Guida
The Terayama Charcoal Kiln Site, located in Yoshino Town, Kagoshima City, is a stone-built kiln site used for charcoal production. It was established in 1858 (Ansei 5) by order of Shimazu Nariakira, the lord of the Satsuma Domain. This site is registered as a component of the UNESCO World Heritage 'Sites of Japan Industrial Revolution: Iron, Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining Industries.' The structure is characterized by its use of the natural slope, where the ground was excavated and reinforced with tuff stone to withstand extreme temperatures of up to 1,500°C. Even today, it preserves the traces of highly advanced charcoal-making techniques from that era.
In the mid-19th century, the Satsuma Domain was working toward national strengthening to compete with Western powers. As part of the 'Shuseikan Project'—a massive industrial development initiative—securing a massive energy source through charcoal production became an urgent priority. Since coal was not naturally available in the Satsuma territory, there was a critical need to produce high-quality white charcoal (shizumi) with high thermal efficiency. To achieve this, the domain adopted charcoal-making techniques from the Kishu domain and established kilns in this region, which was abundant in trees like oak and chestnut. The charcoal produced here was used to fuel the reverberatory furnaces at the Shuseikan complex and in the manufacturing of glass and ceramics.
The most striking feature is the robust stone-stacked kiln, which stands approximately 3 meters high and 5 to 6 meters in diameter. The unique structure, utilizing the natural slope, demonstrates the high level of engineering skill of the time. Additionally, a monument dedicated to the poet Hatta Tomoki, who wrote verses praising the establishment of these kilns, stands before the site, providing a glimpse into the cultural atmosphere of the period. The sight of the stone masonry nestled within nature evokes a profound sense of industrial history.
As this is an open historical site, there are no specific opening hours, and it is accessible 24 hours a day. The site is surrounded by lush greenery, offering different-looking scenery throughout the seasons. Visiting during bright daylight hours is recommended, as it allows for a clear observation of the intricate stone structures and their harmony with the surrounding forest. However, as it is an outdoor site, please be mindful of temperature changes and weather conditions.
Visitors can witness firsthand the site where the energy supply for Japan's modernization was produced. You can trace the history of Japan's industrial development through the lens of 'charcoal production,' a vital component of the massive Shuseikan Project. A quiet walk through the surrounding nature allows you to reflect on how people in the past secured fuel and paved the way for modernization.
Various other ruins related to the Shuseikan Project and sites reflecting the history of Kagoshima City are scattered in the vicinity. To deepen your understanding of the Industrial Revolution, it is highly recommended to visit this site in conjunction with the 'Former Shuseikan' facility, located approximately 5.5 km north-northeast of the kiln. The surrounding environment still retains the characteristics of a region once rich in trees used for charcoal production.