Discover a Unique Blend of East and West at the Former Shimazu Family Serigano Gold Mine Mining Office

Standing gracefully near the entrance of the renowned Sengan-en Garden in Kagoshima, the Former Shimazu Family Serigano Gold Mine Mining Office offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Japan's fascinating industrial past. This elegant two-story building, now operating as a Starbucks café, represents one of the most distinctive examples of Meiji-era (1868-1912) architecture, seamlessly blending Western design elements with traditional Japanese roofing techniques.

Unlike typical tourist destinations, this registered tangible cultural property allows you to step inside history while enjoying a cup of coffee with breathtaking views of Sakurajima volcano—an experience that perfectly encapsulates the harmonious coexistence of old and new that defines modern Japan.

A Building Steeped in Gold Mining History

The building was originally constructed in 1904 (Meiji 37) as the administrative headquarters for the Shimazu family's gold mining operations at the Serigano Gold Mine in Kushikino Village, now part of Ichiki-Kushikino City. The Serigano Gold Mine was one of three major gold mines that supported the Satsuma Domain's finances during the Edo period, alongside Yamagano and Kakago gold mines.

Gold mining at Serigano began in 1652 when gold veins were discovered by surveyor Yagi Echigo-no-kami Masanobu. By 1660, under the direction of Shimazu Tsunataka, full-scale mining operations commenced, at one point employing over 7,000 miners. The precious gold extracted from these mines not only enriched the Satsuma Domain but is also believed to have funded the samurai warriors who played crucial roles in the Meiji Restoration.

After serving its original purpose for decades, the building was relocated in 1923 to Joseicho district, then moved again in 1986 to its current location adjacent to Sengan-en Garden, where it continues to preserve the legacy of Kagoshima's industrial heritage.

Why This Building Earned Cultural Property Status

The Former Shimazu Family Serigano Gold Mine Mining Office was designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property on August 23, 1999, recognized as "a model of architectural form." This prestigious designation acknowledges the building's exceptional value in several aspects:

The structure represents a remarkable fusion of architectural traditions. The main two-story building features a yosemune (hip roof) design, while the entrance showcases a kata-irimoya (partial gabled hip) roof. A distinctive extension sports a mukuri (gently curved) roof—a style typically found in traditional Japanese architecture. Yet the exterior walls are finished in shitami-ita (clapboard siding), a Western technique, and the second floor features an impressive continuous arched veranda that speaks clearly to European influence.

This harmonious blend of Eastern and Western elements was characteristic of the Meiji era, when Japan rapidly modernized while striving to maintain its cultural identity. The building stands as a testament to this transformative period in Japanese history.

Highlights and What to See

Visitors to the Former Shimazu Family Serigano Gold Mine Mining Office can enjoy numerous unique features that make this destination truly special.

The exterior architecture itself is a masterpiece worth photographing from multiple angles. Look up at the roof to spot the Shimazu family crest—the famous "circle with a cross" (maruni jumonji)—proudly displayed on the building. The continuous arched veranda on the second floor creates a striking visual rhythm that photographers particularly appreciate.

Inside, historical photographs documenting the building's original location at the Serigano Gold Mine transport visitors back to the era when miners worked tirelessly to extract gold from the earth. The interior design thoughtfully incorporates elements inspired by Satsuma-kiriko, Kagoshima's renowned cut glass tradition, whose geometric patterns are echoed in the modern renovations.

The second-floor seating area offers spectacular views of Sakurajima volcano and Kinko Bay—the same dramatic landscape that has inspired visitors to Sengan-en for over 350 years. On clear days, watching the active volcano emit gentle plumes of smoke while sipping your beverage creates an unforgettable experience.

Nearby Attractions

The building's location makes it an ideal starting or ending point for exploring the Iso district, one of Kagoshima's most historically significant areas.

Sengan-en Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage Site component, lies immediately adjacent. This stunning feudal lord's garden was established in 1658 by Shimazu Mitsuhisa and features Sakurajima volcano and Kinko Bay as its "borrowed scenery." The garden encompasses approximately 15,000 tsubo (about 5 hectares) and includes the Goten (palace), where visitors can experience the lifestyle of the Shimazu lords.

The Shoko Shuseikan Museum, housed in Japan's oldest surviving Western-style factory building, tells the story of the Shimazu family's ambitious modernization efforts during the late Edo period. The nearby Reflection Furnace Ruins provide tangible evidence of Japan's early attempts at Western-style iron manufacturing.

For those interested in traditional crafts, the Satsuma-kiriko Factory offers demonstrations of this beautiful cut glass art form, which nearly disappeared after the Meiji Restoration before being revived in the 20th century.