Yokohama Nishi Ward

Description

Strolling through Nishi-ward: First Gaslight in Japan



It is a bit off ward boundary, but there is a gaslight in front of Honcho Elementary School which is just a stone's throw away from Momiji-zaka slope. It is the very first gaslight developed in Japan. The one on the site is restored one but the first gaslight was actually lighted up October in 1872 (Meiji 5).



Entrepreneur Kaemon Takashima completed great achievement of establishing a gas company. He left his name on the history as landfilling Takashima-cho area. He competed against foreign capitals including America and Germany. Right after he was licensed to operate, he expanded private funds to complete it by himself.



In Meiji 7, he amazed people by lighting up Takashima-kan, a Japanese-style restaurant and inn operated by himself and Minato-za theater which was opened in current Tokiwamachi with bright gaslights. Minato-za theater was opened with a performance of Nakamura Ganjyaku show. The program was said to be “Kinsei minato no sakigake” written by Segawa Jyoko ?.



Writing and picture by Tai Hasewaga (Nishi ward Cultural Association/Chairman of Kiko Society)



※This is a sketch and writing published in Yokohama Public Relation Nishi ward edition between November 1997 and April 2004. Please be noted that there’s a possibility that information in the article may be changed.



(Published September in 2000)