Foundations of the Meiji Restoration and Cultural Heritage at Sengan-en
Sengan-en is a stately home and gardens built in 1658 by Shimadzu Mitsuhisa. The landscape that has captivated not only Shimadzu Nariakira, a wise ruler, but also Princess Tenshoin Atsuhime and others whose names can be found in Japanese history.
In addition, the garden, where you can feel the change of seasons, hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Among them are the “Nagashibina”, which is held in spring to pray for a year of perfect health, the “Kyokusui-no-en”, where waka poems (traditional Japanese poem of thirty-one syllables) are performed, and the Chrysanthemum Festival, where Sengan-en Garden is filled with about 15,000 chrysanthemums in autumn, which attracts many visitors from across the prefecture and beyond.
Take a stroll around the house and explore the rooms lived in by the Shimadzu Family. Enjoy the private view over the gardens, Kinko Bay, and active volcano Sakurajima. Learn about the lifestyle of Prince Shimadzu Tadayoshi and see how distinguished guests from both Japan and overseas were welcomed at Sengan-en by the Shimadzu family.
In the experience facility inside the park, visitors can experience 13 programs in which they can enjoy the traditional culture of Satsuma, including cutting Satsuma Kiriko crystal glass and wearing armor that has been recreated from the collection of the Shimadzu family. There are also a few other that are easy to join regardless of age, all of which can be experienced on the day without a reservation.
*Dressing/fitting experience and Kiriko cutting experience can be reserved in advance from the official website
In addition to armour, traditional samurai clothing and Oshima tsumugi weave (type of pongee) are prepared
Accessories made from Satsuma Kiriko Crystal (sparkling pieces of crystal glass)
Authentic Satsuma Ware pottery with original painting
Experience the bow and arrow that Sengoku Warlords are said to have used to entertain a banquet
SENGAN-EN
099-247-1551
Address：9700-1 Yoshino-cho, Kagoshima City
Access：From Kagoshima Chuo Station, get off at Sengan-en Mae bus stop by Kagoshima City View Bus / From Kagoshima Chuo Station, take the JR Nippo Main Line and get off at Sengan-en Station, about 10 minutes (scheduled to open in March 2025)
Opening hours：9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Entrance fee：Admission fees for Sengan-en, Shoko Shuseikan and The House / General (15 years old and over, excluding junior and senior high school students) 1,600 yen, Elementary, middle and high school students 800 yen
Closing dates : The first Sunday in March
WEBSITE : https://www.senganen.jp/