Guide
The Emisugahana Shipyard Site, located in Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is the site of a shipyard established by the Choshu Clan during the late Edo period to construct Western-style sailing ships. In 2015, it was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site under the title 'Sites of Japan Industrial Revolution: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining.' This site is globally significant as a rare example where two different shipbuilding technologies—Russian and Dutch—coexisted in the same location, seen in the construction of the 'Heishin-maru' (Russian style) and the 'Kosin-maru' (Dutch style). Today, the surviving stone breakwaters serve as a powerful testament to the era of Japan's rapid modernization and technological transition.
In 1853, following the Shogunate's lifting of restrictions on large-scale ship construction, the Choshu Clan recognized the urgent need for naval strengthening. In 1855, the influential statesman Katsura Kogoro (later known as Kido Takayoshi) proposed the construction of warships, and by the following year, the clan leader Mori Takachika officially decided to build Western-style vessels. To master these new technologies, the clan dispatched craftsmen to Izudo Village. This led to the construction of the 'Heishin-maru' (25m long) using Russian techniques, followed by the 'Kosin-maru' (43m long) using Dutch-style techniques introduced via Nagasaki. The shipyard stands as a symbol of the technology transfer process during the dawn of Japan's modern industrial era.
The Emisugahana Shipyard Site is an open historical site, meaning you can visit at any time. Daytime visits are recommended to clearly observe the stone breakwaters and the surrounding scenery. If you wish to access detailed historical explanations or the VR experience, please visit during the hours when staff are present (9:00 AM to 5:00 PM). While it is accessible year-round, we recommend checking the weather and wind conditions beforehand, as the site is located right along the coast.
Beyond simply viewing the ruins, you can engage in a high-tech learning experience. By using the provided tablet PCs at the guide station, you can use VR to virtually experience the lost shipbuilding techniques and the sight of the ships themselves. This provides a multi-dimensional understanding of the technology that shaped Japan's history.
The area around the shipyard is dotted with other important cultural assets of Hagi. The nearby 'Hagi Blast Furnace' allows you to learn about iron smelting technology. You can also use the 'Hagi Jukan Maar Bus' to access the Yoshika Ohirume Memorial Museum and the beautifully preserved historic streets of Hagi. Exploring these spots together provides a deep understanding of the connection between iron and shipbuilding during the Meiji-era Industrial Revolution.
While the use of the facility (such as VR rentals) is free, please carry cash or a credit card/transport IC card for nearby transportation and food/beverage expenses.
While the guide station provides information regarding the World Heritage site, for detailed English explanations, it is recommended to use the tablet-based visual information or check official resources beforehand.
No advance reservation is required; the site is open for free-form exploration. However, if you wish to experience the VR content or detailed guidance, please visit during the staffed hours (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM).
As the site is located in an open coastal area, please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. If you plan to use the VR experience, being familiar with tablet operations will make the process smoother.
Photography of the historical site is permitted, but please be respectful of other visitors.
Because the site preserves its original historical topography, there are some uneven surfaces and steps near the stone breakwaters.
As this is a component of a UNESCO World Heritage site, please follow proper etiquette and do not damage the ruins or move any signs or equipment.