The Gujo Hachiman Old Government Building Memorial Museum is a historic modern building located in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture. Completed in 1936 as the Hachiman Town Office in Gujo District, it served as the town’s administrative headquarters until 1994. Today, the building houses a tourist information center for Gujo City and is registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan under the official name Former Hachiman Town Office Building.
In 1882, a silk-reeling company called Kaishosha opened on this site. In 1922, the former Hachiman Town Office building was constructed here.
In 1936, a new Western-style town hall was completed. The first floor was used for administrative work, while the second floor served as the council chamber and related facilities.
The building continued to serve as the town’s main government office until 1994, when the administrative headquarters relocated to a newly constructed building. In 1998, the former town hall was registered as a Tangible Cultural Property. Following renovation and restoration work, it reopened as a tourist information center in 1999. Its current name was selected through a public naming competition.
Today, the building remains an important visitor facility, providing tourist information while preserving the atmosphere and architectural character of an earlier era.
The building stands near the center of Gujo Hachiman’s historic town district, on the left bank of the Yoshida River beside Shinbashi Bridge.
The open space in front of the building is one of Gujo Hachiman’s symbolic public areas and serves as an important gathering place for the Gujo Odori, the town’s famous traditional dance festival.
The building has two entrance porches, one at the front and another on the south side. Its roof structure uses the truss construction method, which represented advanced building technology at the time.
With its nostalgic Western-style architecture and historical atmosphere, the former town hall offers visitors a glimpse into the civic life and architectural heritage of the Meiji, Taisho, and Showa eras.
Tourist Information Counter: Provides information to help visitors explore Gujo Hachiman and the surrounding area.
Souvenir Shop: Offers local products and souvenirs from the region.
Light Refreshments Corner (Former Town Hall Cafeteria): A place to enjoy a snack during your visit.
Free Rest Area (Yoshida River Salon): A comfortable space where visitors can take a break.
Kawasaki Hall: A large multipurpose meeting room.
Meeting Rooms: Spaces available for meetings and other gatherings.