Gem of the Satoyama, Visit the Taifuku Village School Museum

A Charming Art Space in the Mountains

In the quiet mountain village of Taifuku in Shimo-Ina District, Nagano Prefecture, you will find the Taifuku Village School Museum. This museum is housed in a renovated elementary school building surrounded by lush greenery. The brick building retains the atmosphere of the 1930s, while the exhibition space is filled with the warmth of wood.

Encounters with Local Artists

The artist who is the namesake of the museum, Kurasawa Okuyoshi, is a Western-style painter born in this area. His unique portraits are displayed in the museum, and from his works depicting the lives of villagers, you can feel his deep attachment to his hometown. You can also appreciate the works of the master metalworker, Tagaharu Iguchi.

Nostalgic School Scenes

In addition to viewing the artworks, a highlight is the corner that reproduces the former classrooms and staff rooms. The writings on the blackboard, retro teaching aids, and students' works evoke the scenery of an old-fashioned school.

Hidden Cafe Embraced by Nature

In the museum's courtyard, there is a cafe designed after an old farmhouse kitchen, offering dishes made with locally grown vegetables and mountain delicacies. This extraordinary space, where you can experience local flavors and art, is an excellent hideaway spot for a leisurely time.

Access

The nearest station is Uwamura Station on the Shinano Railway. It is recommended to use public transportation as the narrow streets make driving inconvenient. The area surrounding the museum is dotted with private houses, making it suitable for a stroll. Nearby accommodation options include hot spring inns and farm stay accommodations in Shimo-Ina District.