The Ogaki City Local History Museum is a museum in Ogaki City, Gifu Prefecture. Its collections include portraits and military equipment belonging to successive lords of the Ogaki Domain from the Toda family, as well as works by painters and calligraphers who were born in Ogaki or had close ties to the city.
This room displays portraits of successive domain lords, military equipment, and furnishings decorated with the Toda family’s nine-star crest. Audio explanations are available through headphones, allowing visitors to learn more about the history and legacy of the Toda family.
The local art exhibition room features works by distinguished artists from the region. Through these artworks, visitors can explore Ogaki’s artistic and cultural heritage from the Edo period (1603–1868) through the Showa period (1926–1989).
This room introduces the history and present-day character of Ogaki. Chronological displays and historical documents help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the city’s development and its place in the region.
The entrance lobby features several notable exhibits, including a replica equestrian statue of Toda Ujisetsu, a bust of Toda Ujitomo, a scale model of Ogaki Castle at 1:200, and a replica folding screen depicting the Battle of Sekigahara.
The gallery hosts exhibitions featuring both historical and contemporary artists from the local area, as well as photography exhibitions showcasing Ogaki. Visitors can discover the region’s artistic achievements and appreciate works inspired by the city and its surroundings.
A traditional Japanese-style meeting room is available for meetings, tea gatherings, and other events. Its traditional atmosphere provides a distinctive setting for a variety of activities.
The museum was established to honor the successive lords of the Ogaki Domain from the Toda family and preserve their legacy. It opened on October 9, 1985, commemorating the 350th anniversary of Toda Ujisetsu’s arrival at Ogaki Castle in 1635, during the Kan’ei era.
In addition to portraits, military equipment, and household furnishings associated with the former domain lords, the museum exhibits artworks and historical materials connected with notable people from Ogaki.
The museum is located next to the northwestern side of Ogaki Park, close to Ogaki Castle. Its convenient location makes it an excellent stop for visitors exploring the city’s historical attractions.
The museum grounds occupy the former residence of Toda Einosuke, the last chief retainer of the Ogaki Domain. The main gate and surrounding walls, including a wall made from repurposed ship planks, have been preserved from the original property.
The museum grounds include a Japanese garden featuring bonsai trees and stone-paved paths. Visitors can appreciate its changing appearance throughout the seasons.
One of the garden’s highlights is a magnificent satsuki azalea bonsai believed to be more than 500 years old. Its remarkable age and beauty make it a particularly noteworthy feature of the grounds.
The Ogaki City Local History Museum aims to introduce the city’s origins, historical development, and present-day character through the artistic and cultural achievements of people who helped shape the region.
By bringing together historical documents, fine art, traditional objects, and carefully preserved surroundings, the museum offers visitors an opportunity to experience the history and culture of Ogaki and deepen their appreciation of its local heritage.