
Kaimei School
Step into Japan's Meiji era at Kaimei School, the oldest Western-style school building in Shikoku, a preserved national treasure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

Kaimei School
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Japan's Meiji era at Kaimei School, the oldest Western-style school building in Shikoku, a preserved national treasure.
"It's like stepping back in time; the preserved classroom and exhibits are incredibly well-maintained and offer a unique historical experience."

🎟️ Get Your Ticket
Your Kaimei School ticket also covers the Uwa Folk Crafts Museum. Buy it at the Folk Museum reception.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
There's a long, stone-paved hill to climb to reach the school.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 97 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Meiji Era Classroom
Main School Building
Step into a perfectly preserved classroom with original desks, chairs, and textbooks from the Meiji period.

Western-Style Architecture
Exterior
Admire the distinctive pseudo-Western style architecture, a national Important Cultural Property.

Educational Exhibits
Interior
Explore thousands of historical educational materials, posters, and tools that showcase the evolution of learning.

Kofun Period Artifacts
Archaeological Museum
Discover ancient bronze artifacts and excavated items from the Kofun period, highlighting Japan's deep history.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
Tickets & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Get Your Ticket
Your Kaimei School ticket also covers the Uwa Folk Crafts Museum. Buy it at the Folk Museum reception.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
There's a long, stone-paved hill to climb to reach the school.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The exhibits are extensive; plan for at least 1-2 hours to explore thoroughly.
📅 Book Class Reenactment
Experience a Meiji-era class! Reservations are recommended for this unique activity.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Get Your Ticket
Your Kaimei School ticket also covers the Uwa Folk Crafts Museum. Buy it at the Folk Museum reception.
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
There's a long, stone-paved hill to climb to reach the school.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
The exhibits are extensive; plan for at least 1-2 hours to explore thoroughly.
📅 Book Class Reenactment
Experience a Meiji-era class! Reservations are recommended for this unique activity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kaimei School for its exceptional preservation of Meiji-era history, offering an immersive step back in time. The well-maintained building and extensive educational exhibits are highlights, though the uphill approach and limited onsite amenities are noted. The combined ticket with the Folk Crafts Museum adds value to the visit.
"The private school Shingido, built in 1869, and the Kaimei School building, which opened there and was completed in 1872, remain here.
The old school building is a two-story wooden building in the Western style, and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. There are many exhibits on display.
Admission tickets include a ticket to the Folk Crafts Museum next door."
net k-m
"It is said to be the oldest school in Western Japan.
Tickets can be purchased at the reception desk of the Uwa Folk Museum across the street. It costs 700 yen per adult.
As soon as you enter the school building, you feel as if you have traveled back in time to the Meiji era.
Desks and chairs, classroom furniture, textbooks, various school posters and tools, etc. from that time...
It has been preserved very well.
It would take a considerable amount of time to look at the materials carefully.
There is also an option to experience a re-enactment of a Meiji era class.
I would like to make time to participate next time.
It is a wonderful exhibition facility."
Seiichi Hoshi
"Kaimei School is located in front of Kokyoji Temple in Uwa. Head towards Yamate in the town of Uwa, and it is on your left at the top of a long, long stone-paved hill. I visited the school over 40 years ago, and it is still the same today in 2025. It is only natural, as it has been there for so long. The building has bright white walls and a distinctive tiled roof, and the gravel in the garden is always well maintained, so it is always kept in good condition. Old documents and historical hanging scrolls are on display inside the building, and it seems that you can take classes from the Meiji period if you make a reservation.
I wonder what the woman at the reception desk from about 40 years ago is doing now. She was very friendly and doted on me when I visited as a child."
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What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kaimei School is located in front of Kokyoji Temple in Uwa. Head towards Yamate in Uwa town, and it's on your left at the top of a long, stone-paved hill.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, it's advisable to look for public parking in the Uwa town area and be prepared for the uphill walk.
Uwa town is accessible by public transport, often involving train connections. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date routes.
The approach to Kaimei School involves a long, stone-paved hill, which may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Yes, using a reliable navigation app is recommended. Search for 'Kaimei School' or 'Uwa Folk Crafts Museum' to guide you to the general area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is 700 yen per adult, which includes entry to the Uwa Folk Crafts Museum next door.
Tickets are purchased at the reception desk of the Uwa Folk Museum, located across the street from Kaimei School.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official local tourism information or the Uwa Folk Museum for the most current times before your visit.
Information on specific discounts for students, seniors, or groups is not widely publicized. It's recommended to inquire at the ticket reception.
No, a valid admission ticket is required to enter Kaimei School and explore its exhibits.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a preserved Meiji-era classroom with original furniture, textbooks, and school materials, as well as extensive historical educational exhibits.
Photography policies can vary. It's advisable to check for signage or ask staff upon arrival regarding restrictions on photography, especially flash photography.
While not always advertised, inquire at the reception about the possibility of guided tours or if staff are available to provide insights into the exhibits.
This is an optional activity where visitors can participate in a simulated Meiji period class, offering a unique historical immersion. Reservations are often required.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the school and its exhibits. If you plan to participate in the class reenactment, allow extra time.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Kaimei School itself does not typically have dining facilities. It's recommended to find eateries in the nearby Uwa town area.
Uwa town likely offers local Japanese cuisine. Look for restaurants serving regional specialties for an authentic dining experience.
Picnicking is generally not permitted inside historical buildings or museums. It's best to enjoy your meals in designated areas outside the school.
Finding specific vegetarian or vegan options might require asking at restaurants. Japanese cuisine often has vegetable-based dishes, but cross-contamination can be a concern.
To avoid peak lunch crowds and have ample time for your visit, consider eating slightly before or after the main lunch hour (around 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM).
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary. Always look for signs or ask staff if photos are permitted, especially without flash, to preserve the historical artifacts.
The exterior architecture, the preserved classroom, and the displays of historical items offer great photographic opportunities. The approach up the hill also provides scenic views.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical sites and cultural properties due to preservation concerns and privacy. Check local regulations before flying drones.
Morning light can be soft and ideal for capturing the building's architecture. Afternoon light can create interesting shadows. Consider the weather for optimal shots.
Avoid using flash photography, as it can damage delicate historical materials. Be mindful of other visitors and maintain a respectful demeanor.










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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit