Guide
Kirishima International Music Hall (also known as Miyama Console) is a premier concert hall located in Kirishima City, Kagoshima Prefecture. This venue is celebrated by the International Congress on Acoustics as a 'Miracle Hall' due to its extraordinary acoustic design. Spanning an area of approximately 55,366 square meters, the facility offers a dignified atmosphere that harmonizes perfectly with the surrounding natural environment. It serves as a major cultural hub in Japan, frequently hosting high-caliber classical music performances that earn acclaim from top-tier musicians from both Japan and abroad.
Opened on July 22, 1994, the hall was constructed primarily to serve as the main venue for the Kirishima International Music Festival. The acoustic design was overseen by the renowned architect Shichi Ando, ensuring that beautiful, uniform sound reaches every single seat through meticulous calculation. Its superior acoustic properties have earned numerous accolades, including the BCS Award and recognition in the '100 Best Public Buildings' and '100 Excellent Halls' lists, cementing its architectural and cultural significance. For decades, it has played a vital role in broadcasting culture through music alongside the rich natural beauty of Kirima.
The greatest draw of this hall is, undoubtedly, its 'acoustics.' The main hall achieves an ideal reverberation time (approximately 1.6 to 1.8 seconds), where the nuances of volume and sound reflection are precisely controlled. The architecture utilizes a 'shoebox' style with leaf-shaped side walls and a hull-shaped ceiling, designed to allow sound to resonate richly in all directions. Beyond the music, the surrounding scenic landscapes provide a holistic artistic experience that engages all the senses.
The hall hosts various music festivals and concerts throughout the year. The most significant season is during the Kirishima International Music Festival, when world-renowned performers gather, making it a must-visit time for classical music enthusiasts. During the daytime, you can enjoy a relaxing pace of life while feeling the presence of nature around the hall. During evening performances, the lighting design creates a more mystical and sophisticated atmosphere, allowing you to become deeply immersed in the world of music.
Visitors can enjoy authentic classical music performances within a world-class acoustic environment. The main hall features 518 seats on the first floor and 252 seats on the second floor, offering different auditory and visual perspectives depending on your seat selection. The facility also includes rehearsal rooms, practice rooms, and a small hall, serving as a multi-faceted center for musical creation, practice, and presentation.
The area surrounding the hall is enveloped by the abundant nature of Kirishima. Before or after a concert, you can stroll through nearby scenic spots or engage with local culture. Kirishima is also famous for its hot springs (onsen). Many travelers visit during the music festival period to combine a luxury music experience with a relaxing hot spring stay.
When attending a concert, please be mindful of other audience members. Basic etiquette, such keeping mobile phones on silent mode or turned off and maintaining silence during performances, is strictly required. While there is no formal dress code, smart casual attire is recommended to suit the prestigious atmosphere. Food and drinks are generally prohibited inside the hall, except in designated areas. It is highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance through official websites or major ticketing agencies (such as Lawson Ticket, Ticket Pia, or eplus).