
After the video, the exhibition proceeds through displays divided into nine major topics related to Eiichi. The interpretive panels include text and images and the display cases contain artifacts and documents such as letters and manuscripts. To view the exhibits chronologically start with "Hometown" and continue counterclockwise all the way to "Life of Ninety-one Years Comes to a Close."
1. Hometown
The first 23 years of Eiichi's life are outlined in this section, including his involvement in the family business, his childhood studies, and his participation in the sonno-joi (revere the emperor, expel the foreigners) movement.
2. Retainer of the Hitotsubashi Family
This section describes Eiichi's responsibilities as a retainer of the Hitotsubashi family, in particular his visit to Paris and other parts of Europe as a member of the delegation to the Paris Universal Exposition. The beginnings of the Shoho Kaisho, a small trading and finance company he founded in Shizuoka after returning to Japan, are also described.
3. Member of the Meiji Government
Eiichi's positions in the early Meiji government and the establishment of the reform bureau are shown here, showcasing Eiichi's early accomplishments.
4. Contributions to the Building of Japan's Economy
This section demonstrates the breadth of Eiichi's achievements, outlining his establishment of the Dai-Ichi Kokuritsu Ginko (First National Bank) and looking at the myriad of other companies he founded or assisted. Also discussed is his commitment to harmony between "the Analects and the abacus," that is, morality and business.
5. Private-sector Diplomacy
Eiichi's activities to promote friendly relations between Japan and the United States and his role as a pioneer in the field of private-sector diplomacy are shown here. A radio address, preaching the spirit of the League of Nations, given by Shibusawa Eiichi at the age of 88 can be listened to in this section.
6. Promotion of Social Welfare and Education
Some of Eiichi's many activities in the field of social welfare and education are showcased here including his long directorship of the Tokyo Yoiku-in, a welfare institution for orphans, elderly, and people with disabilities; his involvement in business education and education for women; his role in the Chamber of Tokyo and the improvement of social conditions in the city; and his views on the relationship between labor and management, especially in connection with the Cooperation Society.
7. Family
This section introduces Eiichi's children and grandchildren as well as the Shibusawa Family Company.
8. Broad Circle of Acquaintances
Eiichi's wide network of acquaintances is evident from the many letters displayed in this section from famous people of various walks of life. Items on display are changed periodically.
9. Life of Ninety-one Years Comes to a Close
This last section rounds out Eiichi's life with a look at the memorial services held in his honor. |