In Kurayoshi, Tottori Prefecture, traditional streets lined with beautiful red-tiled roofs and white-walled storehouses preserve the atmosphere of old Japan. Among these historic surroundings stands a remarkable circular school building, long cherished as a local landmark. Its distinctive architecture recalls a bygone era, from the spiral staircase that once echoed with children’s footsteps to the fan-shaped classrooms where students listened attentively to their teachers.
Although the aging building was once scheduled for demolition, strong support from local residents helped save it. Today, it has been given a new lease on life as the Enkei Theatre Kurayoshi Figure Museum, transforming a beloved piece of educational heritage into an extraordinary destination for enthusiasts of figures and collectibles.
Tottori Prefecture has a strong manga culture, while Kurayoshi is also home to a factory belonging to a figure manufacturer whose products are highly regarded around the world. Drawing on these local connections, the museum was created on an unprecedented scale, bringing together the region’s cultural heritage and Japan’s celebrated figure-making industry.
Inside, visitors can encounter an imaginative world populated by dinosaurs, animals, military models, anime heroes, and popular fictional characters. The exhibits appeal to collectors and pop-culture fans, while also offering an enjoyable introduction for families and travelers who are simply curious about Japanese figures.
The museum displays approximately 2,000 figures in dedicated exhibition areas. The collection covers a wide range of subjects, including prehistoric creatures, wildlife, and military themes. Many exhibits are designed to be enjoyed up close, and some can even be touched, making the experience more interactive than a conventional display museum.
As visitors move through the collection, they can appreciate the remarkable variety of figures, from realistic models inspired by the natural world to characters brought to life through Japanese popular culture. The exhibits offer plenty to discover for visitors of different ages and interests.
This museum is more than a place to look at finished models. Visitors can also learn about the processes involved in manufacturing figures and gain insight into the techniques and craftsmanship behind these detailed creations. Workshops provide opportunities to try making figures themselves, offering a hands-on experience that brings the creative process closer to visitors.
By combining exhibitions, learning, and practical activities, the museum creates opportunities for people of different generations and nationalities to connect through a shared interest in figures. Whether you are a dedicated collector, an anime fan, or a family looking for an engaging cultural attraction, the Enkei Theatre Kurayoshi Figure Museum offers a distinctive way to explore Japan’s creative culture while discovering the story of a historic school building brought back to life.
9:00-17:00
Summer (July-September) 9:00-18:00
Open year-round
High school students and adults 1,200 yen
Permanent exhibition only 1,000 yen
Special exhibition only 600 yen
Elementary and junior high school students 600 yen
Permanent exhibition only 500 yen
Special exhibition only 300 yen
Free for preschool children (under 6 years old)