Cultural Path Futaba Museum

25/12/2025

This Museum is part of Nagoya’s Cultural Path, a historic walking route connecting important cultural sites across the city.

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The residence of Japan’s first actress.

The Futaba Museum was the residence of Sadayakko Kawakami(July 18, 1871 – December 7, 1946), considered Japan’s first actress, and the entrepreneur Momosuke Fukuzawa. I looked into the construction year but couldn’t find any information. However, since the two lived there from 1920 to 1926, it’s likely a building that’s over 100 years old. It was relocated and restored to its current location in 2000 and opened as a museum in 2005.

As of 2024, the admission fee for adults is 200 yen. Similarly, the nearby Shumokukan has an entrance fee of 200 yen. However, you can get a combined ticket for both locations for 320 yen, which is a better deal.
As soon as you enter, there is an impressive spiral staircase. Young women were eagerly taking photos, so I waited a bit before taking my own pictures.

When you go up to the second floor, you’ll find beautiful stained glass. Buildings from this era that incorporate Western-style architecture often feature stained glass.

Inside the Western-style building, there is a Japanese-style room.

On the second floor of this building, there is a section dedicated to writers from Nagoya. The explanations were written in Japanese, so they might be difficult for international visitors to understand.

It’s a museum you can explore in about an hour. I recommend taking a walk that includes Nagoya Castle, Nagoya City Archives, Shumokukan, Kenchuji Temple, and Tokugawaen.

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I’ve compiled a list of Nagoya’s places that I’ve personally visited. Is Nagoya boring? Not at all! While it has developed as an industrial city, it also hides interesting places full of history and culture. Use this guide to explore Nagoya and discover its hidden gems.