Chōshū Domain Shimonoseki Maeda Battery

The stone foundations and earthwork remains of the gun battery stand on elevated ground overlooking the strategic Kanmon Strait waterway connecting two major islands.

Constructed in 1863 during the late Edo period, this fortification faced bombardment by Western naval forces in 1864, leading to significant damage and eventual capture.

The battery represents the Choshu Domain's determination to protect Japanese sovereignty against foreign influence during the nation's transition from isolation to modernization.

Visitors can reach the battery site by taking a 4-minute walk from the Sanden Transportation Maeda bus stop, with detailed information available at the Shimonoseki City History Museum.

Archaeological excavations at the site uncovered British-drawn fortification plans and unexploded cannon balls that document the military confrontation between Japan and Western powers.

Location: Shimonoseki

GPS coordinates: 33.97369,130.97081

Latest update: May 23, 2025 14:37