Mikasa Photo Shop
OPEN FOR PUBLIC. SOME AREAS MAY BE PROHIBITED.
CHARGES MAY APPLY FOR SOME AREAS OR ACTIVITIES.
A heritage site that captures both the artistic and clandestine narratives of early 20th-century Malaya. Located at 93-95 Jalan Sultan Yusof (formerly Belfield Street), this building once housed one of Ipoh's pioneering Japanese photography studios, established in 1911. The studio's glass-paned façade, a relic of its photographic past, still stands as a testament to its enduring presence.
Beyond its role in photography, Mikasa Photo Shop harbors a more enigmatic past. During the prelude to World War II, the studio was operated by Masaji Fukabori, a Japanese national who used his position to gather intelligence for the Japanese military. This dual identity of the studio—as both a center for portraiture and a hub for espionage - adds a layer of intrigue to its historical significance.
Today, the legacy of Mikasa Photo Shop is preserved and interpreted at the Made In Ipoh gallery-museum. Visitors can engage with immersive exhibits, including a 3D installation depicting Fukabori behind his camera, offering a tangible connection to the studio's complex history. This interactive experience allows guests to step into the frame, bridging the gap between past and present.
Situated amidst other historical landmarks such as the Birch Memorial Clock Tower and the Sultan Idris Shah II Mosque, Mikasa Photo Shop is an integral part of Ipoh's rich cultural tapestry. Its story, interwoven with themes of art, identity and wartime subterfuge, offers a unique lens through which to explore the city's multifaceted heritage.
For those interested in delving deeper into this captivating narrative, a visit to the Made In Ipoh gallery-museum is highly recommended. Here, the echoes of Mikasa Photo Shop's past are brought to life, inviting reflection on the intricate interplay of history, culture and memory.
