Japan Travelogue: Tokyo Fire Museum
Tokyo, a city profoundly shaped by the ravages of fire, hosts the Tokyo Fire Museum, offering a compelling insight on the destructive nature of fire and the struggles to contain it throughout history.
Situated above Yotsuya 3-Chome Station, the Tokyo Fire Museum spans six floors in the Yotsuya Fire Station building, with a library on the 7th floor and a lounge on the 10th floor. The visitor’s route starts on the 6th floor, winding its way down to the basement, skipping the 2nd floor which is home to the Yotsuya Fire Station.
Captivating displays showcase specialized uniforms, crew banners, and formidable tools utilized to dismantle structures. This age-old tradition is honored annually at the Edo Firemen’s Memorial event in Yutenji. Over time, Japan adopted firefighting techniques and equipment from the West, introducing pumps, hoses, and carts into their repertoire.
There’s also anticipated Dezome-shiki (New Year’s Parade of Firemen), organized by the Tokyo Fire Department to usher in the New Year, begins with a stunning display of daredevil feats that rival the famous acrobatic acts of Cirque du Soleil.
Join Michelle as she visits the Tokyo Fire Museum and experience the history and evolution of firefighting in Japan.