Where Japan’s Modernization Began at the Foot of Mount Fuji — Discover the Technological Revolution of the Late Edo Period at Nirayama Reverberatory Furnaces

Provided by Izunokuni City

A World Heritage Site Preserving the Memory of Japan’s Industrial Revolution

Located in Izunokuni City, Shizuoka Prefecture, the Nirayama Reverberatory Furnaces are cannon-casting facilities built during the final years of the Edo period. In 2015, they were inscribed as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining.

Following the arrival of Commodore Perry in 1853, Japan began rapidly adopting Western technology. It was during this period that the Nirayama Reverberatory Furnaces were constructed under the leadership of Egawa Hidetatsu, the Nirayama Magistrate.

Today, these furnaces remain the only surviving reverberatory furnaces in Japan that are known to have actually operated and produced cannons. Standing approximately 15.7 meters tall, the brick structures continue to preserve their original appearance, offering visitors a glimpse into the era when Japan began its journey toward becoming a modern nation.

Discover the Innovation of the Late Edo Period

Provided by Izunokuni City

1. The Only Existing Reverberatory Furnaces in Japan Known to Have Been Operational

The greatest significance of the Nirayama Reverberatory Furnaces lies in their historical value.

A reverberatory furnace is a type of melting furnace used to produce iron cannons and other metal products at extremely high temperatures.

During the closing years of the Edo period, several reverberatory furnaces were constructed throughout Japan as the country sought to strengthen its coastal defenses. However, very few have survived to the present day. Among them, Nirayama is uniquely recognized as the only surviving facility in Japan confirmed to have been used for actual cannon production.

Standing before the massive brick structures, visitors can appreciate the determination and ambition of the Japanese engineers who worked to master cutting-edge Western technology during a period of dramatic change.

2. Learn About Japan’s Road to Modernization at the Guidance Center

Adjacent to the furnaces is the Nirayama Reverberatory Furnaces Guidance Center.

Through exhibits, models, and audiovisual presentations, visitors can learn about:

• The historical background behind the construction of the furnaces

• The achievements of Egawa Hidetatsu

• The cannon-casting process

• The connection between the furnaces and Japan’s industrial modernization

The displays are designed to be accessible even for visitors with little prior knowledge of Japanese history. Exploring the Guidance Center before visiting the furnaces helps provide valuable context and a deeper understanding of their significance.

Provided by Izunokuni City

3. The Story of Egawa Hidetatsu and Japan’s Modern Transformation

No discussion of the Nirayama Reverberatory Furnaces would be complete without mentioning Egawa Hidetatsu, the visionary Nirayama Magistrate who led the project.

Recognizing the importance of Western military technology and coastal defense, Egawa advocated for the construction of the furnaces and played a pivotal role in advancing Japan’s technological capabilities.

His efforts represented far more than a military initiative. They became an important step toward Japan’s broader industrial modernization and engagement with the outside world.

Today, the Nirayama Reverberatory Furnaces stand not only as a technological monument but also as a symbol of a nation looking beyond its borders and embracing change.

4. A Historical Destination Easily Combined with Exploring Izu

The Nirayama Reverberatory Furnaces are conveniently located for travelers exploring the Izu Peninsula.

Nearby attractions include Egawa Residence, the former home of Egawa Hidetatsu, as well as Izu Nagaoka Onsen, one of the region’s most popular hot spring destinations.

On clear days, visitors may also enjoy views of Mount Fuji from the surrounding area, creating a memorable combination of World Heritage history and Japan’s most iconic natural landmark.

For travelers interested in combining cultural exploration with sightseeing in Izu, Nirayama offers a rewarding and meaningful stop.

The Challenge That Helped Shape Japan’s Future

The Nirayama Reverberatory Furnaces are more than a historic structure.

They represent the determination of the people who, during one of the most turbulent periods in Japanese history, embraced new technology and worked to build a stronger future for their country.

Standing before these remarkable furnaces, visitors gain insight into how Japan’s modernization began and the visionaries who made it possible.

If your travels bring you to Izu, be sure to visit the Nirayama Reverberatory Furnaces and experience one of the most important landmarks in the story of Japan’s industrial revolution.

Provided by Izunokuni City

Visitor Information

Name: Nirayama Reverberatory Furnaces

Location: 268 Naka, Izunokuni City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan

TEL: +81-55-949-3450

Admission: Adults (high school age and above): ¥500 Elementary and junior high school students: ¥50

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (March–September) 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM (October–February)

Access:

• Approximately 25 minutes on foot from Izu-Nagaoka Station on the Izuhakone Railway Sunzu Line

• Approximately 15 minutes by car from Ema IC on the Izu-Jukan Expressway

Parking: Available

Official Website:https://www.city.izunokuni.shizuoka.jp/bunka_bunkazai/manabi/bunkazai/hansyaro/

Please check the official website for the latest information regarding opening hours, admission fees, and holiday schedules.