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Showa Roman-gura – Oita

🏮 Showa Roman-gura (昭和ロマン蔵) – Oita Prefecture

A Nostalgic Journey into Japan’s Showa Era

Showa Roman-gura is a unique retro-themed museum and cultural space located in Bungotakada City, Oita Prefecture. Housed in restored storehouses, this attraction brings Japan’s Showa period (1926–1989) back to life with exhibits, shops, and hands-on experiences. It’s part of the city’s larger effort to recreate a Showa-era townscape, perfect for travelers looking to experience Japan’s nostalgic charm.


🏫 What You’ll Find Inside

  • 🏮 Showa Town Museum (昭和の町展示館)
    Reproduces everyday life from the mid-20th century, including:

    • A retro classroom

    • Old-fashioned living rooms and kitchens

    • Vintage electronics, toys, and advertisements

  • 🎥 Showa Movie Theater (昭和の夢町三丁目館)
    Enjoy vintage film posters, projectors, and sometimes screenings of old Japanese movies

  • 🛍️ Retro Shopping Street
    Explore shops selling Showa-themed snacks, toys, and souvenirs
    Try classic treats like dagashi (cheap candies) and ramune soda

  • 👘 Dress-up and Photo Spots
    Rent Showa-era school uniforms or kimonos and take photos in recreated sets


🕰️ Step Back in Time

  • The entire area around the museum is part of the “Showa no Machi” (Showa Town)

  • Streets are lined with retro-style signage, classic cars, and local businesses

  • Events and parades are sometimes held to celebrate the nostalgia of Japan’s past


📍 Access

  • 🚗 About 1 hour by car from Beppu or Usa Jingu

  • 🚌 Buses available from Nakatsu Station or Usa Station

  • Free or paid parking available nearby


🎯 Why Visit Showa Roman-gura?

  • 🕰️ Experience life in Japan during the 1950s–70s

  • 📸 Great photo opportunities with vintage sets and costumes

  • 🎓 Fun for all ages — both educational and entertaining

  • 🎁 Find unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of old Japan

  • 🍡 Try local snacks and traditional flavors


Showa Roman-gura is more than a museum — it’s a time-travel destination that brings Japan’s recent past to life in a fun and immersive way. Perfect for families, couples, and nostalgia lovers, it's a highlight of any visit to northern Oita Prefecture.

Official Website
https://oita-tourism.com/en/attractions/detail_1046.html

Accommodation sites
Agoda

Expedia

Booking.com

 

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