Not accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)