Noguchi Hideyo Memorial Museum

【The Origin of Indomitable Determination and Love】 Experience the true face of the great person on the thousand yen bill at the 'Noguchi Hideyo Memorial Museum'

The world-renowned bacteriologist, Hideyo Noguchi, who is also familiar as the portrait on the thousand yen bill. The 'Noguchi Hideyo Memorial Museum,' located in his hometown of Inawashiro, is a popular museum for both children and adults, where you can deeply touch upon his tumultuous life and human side.

■ The 'Irori' of the Birthplace and the Pillar of Determination that Started It All 
A must-see point here is the thatched-roof 'birthplace' that has been preserved as it was at that time. The 'irori' (hearth) of fate, where he suffered a severe burn on his left hand at the age of one and a half, which later inspired him to pursue a career in medicine, is actually preserved. Furthermore, when you witness the words he deeply carved into the floor pillar with a small knife at the age of 19, 'I will not set foot in this place again until I achieve my purpose,' his extraordinary determination and passion resonate through time.

■ An Interactive Exhibit to Converse with the Realistic 'Hideyo Noguchi Robot' 
The exhibition area inside the museum is very modern and highly entertaining, which is a major attraction. The highlight is the intricate 'Hideyo Noguchi Robot' that welcomes you in a room recreated to resemble the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research in America. Its energetic gestures and speech are astonishingly realistic! Additionally, in the 'Experience! Bacterium' corner, you can enjoy learning about the invisible world of bacteria that he dedicated his life to, in a fun, game-like manner using touch panels.

This is a fulfilling spot that merges intellectual curiosity with playfulness, not just ending as 'studying history.' The scenery of Inawashiro viewed after learning about his life should appear a little more powerful and warm than usual.