[Toyohashi Archive] Renewal of approximately 1,551 valuable digital materials with enhanced search capabilities

Overview Toyohashi City has launched the first renewal of the 'Toyohashi Archive' (https://adeac.jp/toyohashi-city/top/), a database publishing approximately 1,551 digital materials, as of 12:00 PM on May 1, 2026.

In addition to the previous search method by 'holding institution,' it is now possible to search using five axes: 'Period,' 'Category,' 'Theme,' and 'Map,' making it easier to reach target materials.

Background and Purpose This archive digitizes and publishes local history materials from the Toyohashi City Library and historical/artistic artifacts from the Toyohashi City Art Museum. Since its launch on June 1, 2019, it has published 1,551 items in total as of the end of fiscal year 2025: 1,313 from the library, 144 from the Art Museum, 75 from the Cultural Property Center, and 19 from the Futagawa-juku Honjin Archives. The search functionality was upgraded to meet the needs of residents' research projects, historical studies, and media usage.

Key Improvements Based on feedback from users, the system has been revamped to allow for more precise access to desired information:

1. **Search by Period**: Enables pinpoint searches for materials from specific historical periods, such as the Sengoku or Edo periods. 2. **Search by Category**: Organizes information by frequently accessed categories such as historical documents, arts and crafts, and local publications. 3. **Search by Theme**: Highlights five key themes commonly researched: military, local figures, temples and shrines, Yoshida Castle/Yoshida-juku, and industry/commerce. 4. **Search by Map**: Divides the city into 52 school districts, allowing for intuitive searches for materials or artifacts related to one's own residential area.

Digital materials available for viewing are scheduled to be increased periodically.