Zōzan Memorial Hall

The Zōzan Memorial Hall is a museum in Matsushiro dedicated to Sakuma Zozan, a 19th-century scholar. It displays his personal items, written notes, and instruments that he used during his research and experiments.

Sakuma Zozan was a major figure who brought Western technologies to Japan in the 19th century before his death in 1864. The museum was founded in 1965 to preserve his contributions to the nation's modernization.

The place reflects how Western knowledge and Japanese traditions coexisted during the late Tokugawa period. You can observe the efforts of scholars to bring new ideas into their society through the objects on display.

The museum is located in Matsushiro with limited parking nearby, so arriving early helps secure a spot. Plan your visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the displays without feeling rushed.

The museum preserves original telegraph equipment that Sakuma Zozan used while experimenting with Western communication technologies. These artifacts show his hands-on approach to understanding new inventions.

Location: Nagano

Official opening: 1965

Website: https://sanadahoumotsukan.com/facility_detail.php?n=5

GPS coordinates: 36.55906,138.19772

Latest update: December 14, 2025 15:02