HISTORY

The history of coal mining is the pride of Tagawa! The museum which is centered around the theme of coal, stands on the former site of the Ita vertical shaft of Mitsui Tagawa Mining Station which was once the largest in the Chikuho area.
Visitors will get to understand the state of the coal mine in those days from the 15,000 coal-related artifacts and materials. Precious archaeological and historical materials, including Japan’ s oldest horse-shaped haniwa (a large hollow, earthenware funerary object) and armor-shaped haniwa, are also must-see items.
You can learn the history of Japan’s industrial revolution in the Meiji period (1868 – 1912) and the contribution of the coal mine town of Tagawa to the modernization of Japan.

» TOPICS：The coal mine paintings which are a part of Japan's first Memory of the World registry are a must see when you visit Tagawa

This park in Tagawa built on the original construction site is symbolized by the two chimneys and the Ita vertical shaft tower which represent the historical heritage of the site. They are registered as intangible cultural assets of Japan and are also considered assets of Japan’s industrial revolution during the Meiji period (1868 – 1912).
The Tagawa Coal Mine Festival (Tanko-bushi Matsuri) is held here at the birthplace of Tanko Bushi (a Japanese folk song about coal mining). In 2018, the site including the Ita vertical shaft of Mitsui Tagawa Mining Station, was designated as a national historic site of the Chikuho Coalfield Ruins. The Coal Mine Festival held on the first Sunday of November is enlivened by a mass Tanko-bushi dance. If you walk up the hill you can enjoy a panoramic view of Mt.Kawaradake as well as the ground drawings of the two chimneys. You can take impressive photos from any angle!

» TOPICS：Tagawa was known as a coal mining town that greatly contributed to the industrial revolution in Japan.

You can write your worries or disasters that you want to avoid on the amulet and put it into the amulet sheath. This is a unique amulet that is found only at this shrine and is a must-buy item. The shrine is known for its Kawawatari Jinkosai (lit. River Crossing Festival). There is also a smaller shrine called Fujigu within the precincts. It is the only shrine in Japan believed to keep evil spirits inside.

There are many unique stone images of Jizo (a guardian deity of children) in Tagawa. This stone image of Ganbare Jizo cheers you on! The word "Ganbare" in Japanese means"good luck." This Jizo with a kind face looks as if it is encouraging people who are in trouble. The highlights are Nakazugaike Pond, where a mysterious legend has been handed down, and the Memorial Tower of Kogo no Tsubone who was a favorite mistress of Emperor Takaku. The image of Mt. Kawara through the quietly standing gate of Jodoji Temple is also very mystic.

» TOPICS：Visit the adorable Jizo statues at the temple!

Go through the approach that continues from the residential area to the temple precincts, where expressive stone images of Jizo (a guardian deity of children) are scattered. Many wind chimes are suspended in this temple from May through September and is also a popular spot to view the changing colors of the autumn leaves.
One of the popular Jizo is named “Guts-Pose Jizo.”. The term “guts-pose” means victory pose and is now commonly used in the Japanese language. There are many photogenic and scenic spots located throughout the temple which are great for posting to social media.
The main hall of Mitsuidera Temple which was built to hold memorial services for the mine workers is enshrined with a statue of Sekitan Daishi (lit. Great Priest of Coal) made of coal.

» TOPICS：Visit the adorable Jizo statues at the temple!

The surroundings include a primeval forest and fantastically‐shaped rocks. The stunning temple gate and the main hall are also worth seeing. This temple is also well known as Ajisai Temple (lit. Hydrangea Temple).

This is a memorial monument built for people who died during coal mine work, leaving no one to attend to their graves.
The monument consoles the spirits of those who were engaged in harsh labor as coal mine workers from Japan and various Asian countries, and is maintained and managed by various people, including local youth groups.

It can clearly be seen from the station platforms. When people stand on the platforms of Funao Station, the huge Tagawa plant of Aso Cement stands in front of them. The scene of the approaching plant looks as if it were a different world.