Nagashima Museum

Overview & Charm

Nagashima Museum is a historic institution opened in 1989 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the establishment of Kagoshima City. Situated on an elevated site 110 meters above sea level, the museum offers a spectacular panoramic view of Sakurima, Kinko Bay, and the Kagoshima cityscape. This scenery is officially designated as one of the "Kagoshima Yokatoko 100 Selections," making the museum a unique destination where art and breathtaking landscapes meet. The surrounding area is lush with subtropical greenery, such as palm trees and phoenix trees, inviting visitors into a space filled with a tropical, southern atmosphere.

History & Cultural Background

The collection is based on the private collection of Kousuke Nagashima, the founder of the Nagashima Enterprise Group. The museum covers a wide range of genres, from Japanese modern masters like Seiki Kuroda and Takeji Fujishima to global icons such as Auguste Rodin and Marc Chagall. Additionally, the museum serves as a cultural bridge between the world and the local region, housing everything from prehistoric art discovered in South America to the traditional Satsuma ware of Kagoshima. Since its opening in 1989, it has been a cornerstone of Kagoshima's cultural dissemination.

Main Highlights

The museum features seven exhibition rooms hosting both permanent and special exhibitions. A particular highlight is the sculpture of "The Thinker," said to be supervised by Rodin himself, which stands with an overwhelming presence in the first-floor lobby. The collection includes approximately 1,000 precious items, including works by Marc Chagall and other modern masters. Beyond the exhibition rooms, sculptures are placed in public spaces like the courtyard, stairs, and lobby, turning the entire building into a cohesive artistic space.

Seasonal Recommendations

The museum offers different charms depending on the season. From late December to January, the garden features early-blooming rapeseed flowers (nanohana), creating a colorful landscape. While the view is beautiful year-round, on clear days, Sakurajima appears more vivid and the blue of Kinko Bay becomes strikingly deep. Visiting in the early morning is recommended for a quieter atmosphere to enjoy the art and scenery.

Experiences & Activities

In addition to art appreciation, visitors can enjoy shopping at the museum shop, which carries exclusive items like the Sanrio Characters "Museum Series" featuring unique designs. There is also an on-site cafe where you can relax between exhibitions. Furthermore, the museum offers a "Mini Guide Tour" led by staff. You can join this to deepen your understanding of the collection without the need for prior reservations.

Surrounding Area

The area surrounding the museum is rich in nature. Along with the views from the hill, you can enjoy the cityscape of Kagoshima. The area is also perfect for a stroll among various subtropical plants. Since it is easily accessible from Kagoshima City, we recommend visiting the museum in conjunction with other local sightseeing spots via car or bus.

Essentials: Clothing & Etiquette

To ensure a pleasant experience, please keep the following in mind:

• *Clothing**: While there is no strict dress code, we recommend comfortable walking shoes as the museum is located on a hill and involves stairs.
• *Payment**: Cash-based transactions are the standard. Please prepare cash for the reception and museum shop.
• *Language Support**: For English signage or inquiries regarding exhibitions, please consult the local staff.
• *Reservations**: No prior reservation is required for the permanent exhibitions or the mini-guide tours.
• *Photography**: Photography may be restricted in certain areas. Please follow the local instructions.
• *Etiquette**: To protect the precious artworks, please do not touch the exhibits and maintain a quiet environment.