Kameyama Shachu ruins (Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Kameyama Shachu was a trading company-like organization founded in Nagasaki by Sakamoto Ryoma, a patriot of the late Edo period, and began operations in 1865 (the first year of the Keio era). It was primarily involved in shipping, maritime trade, and trade, and is said to have also engaged in foreign negotiations, intelligence gathering, and weapons procurement, later developing into the "Kaientai." The current site of Kameyama Shachu has been preserved and maintained as a memorial hall and exhibition space, where you can view materials and historical sites introducing Sakamoto Ryoma and his activities at the time. Located in a hilly area facing Nagasaki Port, the area's appeal lies in its many attractions, including the surrounding historical buildings and scenic port scenery.

Highlights

• The museum's permanent exhibits include materials, photographs, and replicas related to the activities of Sakamoto Ryoma and Kameyama Shachu, as well as Nagasaki at the time. The museum also provides easy-to-understand explanations of the trade and voyages in which Ryoma was involved.
• Monument and site of Kameyama Shachu: You can get a feel for the local atmosphere at the monument and information boards that stand at the actual site where the Shachu was active.
• Surrounding historical scenery: You can stroll through areas that retain the atmosphere of the late Edo period to the Meiji period, including Nagasaki Port, Glover Garden, and Oura Cathedral, all in one place.
• Special exhibitions and explanatory panels: You can gain more detailed background knowledge through special exhibitions and lectures held regularly (we recommend checking the schedule in advance).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• By train or tram: Take the tram from JR Nagasaki Station to the Oura Tenshudo Shita stop, then walk up the hill for about 5-10 minutes. It's easy to find the route by heading towards Glover Garden.
• Walking distance: Within walking distance of Glover Garden and Oura Cathedral (both have slopes). As it is located on the tourist route, we recommend combining your stroll with the surrounding historical sites.
• Car/Taxi: Approximately 10 minutes by taxi from Nagasaki Station (depending on traffic conditions). As the surrounding area is a tourist destination, parking is limited, so it is more convenient to use public transportation.
• Bus: You can also use the sightseeing bus (stops vary depending on the route and operation status). For details, please check with Nagasaki City's transportation information or tourist information center.
• Note: Opening hours, admission fees, and closing days may change, so please check the official website or tourist information for the latest information before visiting.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Tour of the museum: Approximately 30-45 minutes (approximately 1 hour if you want to thoroughly look at the exhibits)
• Walking around the area (including Glover Garden and Oura Cathedral): 1.5 to 3 hours in total

Nearby spots

• Glover Garden: A popular tourist spot where you can enjoy the view of the Western-style buildings from the end of the Edo period and the Meiji period and Nagasaki Port. It is within walking distance of the Kameyama Shachu ruins.
• Oura Cathedral (Oura Tenshudo): One of the oldest surviving Christian buildings in Japan. Located nearby, it is easy to visit.
• Dejima (Dejima Museum): A trading hub during the isolation period. Learn about the history of Nagasaki's foreign cultural exchange.
• Chinatown (Shinchi Chinatown): Great for dining and souvenirs. Convenient for taking a break from sightseeing.
• Meganebashi Bridge: A historic stone bridge in the city center that is easy to incorporate into your sightseeing route.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Slopes and steps: The area around the Kameyama Shachu ruins is hilly and has many slopes and stairs. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Wheelchairs and strollers may be difficult to access in some areas.
• Busy periods: The area will be crowded during Golden Week, summer vacation, the New Year holidays, and peak tourist seasons. Please allow plenty of time for your visit.
• Photography: Whether or not you can take photos of exhibits varies by location. Some exhibits may prohibit photography of materials inside display cases, so please follow the posted notices.
• Manners: Historic sites and facilities are public property. Please do not touch exhibits, refrain from eating or drinking inside the museum, and be considerate of other visitors.
• Check the latest information: Opening hours, admission fees, special exhibitions, etc. are subject to change. Please check the official website or Nagasaki City tourist information for the latest information before visiting.

The Kameyama Shachu ruins are a place where you can feel the connection between Sakamoto Ryoma and Nagasaki, and a tour of the surrounding historical sites from the end of the Edo period will deepen your understanding. Please wear comfortable clothing and enjoy touring the historical sites.