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吹屋小学校 Fukiya shōgakkō
Built in 1909 when the area was still wealthy from the copper mines, the school, like the rest of the Fukiya area, saw its population dwindle as the mines closed. In 2009 only 6 students remained in the entire school. It was known as the oldest wooden school still in use in Japan until it finally closed in 2012. The school has been preserved as an important local landmark and popular attraction for visitors. You can only view it from the outside, yet many consider it to be one of the area's highlights.
One of Japan's many remaining Edo-period villages, Fukiya is well known for the unique burnt orange color of the buildings. The color comes from a mix of iron-oxide and vermillion known as bengara, a bastardized pronunciation of Bengal, where the pigment was originally produced. Some of the buildings are locally-owned shops, while others, such as the post office, can only be viewed from the outside.
ベンガラ館 Bengara-kan
A collection of buildings that walk visitors through the steps of gathering and creating the bengara dyes, as well as the dyeing process.
笹畝坑道 Sasaune-kōdō
One of the old copper mines.
西江邸 Nishie-tei
The house was built by the Nishie family who prospered from both the copper mines and the bengara dyes and fabrics. The house remains the property of the Nishie family.
ベンガラ染体験
The Fukiya area is famous for its rusty-red bengara dyes which it has been producing since the Edo Period. Those who like the color can of course purchase various articles of dyed clothing at various shops in the town however, there is another option for those interested in bengara dyes: learn to dye your own scarves. Those interested in the dyeing experience need a reservation at least 2 days in advance.