Aomori Bank Memorial Hall (Former 59th Bank Head Office Main Building)

Overview

The Aomori Bank Memorial Hall (Former 59th Bank Head Office Main Building) is a historically significant structure located in Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Built in 1904 (Meiji 37) as the head office of the 59th National Bank (now Aomori Bank), it has been preserved and open to the public as the bank's memorial hall since 1967 (Showa 42). The architecture is primarily Renaissance in style, with a beautifully ornamented exterior. The interior features an abundance of traditional wood, including locally sourced Japanese cypress (hiba) and Japanese zelkova (keyaki), showcasing the advanced craftsmanship of the time. The gold-leafed leather wallpaper on the ceiling is a particularly precious remnant from the original construction, a testament to the exceptional skill of the artisans. The hall houses a rich collection of exhibits detailing the history of Aomori Bank and the local culture of Hirosaki, offering insights into the daily life and economic activities of the era. The memorial hall is also conveniently located near numerous other tourist attractions, including Hirosaki Castle and the Nebuta Festival, making it an ideal stop on your sightseeing itinerary. The Aomori Bank Memorial Hall (Former 59th Bank Head Office Main Building) is a valuable structure where you can truly experience history and culture. Be sure to visit when you're in Hirosaki!