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The Incheon Open Port Modern Architecture Museum is located in the historic open port district of Incheon, South Korea.

Visual Characteristics

The museum is housed within the former First Bank of Korea building, constructed in 1905. The structure is a two-story edifice built with red brick and granite. It features a prominent clock tower and a classical architectural style with arched windows and decorative cornices.

Location & Access Logistics

The museum is situated at 12, Songnim-dong 1-ga, Jung-gu, Incheon. It is approximately 1.5 kilometers from the Incheon Port International Passenger Terminal. Public transportation options include Incheon Subway Line 1 to Incheon Station, followed by a 10-minute walk. Several local bus routes also serve the area, with stops within 200 meters of the museum entrance. Limited street parking is available in the vicinity, though it is often occupied.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The building was constructed in 1905 by the Japanese colonial government to serve as the First Bank of Korea. Its purpose was to facilitate financial transactions and economic control during the period of Japanese occupation. The architectural style reflects the Western influences prevalent in early 20th-century Japanese colonial architecture.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exhibits focus on the architectural history of Incheon's open port area, showcasing original blueprints, photographs, and models of significant buildings. Visitors can explore the preserved interior spaces, including the former banking hall. Information panels detail the evolution of urban planning and architectural styles in the district.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the ground floor. Limited seating is provided within exhibition areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good within the building. No food vendors are located on-site, but several restaurants and cafes are present in the surrounding open port district.

Best Time to Visit

The museum is best visited during weekday mornings to avoid larger tour groups. Natural light is moderate, with artificial lighting used throughout the exhibition spaces. The surrounding open port area is most pleasant to explore in spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) due to milder temperatures.

Facts & Legends

A specific architectural detail to note is the original vault door, which remains intact and is a focal point of the ground floor exhibition. Local accounts suggest that during its operational years, the bank handled significant amounts of currency related to trade and colonial administration.

Nearby Landmarks

• Incheon China Town (0.8km Northwest)
• Jayu Park (1.2km West)
• Incheon Open Port Modern History Museum (0.3km South)
• Wolmido Island (2.5km Northeast)