Terayama Charcoal Kiln Ruins

Overview

The Terayama Charcoal Kiln Ruins are located in Yoshino-cho, Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture. These are the remains of a charcoal kiln built during the Meiji era by Shimazu Nariakira, the lord of the Satsuma Domain, to produce charcoal fuel for the Seigankan Project. The Seigankan Project was a major undertaking where the Satsuma Domain introduced Western technology to advance modernization, and the Terayama Charcoal Kiln Ruins were a crucial facility supporting this endeavor. The charcoal kiln was a large circular stone structure, approximately 3 meters high and 6 meters in diameter, large enough for a person to stand inside. It was built using cutting-edge technology for its time. The Satsuma Domain used the charcoal produced here to manufacture iron, glass, ceramics, and other products, driving modernization. However, heavy rain in July 2019 caused the collapse of the stonework, and a landslide further buried most of the kiln, including the walkway. It is currently under reconstruction and covered with sheeting, making it inaccessible to visitors. Restoration work is being carefully carried out to preserve its World Heritage value and to pass on this precious historical legacy to future generations. The Terayama Charcoal Kiln Ruins are a historical heritage site symbolizing Japan's modernization in the Meiji era, and its historical significance is extremely high. We hope that the restoration work will be completed soon, and we can once again see its appearance. The surrounding area has been cleared of trees, making it brighter. A nearby waterfall is now also easily visible. Why not take this opportunity to enjoy the surrounding nature?