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Osaka · Japan

Senpukan: what's nearby, how to get there and when to go · 2026

Residents walking past the Mint Bureau grounds navigate strict heritage preservation zones where early Western masonry sits quietly against everyday neighbourhood routines.

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Exchange rate¥157.9per 1 $JPY — the local currencyas of Nov 2, 2026
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About the place

Thomas Waters constructed Senpukan as a Western reception hall for the Japanese Mint Bureau.

Senpukan stands as the oldest surviving Western-style building in the city. Architect Thomas Waters planned the structure during the early Meiji period to host dignitaries associated with the national mint. The design incorporates classic Western masonry principles that were revolutionary for public infrastructure in the area at the time.

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Imperial visits, including a documented stay by the Meiji Emperor, established the residence as a prominent civic landmark. For long-term residents and scholars, the site offers an enduring physical record of industrial modernization rather than a crowded tourist hub, retaining quiet surroundings near the riverfront precinct.

Associations
  • Japanese Mint BureauThe hall was originally erected to accommodate guests of the mint.
  • Thomas WatersThe architect introduced Western brick and stone building methods here.
  • Meiji EmperorThe imperial sovereign stayed overnight in the building during his regional tour.
  • Public Access LimitsHistoric preservation policies restrict routine interior access for daily visitors.
Facts
  • The building served as a formal guest house for the Japanese Mint Bureau.
  • Architect Thomas Waters designed the structure as the earliest Western-style building in the city.
  • The Meiji Emperor stayed in the building during his formal regional visit.
Source: Wikipedia
Senpukan in pictures8 photos · 1 place
Senpukan
kanesue · cc-by-3.0 · Mar 31, 2012
Senpukan
kanesue · cc-by-3.0 · Mar 31, 2012
Senpukan
kanesue · cc-by-3.0 · Mar 31, 2012
Senpukan
Nagono · cc-by-sa-3.0 · Jul 1, 2012

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In the city151hosts welcome guests
2 sources · As of November 3, 2026
Source: TravelHub · OurAirports (public domain)

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