Saigō Nanshū Memorial Museum

The Saigō Nanshū Memorial Museum is a biographical museum in Kamitatsuo-chō that documents the life of Saigō Takamori, a major figure in 19th-century Japanese change. It houses photographs, artifacts, and displays that reveal his career and influence on his era.

Saigō Takamori played a central role in reshaping Japan in the second half of the 19th century as the nation transformed its traditional structure. The museum opened in 1978 to mark 100 years since his death and honor his legacy.

The museum displays how Saigō pursued Zen study and embodied the strict discipline of Satsuma's warrior training. Dioramas show the practices and values that defined his personal path and influenced those around him.

The museum spreads across two floors with displays and a separate annex holding a large book collection. Parking space for many vehicles makes visiting convenient, especially for groups or families arriving by car.

One special highlight is a replica of a prison cell where Saigō spent time during his exile. The reconstruction gives visitors a direct impression of the difficult conditions he faced.

Location: Kamitatsuo-chō

Inception: July 1978

Official opening: July 1978

Address: 鹿児島県鹿児島市上竜尾町2-1

Phone: +81992471100

Website: http://saigou.jp

GPS coordinates: 31.60590,130.55824

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:26