Shoko Shuseikan Museum, Satsuma Travel Guide

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Explore Japan's industrial revolution origins at Shoko Shuseikan Museum, housed in the nation's oldest stone factory, showcasing the Shimadzu clan's legacy.

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Shoko Shuseikan Museum

Housed in Japan's oldest Western-style stone factory, the Shoko Shuseikan Museum showcases the 800-year history of the Shimadzu clan and their pivotal role in Japan's industrial revolution. Exhibits include historical artifacts, machinery, and Satsuma cut glass, offering a glimpse into the nation's modernization.

A brief summary to Shoko Shuseikan Museum

9698-1 Yoshino-chō, Kagoshima, Yoshino-chō, Kagoshima, 892-0871, JP
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Shoko Shuseikan Museum.

Allow ample time to explore both the museum and the adjacent Sengan-en garden for a comprehensive understanding of the Shimadzu clan's history.
Visit the Shimazu Satsuma Kiriko Glassworks near the museum to witness the production of Satsuma Kiriko cut glass.
Check the museum's website for information on special exhibitions and events.

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Explore Shoko Shuseikan Museum on the Map

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Kagoshima Chuo Station, take the Kagoshima City View bus or a local bus to the Sengan-en Mae bus stop. The Kagoshima City View bus departs approximately every 30 minutes, and the ride takes about 20 minutes. The fare is around ¥180.
Car

From Kagoshima Chuo Station, it's approximately a 20-minute drive to the Shoko Shuseikan Museum. Paid parking is available near the museum for around ¥300. From the Sakurajima Ferry Terminal, the museum is about a 10-minute drive.
Walking

From JR Sengan-en Mae Station, the Shoko Shuseikan Museum is approximately a 3-minute walk. Follow the signs towards Sengan-en garden; the museum is located adjacent to the garden.

Discover more about Shoko Shuseikan Museum

The Shoko Shuseikan Museum, located in Kagoshima, is a window into Japan's rapid modernization during the Meiji period. The museum itself is housed within the oldest Western-style stone factory building in Japan, dating back to 1865. This building was originally constructed to process metal for ships as part of the Shuseikan Project, Japan's first modern factory complex spearheaded by the visionary Shimadzu Nariakira.The museum's exhibits detail the 800-year history of the Shimadzu clan, powerful feudal lords who ruled the Satsuma domain. Visitors can explore displays of historical records, artifacts, and machinery that illustrate the clan's influence and their contributions to trade, culture, and industrial development. Of particular note are the displays related to Satsuma cut glass, a unique glass manufacturing process created by Nariakira. The museum also features some of the oldest daguerreotype photographs taken by Japanese people.The Shoko Shuseikan Museum is part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, "Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining". This designation recognizes the area's significant contribution to Japan's industrial advancement. Adjacent to the museum is Sengan-en, the traditional Japanese garden and former villa of the Shimadzu family, offering a contrasting view of the clan's rich history and culture.