Explore Taisho-era architecture at the Missionary Couple Memorial Hall

Located about a 10-minute walk uphill from Kitami Station, this Western-style building was once the residence of American missionaries, the Pearson couple, during the Taisho era. The house has been converted into a museum and is open to the public. The couple traveled across Hokkaido spreading their faith and were instrumental in preventing the establishment of a red-light district in Kitami, thereby saving many women. The residence is also the northernmost architectural work in Japan by William Merrell Vories, a renowned architect known for his Western-style designs. On the first floor, you can find exhibits such as a reed organ from 1878 and other relics like Bibles. As you walk up to the second floor, you’ll hear the creaking sounds typical of wooden structures. The former reception room now displays materials from Kitami’s sister city, Elizabeth City, along with photographs of people who were part of the cultural exchange. Although I am neither a Christian nor an architecture enthusiast, I found this place to be a wonderful spot to experience the atmosphere and history of the era. Admission is free, and visitors are required to fill out a simple registration form (indicating whether you’re from within or outside Hokkaido) before changing into slippers to explore the museum. Behind the building, there’s Pearson Park, a spacious area that’s perfect for families with children to enjoy. If you’re visiting Kitami, this is a must-see spot! 📍 Address: 7-4-28 Saiwai-cho, Kitami City, Hokkaido 🚃 Access: About a 15-minute walk from Kitami Station 📞 Phone: 0157-23-2546 🕰️ Hours: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM Closed: Mondays, the day after holidays, and during the New Year holidays 💰 Admission: Free Parking: Available