The museum building was constructed in 1914 as the former Tottori Prefectural Library, a rare example of early 20th-century brick architecture in the region.
The name 'WarabeKan' is derived from 'warabe-uta,' which refers to traditional Japanese children's songs.
The museum collection includes a significant archive of scores and audio recordings of folk songs from the Meiji and Taisho eras.
The facility features a large collection of 'karakuri' (mechanical) toys that demonstrate early automation principles.
The building was designated as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan due to its historical architectural significance.
WarabeKan is a specialized museum in Tottori dedicated to the history of Japanese nursery rhymes and traditional toys. The facility is housed in a restored red-brick structure that originally served as the Tottori Prefectural Library. The museum is divided into three distinct floors focusing on nursery songs, historical Japanese toys, and contemporary play areas for children. It serves as a research and exhibition center for Japanese folk music culture, featuring displays of mechanical musical instruments and vintage playthings. The exhibits are interactive, allowing visitors to engage with the sounds and aesthetics of historical childhood in Japan. The museum actively hosts seasonal workshops and musical performances centered around children's literature.
The exterior red-brick facade, especially during the autumn foliage season when the contrast with the leaves is most striking.
Use the interactive musical displays on the first floor to hear authentic recordings of regional folk songs.
Allocate time to explore the building's architecture, as the brickwork and internal design reflect early 1900s craftsmanship.
Check the event calendar for seasonal craft workshops if visiting with young children.
Do not treat the exhibits as a standard playground; handle delicate, historical artifacts with care.
Closed on Wednesdays; if a national holiday falls on a Wednesday, the museum is typically closed the following day.
Remove shoes before entering certain indoor play areas; follow staff instructions regarding the handling of historical toy displays.
