In Otaru city, there are many ship votive plaques that were dedicated by Kitamae-bune sailors praying for safe voyages, and some of them have been designated as cultural properties that make up Japan Heritage sites.

The ship ema are important historical documents as they depict ships and sails in detail and include the names of the ships and donors, making them a valuable Kitamae-bune heritage that is also appealing as works of art.

This special exhibition will introduce the ship ema and the places where they were dedicated through photo panels, explanations, and related materials. It will be held at the former Otaru Warehouse, which was built by Nishide Magozaemon and Nishitani Shohachi, owners of Kitamae ships.

2020.9.10 (Thu) - 22 (Tue) 13 days Free admission 11:00 - 17:00 (Finished)

unga plus gallery 2F UNGA↑ (Unga Plus), 2-1-20 Ironai, Otaru City *Takano Hiroyasu (Otaru University of Commerce, Kitamae-bune Research and Utilization Network) will be in the gallery from 2pm to 3pm on the 13th (Sun) and 20th (Sun).

Boat votive plaques at Konpira Hall of Ryutokuji Temple Boat votive plaques at Shukutsu Ebisu Shrine Boat votive plaques at Ryujindo Hall of Tokugenji Temple Boat votive plaques at Emadou Hall of Shioya Shrine

Ship's nameplate (owned by Shioya Shrine)

Kitamae-bune related videos

Kitamae-bune Research and Utilization Network, Otaru Department Store UNGA↑

Ebisu Shrine, Shioya Shrine, Tokugenji Temple, Ryutokuji Temple, Otaru City Museum, Otaru University of Commerce Glocal Strategy Promotion Center, Regional Resilience Association

The latest information on the gallery and exhibitions is also available on social media from Otaru City, the Otaru City Board of Education, and the Otaru Tourism Association.

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