Saga Castle Honmaru History Museum: Restored Palace to Learn the History of the Saga Domain in the Bakumatsu Period

Saga Castle Honmaru History Museum: A Facility to Learn About Nabeshima Naomasa's Reforms

"Saga Castle Honmaru History Museum" standing on the main enclosure ruins of Saga Castle in Saga City, Saga Prefecture, is a history museum that restored the 1838 main enclosure palace in 2004. The history of modernization policies and military reforms decisively implemented by 10th domain lord Nabeshima Naomasa (1815–1871) in the Bakumatsu period, and the role of Saga domain in the Meiji Restoration, are displayed in an easy-to-understand manner.

Saga Domain in Bakumatsu and Modernization

Saga domain was an advanced domain that manufactured Japan's first "reverberatory furnace," "steam locomotive," and "domestic iron cannons" in the Bakumatsu period. Under Nabeshima Naomasa's leadership, rapid modernization progressed in the fields of "science, manufacturing, and medicine," with many talented individuals contributing to modern Japan's construction after the Meiji Restoration.

Restoration of Main Enclosure Palace

The restored main enclosure palace recreates tatami-floored large halls, corridors, and kitchens, allowing experience of the Edo period domain's government office atmosphere. The large-scale restoration building of approximately 2,500 square meters of floor area is a must-see.

Saga Castle Park

"Saga Castle Park" spreads around the main history museum, with seasonal flowers including spring cherry blossoms and autumn foliage enjoyable. Castle remains from that era including the Shachi Gate (Important Cultural Property) also remain.

Access

Approximately 15 minutes by bus from JR "Saga Station," or approximately 25 minutes on foot. Free admission allows casual visits.