Guide
Toyo Sekishokan is located in Toyo-cho, Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture. It was established to preserve and pass down the region's unique stone culture to future generations. This area has a rich history shaped by large-scale land reclamation projects starting from the Edo period. The stone-working techniques and civil engineering skills developed during this process are vital cultural assets. The facility serves as a center for collecting, preserving, and exhibiting materials related to this stone culture, providing a deep understanding of the local historical background.
The Toyo area of Yatsushiro has a history of large-scale land reclamation projects spanning from the Edo period to the Meiji era. These projects utilized local resources, such as fertile silt brought by the Kuma River and naturally exposed limestone. Developing new land required advanced civil engineering, including the construction of robust embankments to prevent seawater intrusion and "Himon" (sluice gates) for water management. The stone-working techniques rooted in this land were essential to these constructions. The Sekishokan plays a crucial role in preserving the history of this stone culture through its various exhibits.
The museum displays various actual materials, specimens, charts, and photographs related to stone culture. Through these historical records, visitors can learn about the significance of the land reclamation projects and the civil engineering techniques that utilized stone. The collection also includes materials regarding local historical assets such as stone bridges and traditional stone structures.
It is best to visit Toyo Sekishokan during daylight hours. The facility is open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). To experience the culture more deeply, we recommend timing your visit with local events or guided tours. Specifically, visiting on days when the junior high school volunteer guides are active allows for a much more intimate and engaging connection with the local history.
On the second Sunday of every month, the "Japan Heritage Stone Bridge Guide" program is held. This program features students from Toyo Junior High School, who guide visitors through local Japan Heritage sites, such as traditional stone bridges and "Hineri" lanterns. Participants walk a roughly 1.2km course (approx. 50 minutes) while learning about the area's history. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience a living, breathing version of local culture that goes beyond what can be learned from textbooks or static displays.
Several historical spots that symbolize the region's heritage are scattered around the museum. Notable sites include the "Ozasaya Himon Group," which showcases stone-working techniques, and "Ishibashi Park," famous for its beautiful stone masonry. Additionally, near the "Michi-no-Eki Toyo" (Roadside Station), you can enjoy local hot springs and restaurants at the Toyo Koryu Center Seseragi. After learning about history, you can relax and enjoy the local scenery and facilities.
Admission fees for the exhibition rooms are primarily accepted in cash. Please check in advance if you wish to use credit cards or electronic money.
English-speaking staff or English-language guidance is not always guaranteed. We recommend checking details regarding specific programs in advance.
If you wish to participate in the junior high school volunteer guide program, advance reservation is mandatory. Please contact the Toyo Machidukuri Council (Phone: 096-5-65-2210) by the Friday of the week before the scheduled date.
If you are participating in the walking guide tour, please wear comfortable walking shoes and practical clothing. Please note that guided tours may be canceled in the event of rain.
For academic research or photography of exhibits, prior application and permission from the Mayor are required. For general visitors, please be respectful of the exhibits and other visitors.
While the facility itself allows for viewing exhibits, the surrounding guided walking courses involve walking on uneven terrain, so please watch your step.