Hosokawa Clan Sankin-kōtai Gozabune “Naminashi-maru” Symposium & Exhibition
Symposium: February 11, 2026 (Wed, National Holiday) from 1:30 PM
Venue: 📍Kumamoto Terrsa Hotel, 1F Hall (Free Admission)
Exhibition: February 11 (Wed) – February 23 (Mon), 2026
Venue: Suizenji Jojuen Garden Exhibition Hall（📍MAP14）
※ Garden admission fee required.
Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
This symposium and exhibition focus on the ceremonial boat
“Naminashi-maru”, used by the Hosokawa clan during the Edo-period
Sankin-kōtai (alternate attendance) system.
Through expert lectures and related exhibits, this program explores the historical,
cultural, and aesthetic significance of the gozabune, highlighting the refined culture
and maritime heritage of the Hosokawa clan.
This event also supports recovery efforts following the major fire disaster in
former Hosokawa clan–related districts in Saganoseki, Oita Prefecture,
aiming to expand cultural solidarity through heritage.
“Naminashi-maru” Symposium Program
This symposium examines the Sankin-kōtai system and the ceremonial boat “Naminashi-maru”
from multiple perspectives, including history, art, and restoration techniques.
※ Advance registration is required.
Please apply using the form below.
| Session | Theme | Speaker | Overview |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part 1 | Sankin-kōtai and the Hosokawa Clan | Ryoji Yoshimaru Honorary Chairman, Kumamoto Prefectural Cultural Association |
An overview of the Hosokawa clan’s Sankin-kōtai routes and the role of “Naminashi-maru” in cultural exchange between Edo and Kumamoto. |
| Part 2 | About “Naminashi-maru” | Takamitsu Kiyama Curator (History), Kumamoto Museum |
The history, structure, and preservation of the sixth-generation “Naminashi-maru” based on historical documents. |
| Part 3 | Medicinal Plants of Higo — Botanical Paintings on the Ceiling — |
Masato Watanabe Kumamoto University / Medicinal Plant Garden |
An introduction to medicinal plant culture through 171 botanical illustrations linked to Lord Hosokawa Shigekata’s garden “Banjien.” |
| Part 4 | Reproduction of Ceiling Paintings | Kohei Otsuka Director, Kumamoto Cultural Heritage Project (NPO) |
Traditional restoration techniques using gofun and natural pigments, and their cultural significance. |
For further details, please refer to the official pamphlet.
If you wish to attend, please apply using the registration form below.
