
Meiji Restoration Museum
Discover Kagoshima's pivotal role in Japan's Meiji Restoration through engaging exhibits and films. A journey into samurai spirit and modernization.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Meiji Restoration Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Kagoshima's pivotal role in Japan's Meiji Restoration through engaging exhibits and films. A journey into samurai spirit and modernization.
"A well-presented museum for those interested in learning about this in former Satsuma."

Audio Guides Available
Multilingual audio guides are available for the films and some exhibits. Ask staff for assistance. :microphone:
Combine with Sengan-en
Sengan-en garden is a short walk away and offers a glimpse into the life of the Shimazu clan. :walking:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Exhibits
Main Exhibition Hall
Engage with artifacts and detailed displays that bring the Meiji Restoration to life. A fun and educational experience for all ages.

Short Films on Satsuma's Role
Screening Room
Watch captivating films detailing the Satsuma region's crucial contributions to the Meiji Restoration. Available with multilingual audio.

Riverside Location
Kotsukigawa Riverside
Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the scenic Kotsukigawa riverside after your museum visit. Offers beautiful views and fresh air.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the Meiji Restoration
Combine with Nearby Historical Sites
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Audio Guides Available
Multilingual audio guides are available for the films and some exhibits. Ask staff for assistance.
:microphone:Combine with Sengan-en
Sengan-en garden is a short walk away and offers a glimpse into the life of the Shimazu clan.
:walking:Family-Friendly Fun
Interactive displays and playful zones make it engaging for children.
:child:Accessible Location
Easy to reach from Kagoshima-Chuo Station by foot or tram.
:bus:Tips
from all over the internet
Audio Guides Available
Multilingual audio guides are available for the films and some exhibits. Ask staff for assistance.
:microphone:Combine with Sengan-en
Sengan-en garden is a short walk away and offers a glimpse into the life of the Shimazu clan.
:walking:Family-Friendly Fun
Interactive displays and playful zones make it engaging for children.
:child:Accessible Location
Easy to reach from Kagoshima-Chuo Station by foot or tram.
:bus:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Meiji Restoration Museum for its informative and interactive exhibits, particularly highlighting the Satsuma domain's role in this pivotal era. The museum's riverside location and family-friendly features are also frequently mentioned positives. Some found the films a bit nationalistic, but overall, it's considered a valuable and well-presented historical experience.
"Visited in mid-July 2025
Came during a short period where the admission was free of charge. It's not only informative but also interactive experience, showcasing a lot of artifacts (or re-creation thereof) and detailed information as backdrops or contexts of the time in which the Meiji Restoration happened. It amazed me that at one time of the history, Satsuma region had leaders and elites who were the most forward-thinking throughout Japan, particularly Shimazu Nariakira and his peers.
At certain times of the day, the museum screens short movies on the Satsuma domain's pivotal role on the Meiji Restoration. During my visit, they screened the one with the first wave of young Satsuma scholars in the 1860s who were sent to the UK to study all matters related to the industrialization and modern, more forward thinking society. The movie was a bit too tacky, jingoistic, and nationalistic, but it was pretty mind-opening once one can get past through such delivery.
For history buffs who are visiting or planning to be in Kagoshima, the experience is best paired with other visits to Sengan-en (former proto-industrial zone established by the Satsuma Domain) and Reimeikan (broader, more all-encompassing history and culture of Satsuma)."
lontongstroong
"Ishin Furusato-kan
Tucked along the scenic Kotsukigawa riverside, the Ishin Furusato-kan is a fascinating stop for anyone curious about Kagoshima’s history and surprisingly fun for families, too! The museum offers a great balance of immersive exhibits and interactive displays, with some areas especially designed for children to explore and enjoy. Whether it’s hands-on learning or playful zones, younger visitors won’t feel left out.
The riverside location adds a lot to the experience. After exploring the museum indoors, you can take a relaxing stroll outside along the beautifully maintained riverside path—perfect for stretching your legs, enjoying the view of Sakurajima, or just soaking up some fresh air.
Admission:
• Adults: ¥300
• Children: ¥150
• Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on certain holidays)
Getting there:
It’s just a 10-minute walk from Kagoshima-Chūō Station, or a short ride on the city tram (get off at Asahidori stop). The museum is very accessible and located right by the river, making it easy to combine with a visit to the nearby historical walking paths.
Whether you’re into samurai tales or simply want a peaceful riverside stop with both indoor and outdoor appeal, this spot is definitely worth a visit."
Bel Zi
"「為了國家/自己理想,你可以去到幾盡?」 : my beloved quote from one HK movie, unexpectedly to refresh this wording during my visit and check out the close relationship between Hong Kong when the first student delegation travelling to UK from 薩摩 province and passed by Hong Kong.
This visit is the most valuable part in my trip! Learning the path leading to Meiji revolution is to learn the precious Japanese samurai and global citizens’ sprit (when you got defeated , u need to learn the winner’s strength, not only complain and blame yourselves!) It is not to enhance the hate and conflict after the war.
Highly recommend to see its animations about the hero and how they sent the young samurai to UK when Japan was under the risk. There are English/ Mandarin audio provided,please ask the staffs as necessary."
Waha Fung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located and easily accessible. It's a 10-minute walk from Kagoshima-Chuo Station, or you can take the city tram and alight at the Asahidori stop. It's situated right by the Kotsukigawa riverside.
While specific parking details aren't widely advertised, the museum's proximity to public transport makes it easy to visit without a car. Consider using the tram or train to reach the area.
Absolutely! Many visitors pair their museum visit with Sengan-en, a former estate of the Shimazu clan, and Reimeikan, which offers a broader history of Kagoshima.
Yes, if you're in Kagoshima for a day trip, the museum is a central attraction that can be easily incorporated into your itinerary, especially given its accessibility.
The city tram system is very efficient for getting around Kagoshima and reaching the museum. Walking from Kagoshima-Chuo Station is also a pleasant option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission for adults is ¥300, and for children, it's ¥150. There are occasional free admission periods, so it's worth checking in advance.
The museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is closed on certain holidays, so it's advisable to confirm before your visit.
Advance booking is generally not required for the Meiji Restoration Museum. Tickets can be purchased upon arrival.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, the admission fees are quite reasonable. Keep an eye out for any special promotions or free entry days.
The museum is generally well-maintained and accessible. The riverside path is also pleasant for a stroll. Inquire directly for specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You'll find informative exhibits on the Meiji Restoration, including artifacts, detailed historical context, and short films about the Satsuma domain's role.
While most of the main text is in Japanese, several photos and displays have English captions or summaries. The films offer multilingual audio options.
Yes, the museum has interactive displays and playful zones specifically designed for children, making it a fun experience for families.
A visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in the historical details and whether you watch the full films.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with the museum staff upon arrival regarding restrictions on taking photos, especially with flash.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself may not have extensive dining facilities, Kagoshima city offers numerous excellent restaurants. You can find fantastic ramen nearby, as mentioned by visitors.
Kagoshima is known for its delicious ramen, fresh seafood, and local specialties like Kurobuta (black pork).
Typically, food and drinks are not allowed in exhibition areas of museums. It's best to consume them outside or at designated areas if available.
While traditional Japanese cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants in larger cities like Kagoshima are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff.
Kagoshima has a growing cafe culture. You might find local cafes offering excellent coffee or traditional Japanese tea, including matcha.
📸 📸 Photography
The museum's exhibits themselves can be visually interesting. The riverside location also offers scenic views, especially with Sakurajima in the background.
Photography rules can vary. Some museums allow non-flash photography of exhibits, while others may restrict it. Always check signage or ask staff.
The exterior of the museum, especially its riverside setting, provides a pleasant backdrop. Inside, focus on capturing the essence of the historical displays.
The Kotsukigawa riverside offers lovely photo opportunities. If you can see Sakurajima volcano from the area, that's also a classic Kagoshima shot.
While the primary focus is history, the museum's presentation and the scenic riverside location can still offer interesting photographic subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents can rest assured that the exhibits are designed to be accessible and interesting for various age groups. The short films, often with multilingual audio, can also capture the attention of younger viewers. It's a fantastic way to introduce children to Japan's rich past in a fun and accessible manner.
📚 History Buffs
Pairing your visit with Sengan-en and Reimeikan will provide an even more comprehensive understanding of Kagoshima's historical significance. The museum's well-presented exhibits and informative films, often with English audio, cater well to international history enthusiasts.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Take advantage of the multilingual audio for the films to fully grasp the narratives. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful walk along the Kotsukigawa riverside or explore nearby historical sites like Sengan-en at your own pace.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Meiji Restoration: A Turning Point
The museum delves into the key figures, political machinations, and societal changes that defined this era. You'll learn about the samurai spirit, the drive for industrialization, and the diplomatic missions sent abroad to learn from Western powers. Understanding this period is key to grasping Japan's trajectory in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Visitors often find the museum's focus on the Satsuma domain's pivotal role particularly enlightening. The exhibits highlight how leaders like Shimazu Nariakira envisioned a stronger, more modern Japan, even sending young scholars to the UK to study industrial and societal advancements. This forward-thinking approach was instrumental in the success of the Restoration.
Experiencing Kagoshima's History
For a more immersive historical experience, consider visiting Sengan-en, the former villa of the Shimazu clan. This beautiful garden and traditional Japanese estate provides a tangible connection to the era and the powerful family that shaped Kagoshima's destiny. It's often cited as a must-visit alongside the museum for a complete picture of the region's past.
Another excellent companion site is Reimeikan, the Kagoshima Prefectural Center for Historical Material. This museum offers a broader overview of Kagoshima's history and culture, providing context that enriches the specific focus of the Meiji Restoration Museum. Together, these sites offer a comprehensive journey through Kagoshima's significant historical contributions.
Family Fun and Interactive Learning
Parents often appreciate the balance between informative content and engaging activities. While adults can delve into the detailed historical context, children can enjoy the tactile elements and visually stimulating displays. This makes it an ideal destination for families traveling together, ensuring everyone finds something to enjoy and learn from.
The museum's location by the Kotsukigawa riverside also adds to the family appeal. After an indoor exploration, the outdoor space provides a great opportunity for kids to run around and enjoy the fresh air, making for a well-rounded outing.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit