Bank of Japan

The main branch of the Bank of Japan is the only central bank in the country, and here the regulation of currency and financing as well as the assignment of roles to stabilize the country's economy is carried out. One in a line of office buildings in Tokyo's Nihombashi, the main building of the Bank of Japan is a profound, conspicuous figure, the exterior made up of western-style stone and said to be designed using the National Bank of Belgium and the Bank of England as models. The bank is split into the main building, the old building, the new building, and the annex building. With advance reservations, visitors can participate in a tour with commentary of one part of the old building and new building as well as the courtyard of the main building, which has been designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. On the tours inside the Bank of Japan, participants will not only learn about the division of duties an the work done there, but they will also have the chance to take photos holding mock packs of 100 million yen and replicas of gold bars.
Even without a reservation, visitors can participate in a tour with commentary that will take them around the exterior of the main building; however, visitors without reservations will not be allowed inside the buildings. Those who want to see the interior as well must make a reservation on the official website at least seven days in advance of the day they plan to visit.

Photograph provided by Bank of Japan