Mint Museum, Osaka

The Mint Museum in Osaka occupies the historic site of Japan's former mint, established in 1871 during the Meiji Restoration when Japan was modernizing its currency system. The original mint facility was designed by British architect Thomas Waters and played a crucial role in producing Japan's first modern coins. The museum opened to the public in 1969 after mint operations relocated, preserving the site's industrial heritage and showcasing Japan's monetary history.

The museum houses over 4,000 artifacts related to currency production and monetary history, including rare coins from Japan and approximately 170 countries worldwide. The permanent collection features original minting machinery from the 19th century, historic Japanese currency spanning from ancient Wado Kaichin coins (Japan's oldest official currency from 708 AD) to modern commemorative issues. A significant highlight is the display of koban and oban gold coins from the Edo period, demonstrating pre-modern Japanese craftsmanship. The facility also preserves the original gas lamps and Western-style architecture of the Meiji era buildings.

Visitors can observe authentic coin production equipment, including the original steam-powered presses imported from Britain and hand-operated cutting machines. The museum offers hands-on experiences where guests can strike their own commemorative medals using traditional techniques. The guided tours explain the technical processes of minting, from metal preparation to final inspection. The adjacent Sakura Garden contains approximately 350 cherry trees of 100 different varieties, making it one of Osaka's premier cherry blossom viewing locations during the limited one-week opening period each April.

The museum is located in Kita-ku, approximately 15 minutes' walk from either Sakuranomiya Station on the JR Osaka Loop Line or Temmabashi Station on the Keihan Main Line and Osaka Metro Tanimachi Line. From Osaka Station, the journey takes about 20 minutes via the JR Loop Line. The facility is also accessible by Osaka City Bus, with stops near the main entrance. Admission is free, though advance reservations are required for group visits of 10 or more people. The museum provides audio guides in English, Chinese, and Korean for ¥500. Photography is permitted in most areas except special exhibition rooms.