Historical Tour of Misumi West Port: Revisiting Three Landmark Structures from the Meiji Maritime Era

Stepping into Misumi West Port in Kumamoto feels like entering a living museum of Meiji-era architecture. Beyond the stone pier and Western-style buildings, three core facilities that witnessed the port's prosperity are must-sees—the Old Misumi Shipping Warehouse (Misumi Port Memorial Hall), the Old Takata Shipping Office, and the bronze statue of Tomioka Keimei, who contributed significantly to the port's construction.

🔸Old Misumi Shipping Warehouse (Misumi Port Memorial Hall)
Built in 1887, this two-story earthen warehouse is the only original logistics facility from the port's early days that still stands today. Covering an area of 168㎡, it is located at the southeastern wharf's edge, featuring extended eaves and water-cut tiles on the side walls, showcasing a typical modern storage style. Now transformed into a unique restaurant and exhibition space, dining by the window feels like conversing with the trade memories of a century ago.

🔸Old Takata Shipping Office
This two-story wooden residence was once the shipping business headquarters of the renowned Takata Gimaru family, who operated vessels such as Justice Maru and Harima Maru, handling both cargo and passenger transport. The building's interior includes six rooms and a water room, recreating the scenes of the shipping company's office and guest reception. It has been restored and opened to the public, allowing visitors to experience the pulse of the maritime industry of the past.

🔸Bronze Statue of Tomioka Keimei
Tomioka Keimei, a key figure in the development of Misumi Port, served as the governor of Kumamoto Prefecture and was actively involved in port planning and the defense of Kumamoto Castle during the Southwest War. His bronze statue stands on a high point overlooking the harbor, symbolizing the beginning of the port and Kumamoto's modernization. This legendary bureaucrat's figure continues to remind us of the land's reform and resilience.

Strolling through Misumi West Port, these structures are not only cultural assets but also essential pieces of the port town's charm. A must-visit for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and photography travelers!

Post by Jason906 | Jul 31, 2025