Naruto German House
During WWI, Japanese forces held 1,000 German POWs here. The commander treated them humanely — they formed an orchestra and performed Beethoven's 9th in 1918, the first complete performance in Japan.
1.5–2 hours
¥400 (adult), ¥100 (junior high & elementary). Combined ticket with Uzunomichi available (e.g. adult ¥730)
9:30–17:00 (last entry 16:30). Closed 4th Mon (next day if holiday), Dec 28–31.
Year-round (December concert special)
15 min drive from Naruto city; taxi recommended
Location
Why Visit
- 1
Original reconstructed barrack shows the surprisingly comfortable conditions given to prisoners
- 2
December Ode to Joy concert at the site attracts German musicians annually
- 3
The story of benevolent captivity is well-documented and rarely told outside Japan
Local Tips
Built to commemorate WWI German POWs held at the nearby Bando camp — the prisoners lived in remarkably humane conditions and introduced Germany's Christmas traditions and music to Japan. Beethoven's 9th Symphony had its Japanese premiere performed here by prisoners. A genuinely moving and obscure piece of history. The reconstruction is authentic and detailed.
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