Visiting Kagoshima, Land of Saigō Takamori

The monument marking the birthplace of Saigō Takamori.

The entrance to the Museum of the Meiji Restoration.

The museum includes an area where kids and adults alike can experience the pastimes Saigō enjoyed in his childhood and youth.

The section of the museum presenting the history and achievements of the great historical leaders of the Meiji Restoration.

Realistic robots depict historical figures of the Meiji Restoration in the museum’s diorama.

The view from Shiroyama takes in the city, Kagoshima Bay, and the Sakurajima volcano in the distance.

Lush trees and a stone fence surround the Saigō Takamori Cave.

A statue of Saigō stands at the base of Shiroyama, accompanied by a small dog built to resemble his beloved pet.

Entrance to the Saigō Nanshū Memorial Museum.

Upon entering the museum, visitors immediately encounter a portrait of Saigō.

Saigō’s calligraphy of his favorite motto: keiten aijin (“respect heaven, love people”).

The collection at the Saigō Nanshū Memorial Museum includes rare items like cloak that Saigō wore while serving as a general in the Imperial Army.

The historical materials on display include weapons used by the rebel forces and the Imperial Army during the Satsuma Rebellion.

Sakurajima rises up in the background behind the Nanshū Cemetery.

Saigō’s tomb in the center of the Nanshū Cemetery.