Bronze Statue of Saigo Takamori

A place where history and style intersect: The Saigo Takamori Statue in Shiroyama, Kagoshima

The bronze statue of Saigo Takamori, a landmark of Kagoshima City, is a monument to Saigo Takamori, a hero of the Meiji Restoration. Its imposing appearance against the backdrop of Shiroyama attracts the attention of tourists. It blends in with the natural surroundings of Shiroyama and has become a beloved historical symbol for local residents and visitors alike. As a staple of tourist routes, it is a spot where you can fully appreciate its imposing appearance and the history associated with it.

Attractions and Sightseeing Spots - What the Statues Tell

1. A symbol of the Meiji Restoration

This bronze statue was erected to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his death. It was completed on May 23, 1937, after eight years of work by Kagoshima-born sculptor Teru Ando (also known as the creator of "Faithful Dog Hachiko").
The imposing 8 m high statue (5.76 m high, 1.21 m high base, and 7.27 m high including the mound) of Saigo Takamori standing in a military uniform symbolizes his achievements and the pride of Kagoshima.

2. Harmony with Shiroyama and location

The statue is located halfway up Shiroyama, with lush greenery and the mountainside as a backdrop. You can view the statue from the footpath in Shiroyama Park or the city of Kagoshima from the observation deck, and feel a sense of unity with the surrounding scenery.
There is a photo spot in front of the statue, and there is also a space where you can take commemorative photos with the statue of your beloved dog.

3. A historical context

This place is set on Shiroyama, which has a deep connection to the life of Saigo Takamori, who returned to Kagoshima at the end of the Seinan War. In addition to the bronze statue, walking around the Shiroyama area allows you to feel the history of the Meiji Restoration that lives on in Kagoshima, and various monuments and information boards have been installed.
There is also a photo spot across the road from the statue, where you can take photos with the street and cityscape in the background.

Visitor Guide -

Tips for use and viewing

• Photo spot : You can take a powerful photo by taking the statue from the front or from a different angle with Shiroyama and the cityscape in the background.

• Walking along the promenade : While walking along the promenade on Shiroyama, you can enjoy the view from various angles, looking at the statue from afar or getting up close.

• Choose the time of day : The soft light of morning or evening creates a dramatic contrast between the statue and the trees. The strong light of midday also creates a striking shadow effect.

Precautions and preparation advice

• Footing : The promenade has stone steps and slopes, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• Crowds : Visitors may be more numerous during peak tourist seasons and on holidays, so consider coming earlier.

• Photography etiquette : Please be considerate of the walkway and other visitors when taking photos so as not to obstruct traffic.

• Observation Note : When using the adjacent facilities such as the Shiroyama Observatory, you will need to climb stairs and slopes, so please consider your physical strength.

Model sightseeing plan and proposed linked spots

Morning: Castle Mountain and Statue Walking Course

Depart from Kagoshima Chuo Station → Take the Kagoshima City View bus towards Shiroyama → Get off in front of the statue → View and photograph the Saigo Takamori statue → Take a leisurely stroll along the Shiroyama Promenade → Enjoy the view of the city and Sakurajima from the observation deck → Move to a nearby historical memorial spot

Lunch and Afternoon: Kagoshima City Sightseeing and Historical Tour

• Visit Tenmonkan, Terukuni Shrine, Kagoshima Prefectural History and Art Center Reimeikan, and more

• Enjoy black pork dishes, satsumaage, and other local delicacies for lunch in the city

• If you have time, take the Sakurajima Ferry to visit Sakurajima or head to Iso and Sengan-en.

Evening: Enjoy the change of scenery

We also recommend taking photos of the night and evening views from the direction of the statue, and enjoying the afterglow of the night view from Shiroyama's night view spots.

The Saigo Takamori bronze statue is a symbol of Kagoshima's landscape and history. The imposing statue conveys strength and local pride to the viewer, and its interaction with the scenery of Shiroyama and Kagoshima city creates a multi-layered appeal. Visit this place, a crossroads of landscape and people, and experience the history.