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Kanazawa Umimirai Library

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Kanazawa Umimirai Library

Selected as one of the "Top 25 Most Beautiful Public Libraries in the World", this is the city's fourth largest library.

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Supervised by :  Kanazawa city

The fourth major library in Kanazawa, it opened on May 21, 2011. Designed by the architectural duo Coelacanth K&H Architects Inc., the building, characterized by its distinctive round windows, is themed after a "cake box." This striking design has led to its recognition as one of the "Top 25 Most Beautiful Public Libraries in the World".

The approximately 6,000 round windows, reminiscent of bubbles floating on the sea, have been meticulously arranged to allow the perfect amount of light for reading. These windows come in sizes of 20cm, 25cm, and 30cm, and depending on their position, four different types of glass, including wire mesh glass and heat-absorbing glass, are used.

Given the library's proximity to historical port areas where merchant ships from the Edo and Clan rule periods once docked, and a region known for its production of items like soy sauce, there's a wealth of materials related to the sea and local crafts.

In addition, the library houses a gallery hosting exhibitions such as the "Sea Photography Exhibition" and "Craft Exhibition." An "Exchange Hall" for events is also available, with various events being held regularly.

Highlights

  • Selected as one of the "Top 25 Most Beautiful Public Libraries in the World".
  • Approximately 6,000 round windows are strategically placed to optimize reading light.
  • Rich collection of resources provides deep insights into Kanazawa City.
  • Equipped with an "Exchange Hall" for various events.

Photos

  • The building spans 45m both ways with a height of 19m, spanning three floors, and has won numerous architectural awards from Japan and abroad.

    The building spans 45m both ways with a height of 19m, spanning three floors, and has won numerous architectural awards from Japan and abroad.

  • The interior, predominantly in white, offers an open and bright atmosphere.

    The interior, predominantly in white, offers an open and bright atmosphere.

  • In addition to general books, there's a section dedicated to children's books and picture books.

    In addition to general books, there's a section dedicated to children's books and picture books.

Official FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.

Q

Can you provide services in foreign languages? (If so, please also inform us of the supported languages)
A

Yes, in English. However, this is limited to the days when our English-speaking staff is available.

Q

Is it possible to re-enter the premises?
A

Yes, it is.

Q

Is free WiFi available in the facility?
A

Yes, on the 2nd floor in the general book section and on the 3rd-floor regional information area.

Q

Are coin lockers available?
A

Yes. (You need 100 yen to lock which will be returned when you open the locker)

Q

Is photography allowed?
A

Photography inside the building is prohibited. External building shots are allowed.

Q

Is food and drink allowed?
A

Due to COVID-19 precautions, meals are not allowed. Eating and drinking are prohibited in the book sections to prevent damage. Drinking in the 1st-floor gallery is permitted. There's a vending machine for beverages on the 1st floor.

Reviews

1

Some reviews are AI-translated.

  • 夏婉欣
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    This place is a super trendy spot with a futuristic vibe! 👍

Details

Name in Japanese
金沢市立 金沢海みらい図書館
Postal Code
920-0341
Address
I 1-1 Jichumachi, Kanazawa City, Ishikawa
Telephone
076-266-2011
Closed
Wednesdays (Open if a public holiday; Closed on subsequent working day instead), Special Organizing Period (1st Monday of June to the day after the next, last Monday of November to the following Friday of the next week), December 29 - January 4.
Hours
10:00am - 7:00pm
Weekend and public holidays: 10:00am - 5:00pm
Admission
Free
Directions
Alight at "Kanazawa Umimirai Library" after a bus ride from JR West Japan & IR Ishikawa Railway Kanazawa Station with Hokuriku Railway Bus. A short walk from the bus stop.
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)
Hokkaido Tohoku Kanto Chubu Hokuriku Kansai Chugoku Shikoku Kyushu Okinawa