A power generation method employing a thermoelectric generating element having high thermoelectric generation performance and applicable to more uses. A thermoelectric generating element and a thermoelectric generating device are also provided. The thermoelectric generating element comprises first and second electrodes arranged oppositely, and a laminate sandwiched between the first and second electrodes and connected electrically with both electrodes. The laminate has such a structure as an SrB6 layer and a metal layer containing Cu, Ag, Au or Al are laminated alternately. The ratio of the thickness of the metal layer to that of the SrB6 layer falls in the range of 20:1 to 2.5:1. Lamination surface of the SrB6 layer and the metal layer is inclining from the facing direction when the firstand second electrodes face at an inclination angle theta of 20 DEG or more but not more than 50 DEG and a potential difference is generated between the first and second electrodes of the thermoelectric generating element by the temperature difference of the element in the direction perpendicular to the facing direction.