Taito City Shitamachi Folk Museum

Overview

The Taito City Shitamachi Folk Museum, located just next to Ueno Park, is a museum where you can experience the life and culture of Tokyo's shitamachi from the Edo period to the mid-Showa period through precious materials and models. On the first floor, you can see a diorama recreating the townscape of that time, as well as everyday household items that were actually used, offering a glimpse into the lives of shitamachi residents. For example, there's a recreated back alley with a shared well, long houses lined with shops like dagashiya (candy stores) and doutsuboya (copperware shops), and a typical merchant's house from that era, a flower-thong manufacturing and wholesale shop. These exhibits not only vividly portray the daily lives of the time but also include items that visitors can touch and interact with, allowing for a deeper understanding of their lives. The second floor features exhibits recreating life in the 1950s and 60s, along with a corner where you can try out old-fashioned games. This provides a nostalgic experience and allows visitors to connect with the lifestyles of the past. Here you'll find displays like old telephone booths, rickshaws, a sento (public bathhouse) counter, and old-fashioned toys. It’s a valuable experience for adults reminiscing about their childhoods and children experiencing these games for the first time. The special exhibition room features various themes showcasing precious materials from the Edo to Showa periods. The Taito City Shitamachi Folk Museum is a recommended museum for history buffs, those interested in shitamachi culture, and those who enjoy a retro atmosphere.