Western-style establishment built in the Meiji era

In Ako, which prospered by salt production, there used to be two agency buildings related to salt-making. One is the existing Ako agency of salt (Enmu-kyoku) which is the current Folklore Museum, and the other is the Shin-en branch office, which has already been destroyed. This building has been constructed in 1908 as Ako Salt Agency of the Finance Ministry in accordance with the Monopoly Act executed in1908. Master carpenters from local Ako were involved in the construction work, mixing Japanese technique with the Western style called Art Nouveau. The building maintains its majestic appearance after a century. The place has been functioning as Ako City Folklore Museum since 1982 exhibiting livingware, everyday tools, and folklore. In 1986, the place has been designated by the Hyogo prefectural government as important tangible cultural property.