Miyakonojo Shimazu Residence

The Shimazu family controlled Satsuma province for centuries and remained one of the most powerful clans in the region. Miyakonojo was a district that belonged to Satsuma, and was directly ruled by the Shimazu family. The Miyakonojo Shimazu Residence was built in 1879 by the then Miyakonojo Shimazu family head, Shimazu Hisahiro, when he returned from Kagoshima (previously Satsuma) where he had previously moved. Having undergone a number of expansions and renovations since then, the residential building and related facilities were registered as a Tangible Cultural Property in 2008. The residence was honored by providing accommodation for Emperor Showa in 1973. A museum has been set up on the premises to maintain and exhibit historical materials, including household equipment and furniture used by the pre-war noble family.