The “Former Furukawa Mining Wakamatsu Building” is an indispensable part of the history of Wakamatsu Ward, Kitakyushu City. Built in 1919 (Taisho 8), this red brick building is a historic structure that supported the prosperity of the coal industry.
This article will introduce in detail the charm and highlights of the Former Furukawa Mining Wakamatsu Building, along with information about the surrounding area.
Tracing the History of the Former Furukawa Mining Wakamatsu Building
Wakamatsu and the History of the Coal Industry
During the Meiji era, coal mined in the Chikuhō Coalfield was transported from Wakamatsu Port to all over the country. For this reason, Wakamatsu thrived as the center of the coal industry, and many companies established offices and warehouses there.
Furukawa Mining and the Wakamatsu Building
In 1917, Furukawa Mining Co., Ltd. established its Wakamatsu branch. Two years later, they built an office building at its current location. The design was handled by Obayashi Corporation, a leading architectural firm at the time. The red brick building, which incorporated the Renaissance style, became a symbol of the modernization of Wakamatsu.
An Era that Walked Alongside the Building
The building played an important role as Furukawa Mining’s base along with the prosperity of the coal industry. However, after the 1960s, the coal industry declined due to the impact of the energy revolution. The building was also left unused, and its deterioration progressed.
Preservation Due to the Enthusiasm of Citizens
In 1995, Nippon Mining Co., Ltd. (the successor to Furukawa Mining) decided to demolish the building. However, the citizens demanded its preservation, and various movements, such as signature campaigns and fundraising, were launched. As a result, Kitakyushu City acquired the building, and renovations were completed in 2004. It took a new start as a hub for citizen exchange.
The Appeal of the Former Furukawa Mining Wakamatsu Building
Beautiful Renaissance-Style Architecture
The Former Furukawa Mining Wakamatsu Building is characterized by its beautiful design based on the Renaissance style. The arches and pillars at the main entrance, as well as the decorations of the window frames and under the eaves, tell the story of the high level of architectural technology at the time.
Various Events
Currently, a multi-purpose hall, a gallery, and a cafe are housed in the building. Lectures, concerts, exhibitions, and other events are held at the multi-purpose hall, making it a lively place for cultural exchange among citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What can I see inside the building?
A. There is a cafe and gallery on the first floor, and a multi-purpose hall on the second floor. There are also photos and materials on display that convey the building’s history.
Q. Is it okay to take photos inside the building?
A. Yes, photography is allowed. However, please note that photography may be restricted during events.
Full of Information About the Surrounding Area
In the area around the Former Furukawa Mining Wakamatsu Building, there are many facilities and tourist attractions that tell the story of the history of the coal industry.
- Wakamatsu Coal Hall: A Western-style building built in 1905.
- Ueno Building: A retro building from the Taisho era that is also used as a filming location for movies and commercials.
- Wakamatsu Ebisu Shrine: A shrine with a history of 1800 years.
Basic Information of the Former Furukawa Mining Wakamatsu Building
| Item | Content |
| Address | 1-11-18 Honmachi, Wakamatsu Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture |
| Phone Number | 093-741-1181 |
| Opening Hours | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM) |
| Closed Days | Mondays (or the next day if Monday is a public holiday), Year-end and New Year holidays |
| Admission Fee | Free |
| Access | Approximately 7-minute walk from JR Wakamatsu Station<br>Approximately 8 minutes by car from the Wakato exit of the Kitakyushu Urban Expressway |
| Parking | Available |
Summary
The Former Furukawa Mining Wakamatsu Building is a valuable building that conveys the history and culture of Wakamatsu. Why not enjoy sightseeing in Wakamatsu while experiencing the beautiful architecture and history?