🗺️ Shiroyama Observatory城山

From the Shiroyama Observation Deck, which is about 107 meters above sea level, one can enjoy a distant view of Kagoshima City, Kinko Bay, and Sakurajima. The surrounding area retains traces of Saigo Takamori, a samurai, military leader, and politician from the late Edo period. It was the site of the last fierce battles of the Satsuma Rebellion and is an indispensable location when discussing the history of Kagoshima. It also features the "Statue of Saigo Takamori" and the Saigo Army Headquarters, as well as historical sites such as the "Saigo Cave," where Saigo stayed five days before his suicide, and the "Place of Saigo Takamori's Death." Surrounded by a moat, the "Kagoshima Prefectural Museum of History and Art, Reimeikan" is the site of the early Shimazu clan's castle ruins. The front courtyard displays a photo of Tokugawa Iesada's consort, Atsuhime, from the 13th shogunate. Inside, it showcases the history, folklore, art, and crafts of Kagoshima, along with materials related to the late Edo period and the Meiji Restoration. In 2020, the Otemon Gate of Kagoshima (Tsurumaru) Castle was rebuilt after 147 years.

From the observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kinko Bay and Sakurajima. You can take a commemorative photo with the statue of Saigo Takamori. There are many attractions worth seeing, such as the Saigo Cave, Terukuni Shrine, and the main gate of Kagoshima (Tsurumaru) Castle.