Vories Memorial Hall

Overview

Vories Memorial Hall is a museum in Jionji-cho Moto, Omihachiman, Shiga Prefecture. Its official name is the Hitotsuyanagi Memorial Hall, and it is a facility closely tied to the architect William Merrell Vories, who was based in Omihachiman and devoted himself to architecture and social work across Japan. It is operated by the Omi Brotherhood public interest foundation and is a designated cultural property of Shiga Prefecture. This is a quiet, characterful memorial hall where you can encounter Vories' character and his work.

Highlights

• ●A memorial hall tied to the architect W. M. Vories
• ●Officially named the Hitotsuyanagi Memorial Hall
• ●A characterful Western-style building from 1931
• ●A designated cultural property of Shiga Prefecture

History

The building was completed in 1931. Vories made Omihachiman the center of his activities and is known for designing many buildings, including houses, schools, and churches. This hall bears his name and serves as a place that conveys his legacy to the present. Preserved as a designated cultural property of Shiga Prefecture, it has been cared for and passed down by the Omi Brotherhood. For details of the exhibits and the hall's origins, it is best to check official information.

Map

35.1399, 136.0947 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Walk to the hall through the townscape from JR Omihachiman Station
2. 2Tour Vories Memorial Hall and encounter his legacy
3. 3Visit the Vories buildings scattered around Omihachiman
4. 4Round off the day strolling the waterways and old town

Did you know?

💡 The official name, Hitotsuyanagi Memorial Hall, comes from the fact that Vories became a naturalized Japanese citizen under the name Hitotsuyanagi Mereru. A distinctive point is that this is the memorial hall of a man who was not only an architect but also poured his energy into social work such as medicine and education through the Omi Brotherhood.

Nearby spots