Reimeikan Kagoshima Prefectural Museum
Explore Kagoshima's rich past, from ancient geology to the pivotal Meiji Restoration and vibrant folk traditions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Reimeikan Kagoshima Prefectural Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Kagoshima's rich past, from ancient geology to the pivotal Meiji Restoration and vibrant folk traditions.
"An excellent surprise, with detailed and beautifully presented contents that far exceeded initial expectations."
📸 Photography Allowed in Many Areas
Capture the exhibits! Many sections permit photos, so bring your camera or phone.
📶 Free WiFi Available
Stay connected while you explore. The museum offers complimentary Wi-Fi for visitors.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Meiji Restoration Exhibition
Second Floor
Objective and detailed presentation of Kagoshima's role in Japan's pivotal Meiji Restoration.
Folkloric Traditions
Second Floor
Discover traditional Satsuma life with unique exhibits like a mythical creature replica.
Tsurumaru Castle Site
Museum Grounds
Explore the historical grounds of the former Tsurumaru Castle, the museum's foundation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Immerse Yourself in Kagoshima's Past
Beyond the Exhibits: Castle Grounds & Cafe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photography Allowed in Many Areas
Capture the exhibits! Many sections permit photos, so bring your camera or phone.
📶 Free WiFi Available
Stay connected while you explore. The museum offers complimentary Wi-Fi for visitors.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least 1.5 hours to fully appreciate the historical depth and cultural displays.
☕ Relax at the Museum Cafe
Enjoy delicious cakes and a pleasant courtyard view. Staff are excellent!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photography Allowed in Many Areas
Capture the exhibits! Many sections permit photos, so bring your camera or phone.
📶 Free WiFi Available
Stay connected while you explore. The museum offers complimentary Wi-Fi for visitors.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least 1.5 hours to fully appreciate the historical depth and cultural displays.
☕ Relax at the Museum Cafe
Enjoy delicious cakes and a pleasant courtyard view. Staff are excellent!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Reimeikan Museum for its comprehensive and objectively presented historical exhibits, particularly its detailed coverage of the Meiji Restoration and fascinating insights into local folklore. The museum's location on the Tsurumaru Castle grounds and its welcoming staff are also highlighted as positives. Some visitors note that certain sections may lack English explanations, which could be a minor drawback for international tourists.
"Visited in mid-July 2025
The largest museum of Kagoshima, built on the former ground of the Tsurumaru Castle. Compared to thematic museums in the city such as the Ishin Furusato (Meiji Restoration) and Shuseikan (Sengan-en), it is more all-encompassing. Although of course there is more emphasis on the period just prior and during the Meiji Restoration, other eras are also well-represented - this includes the geological history and the advent of neolithic civilization in the Kinko Bay area. Another notable point is that the exposition on the Meiji Restoration is presented more carefully, objectively (although to some may feel a bit dry), and more or less free of jingoism compared to that in the Ishin Furusato museum.
The second floor section, although smaller, is no less interesting. This section is dedicated to folklores and the very traditional way of life of people inhabiting the Satsuma and Kinko Bay areas. One of the most interesting exhibition is the replica of mock mythical creature that is operated by multiple persons like lion dance, but in this case it is a mix of cow, tiger, and deer."
lontongstroong
"This museum was built on the site of Kagoshima Castle, and has held an exhibition by miniature photographer Tatsuya Tanaka since July 25, 2012. The fun of "looking" is irresistible, and is sure to bring a smile to your face after viewing."
44 G
"What an excellent surprise visiting this place was. The building itself seems austere and this trend continues inside. However the actual museum contents are so detailed and beautifully presented that it far exceeded my initial expectations. I cannot recommend it highly enough for the presentation of the historical significance of the region and for the very welcoming and helpful staff.
The cafe at the museum is also lovely, with a pleasant view of the courtyard and plenty of light. Staff there too are excellent and there are a small number of well-curated pieces on sale which you can peruse while you wait for your tea and cake. And do have the cakes, they are delicious."
B N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located in Kagoshima. It's accessible by public transport, with bus stops nearby. If driving, there is parking available, though it can be busy during peak times.
Yes, it's built on the former grounds of Tsurumaru Castle and is relatively close to other historical sites and museums in Kagoshima city, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum typically opens around 9:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM, but it's always best to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for special exhibitions.
General admission is reasonably priced. However, special exhibitions, like the Ukiyoe exhibition mentioned, might have a higher ticket price.
Yes, photography is allowed in many parts of the museum, which is great for visitors who want to document their experience. However, some special exhibitions might have restrictions.
While many exhibits are well-presented, some parts may lack English explanations, which could be a challenge for non-Japanese speakers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To fully appreciate the museum, dedicate at least 1.5 hours. Focus on the Meiji Restoration exhibits and the fascinating folklore section.
Yes, the museum features a replica of a mythical creature, a blend of cow, tiger, and deer, operated by multiple people, reminiscent of a lion dance.
The museum covers a broad spectrum, from Kagoshima's geological history and Neolithic civilization to the significant Meiji Restoration period and traditional folk life.
The museum is built on the former grounds of Tsurumaru Castle, a historically important site in Kagoshima. The gate has also been rebuilt and looks impressive.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there's a lovely cafe on-site with a pleasant view of the courtyard. They serve delicious cakes and tea, and the staff are very welcoming.
The cafe offers light refreshments, with a particular highlight being their delicious cakes. It's a great spot to relax and recharge.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, yes! Photography is permitted in many areas of the museum, allowing you to capture the historical displays and cultural artifacts.
While most areas allow photos, it's wise to look for signage indicating any restrictions, especially for temporary or special exhibitions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 History Buffs & Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Kagoshima's History
Beyond the grand historical narratives, the museum also dedicates a significant portion to the folk traditions and daily life of the people in the Satsuma and Kinko Bay regions. Here, you can encounter unique exhibits, such as a fascinating replica of a mythical creature that combines elements of a cow, tiger, and deer, operated by multiple performers in a style similar to a lion dance.
The museum's location on the former grounds of Tsurumaru Castle adds another layer of historical context. While the castle itself is largely gone, the site and the rebuilt gate offer a tangible connection to the region's feudal past. The building's austere exterior belies the rich and beautifully presented content within, making it a highly recommended visit for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture.
Experiencing the Museum's Amenities
For the modern visitor, the museum provides convenient amenities such as free Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected or research further into the exhibits you're viewing.
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