Nagasaki City Takashima Coal Museum

Overview

The Nagasaki City Takashima Coal Museum serves as a crucial hub for unraveling the history of the Takashima Coal Mine, a constituent asset of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site 'Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution.' Coal mining on Takashima began in the 18th century, and after Japan opened its ports in the late Edo period, Thomas Blake Glover, a Scottish merchant, and the Saga Domain jointly embarked on its development. They established the Hokkei Pit, Japan's first Western-style vertical shaft powered by a steam engine, laying the foundation for modern coal mining in Japan. Subsequently, after being managed by Shojiro Goto, the mine was taken over by the Mitsubishi Zaibatsu, led by Yataro Iwasaki. The Takashima Coal Mine then became a vital producer of 'black diamonds,' supporting Japanese industry and flourishing to the extent that its population exceeded 18,000 at its peak. However, due to the energy revolution, it closed in 1986. The museum exhibits the grand history of the Takashima Coal Mine, from its nascent stages to its closure, through mining tools, photographs, and materials depicting daily life at the time. Furthermore, the museum provides a detailed explanation of the history of Hashima Coal Mine, also known as 'Battleship Island' (Gunkanjima), where the mining technology from Takashima spread and developed. Visitors can discover how Hashima transformed into a formidable sea fortress, learn about the astonishing lifestyle where its population density reached nine times that of Tokyo at its peak, and understand the story leading up to its closure. Alongside viewing the Hokkei Pit remains on Takashima and numerous related structures on Hashima, visitors can profoundly experience the endeavors of the people who supported Japan's modernization and the sheer energy of the coal industry through these exhibits. A visit before a Gunkanjima cruise will undoubtedly amplify the emotional impact multifold. Moreover, as admission to this museum is free, it offers a great appeal for anyone to easily delve into the depths of history.