Tanegashima, an island located in the Pacific Ocean south of Kagoshima Prefecture, is widely known as the place where firearms were first introduced to Japan, nearly 500 years ago. The arrival of firearms had a profound impact on Japanese history, making Tanegashima famous nationwide as the birthplace of Japanese firearms technology. However, few people are aware that fasteners were also introduced to Japan along with these firearms.

Fasteners arrived in Japan together with firearms
According to historical records, a Chinese ship carrying Portuguese traders was blown off course and came ashore at Maenohama on Tanagashima in 1543. The Portuguese brought matchlock firearms; this was the first arrival of guns in Japan. The local leader at the time, Tokitaka Tanegashima, purchased two matchlock guns and ordered local blacksmiths to reproduce them. Although the craftsmen eventually succeeded, after extensive trial and error, in manufacturing the gun barrels, they had great difficulty in reproducing the threaded fastener used for the breech plug, which seals the rear end of the barrel (Photo 1). The following year, the Portuguese returned to the island and taught the blacksmiths the techniques required to manufacture the breech plug. With the successful development of this fastening technology, Japan-made firearms were finally created.

The breech plug serves as a lid that withstands the enormous pressure generated when a firearm is discharged. As such, it is a critical component for ensuring its safe operation. In December 2025, a monument replicating a breech plug was installed on the beach where the Portuguese are believed to have landed in 1544. The monument commemorates the history of the arrival of fasteners in Japan, introduced to Japan alongside matchlock firearms, and it helps preserve this important story for future generations.

Tanegashima where history and the future meet
While Tanegashima is known as the birthplace of firearms and fastener technology in Japan, it is also home to the cutting-edge technology that supports the nation’s space development efforts. The Tanegashima Space Center, located in Minamitane Town, serves as one of Japan’s most important facilities for launching and assembling rockets. While the center plays a vital role in the country’s space exploration programs and it is also a popular tourist destination. At the JAXA Space Science and Technology Museum, located within the space center grounds, visitors can learn about rockets, satellites and space exploration. Tanegashima is a unique place where the past and the future coexist. The island continues to play a remarkable role in the advancement of technology.

(left)Teppou Yuri (gun lily), known in English as the Easter lily, is the official flower of Nishiomote City on Tanegashima. Its Japanese name originates from the flower’s resemblance to the muzzle of a firearm.
(right)Matchlock firearms

【Tanegashima】
Location: Kumage District, Kagoshima Prefecture (Osumi Islands)
Size: Approximately 445 square kilometers
Access: About 40 minutes by air from Kagoshima Airport. About 1 hour and 40 minutes by high-speed ferry or about 3.5 hours by regular ferry from Kagoshima Port
Climate and features: Tanegashima enjoys a mild maritime climate with relatively warm temperatures throughout the year. The island is well known for its sugarcane and Anno sweet potato production. Its beautiful coastlines, crystal-clear waters and abundant natural scenery make it a popular tourist destination.

Article by Ikumi Shinomiya