HOME > Japan’s Local Treasures > Kagoshima’s Samurai Town of Izumi
Take an ox-drawn cart ride through history in the samurai town of Izumi while dressed in silky kimono, yukata, or samurai armor
Izumi City
During the Azuchi-Momoyama period (1568-1603), the 17th lord of the Shimazu clan, Yoshihiro Shimazu, established a system of outer castles in various areas around the Satsuma province (now the western half of modern-day Kagoshima Prefecture) to enhance defense against neighboring provinces. Izumi, being the northern gateway to Satsuma, received special attention as one of these sites.
The Saisho-tei residence is one of the publicly accessible samurai residences within the Izumi historic samurai residence district. Here, visitors can experience wearing kimono, yukata, and even samurai armor, and female participants opting for kimono or yukata can even take their clothing and obi home with them afterwards. The residence also offers the chance to immerse yourself in the refined art of samurai-style tea ceremony.
Imagine exploring the historic streets, dressed in vibrant armor and elegant traditional garments while feeling like a lord or princess from the 1600s, as a gentle ox pulls you along. Take your sartorial experience to the next level with Izumi Kanko Gissya, which offers an ox-drawn cart riding tour led by a knowledgeable guide who will share stories about the town’s history and architectural gems during your ride through the vast Izumi historical district.
How to get there
From Hakata Station, take the Kyushu Shinkansen to Izumi Station (about 1 hour and 10 minutes). The Izumi Fumoto Samurai Residence District is about 25 minutes on foot from Izumi Station. Alternatively, take the bus to Gion-mae bus stop (about 5 minutes), then walk for 7 minutes.
10-39 Fumoto-cho, Izumi-shi, Kagoshima-ken
