Glover Garden Nagasaki
Historic Western mansions and manicured gardens with sweeping views of Nagasaki Port.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Glover Garden Nagasaki
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Western mansions and manicured gardens with sweeping views of Nagasaki Port.
"A romantic chapter of history with breathtaking views over Nagasaki Harbor."
Top-Down Exploration
Start at the upper entrance and walk downhill for an easier experience with escalators and fewer stairs . :athletic_shoe:
Rent a Dress for Photos
Enhance your visit with a rental dress for memorable photos. Bring matching shoes! :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Glover Residence
Hillside of Minami-Yamate
Japan's oldest Western-style wooden house, offering a glimpse into the lives of foreign merchants.

Nagasaki Port Views
Various vantage points throughout the garden
Breathtaking panoramic vistas of the harbor, distant mountains, and the sparkling bay.

Western-Style Mansions
Scattered throughout the garden
Explore nine historic Western-style buildings, each with unique architecture and period furnishings.

Heart Stones
Hidden along garden paths
Legend says couples who find and touch these stones will stay together.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds with Smart Timing
Dress for the Occasion
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Top-Down Exploration
Start at the upper entrance and walk downhill for an easier experience with escalators and fewer stairs.
:athletic_shoe:Rent a Dress for Photos
Enhance your visit with a rental dress for memorable photos. Bring matching shoes! :camerawithflash:
Utilize the Glover Sky Road
Take the tram to Ishibashi and use the funicular/elevator for direct access to the upper garden entrance.
:tram:Discover Local Souvenirs
Explore the shops near the exit for unique Nagasaki cakes and beautiful glass souvenirs. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
Top-Down Exploration
Start at the upper entrance and walk downhill for an easier experience with escalators and fewer stairs.
:athletic_shoe:Rent a Dress for Photos
Enhance your visit with a rental dress for memorable photos. Bring matching shoes! :camerawithflash:
Utilize the Glover Sky Road
Take the tram to Ishibashi and use the funicular/elevator for direct access to the upper garden entrance.
:tram:Discover Local Souvenirs
Explore the shops near the exit for unique Nagasaki cakes and beautiful glass souvenirs. :shopping_bags:
Evening Illuminations
Check for special night events with beautiful illuminations, especially during anniversary celebrations.
:sparkler:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Glover Garden is a highly recommended historical site in Nagasaki, praised for its beautiful Western-style architecture, serene gardens, and stunning harbor views. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained grounds, the historical insights into Japan's modernization, and the romantic ambiance. The recommended top-down approach via the Glover Sky Road enhances the experience, making it accessible and enjoyable.
"Must visit if you have extra time after Peace Park and the bomb museum. It is basically an estate converted to a museum/exhibit garden. Details the time after Japan's period of isolation and its rapid industrialization. There is a great showcase of boat floats near the gift shop, don't miss it."
ItzMe
"We visited Glover Garden during our trip to Nagasaki, and honestly, it felt like stepping back into a romantic chapter of history. Set on the hillside of Minami-Yamate, the garden is full of charming Western-style buildings from the Meiji era, including the famous Glover Residence—the oldest Western-style wooden house in Japan.
Walking along the cobblestone paths lined with seasonal flowers, I loved how the architecture blends Western design with Japanese roof tiles and beautiful gardens. Inside the Glover House, the period furniture and sunlit rooms really made it easy to imagine life back then for foreign merchants living here.
The views over Nagasaki Harbor from different spots were absolutely breathtaking—the crisp air, distant mountains, and sparkling bay made for some of my favorite photo moments. One fun surprise was finding the “Heart Stones” hidden along the paths—there’s a local legend that couples who find and touch them will stay together, which added a cute, romantic touch to the visit.
What I really appreciated was the peaceful vibe of the whole place. It wasn’t overcrowded, so we could take our time exploring and just soak in the atmosphere. The garden is easy to navigate with escalators and plenty of benches to relax on, making the visit comfortable and leisurely.
If you’re visiting Nagasaki, I’d definitely recommend Glover Garden. It’s a beautiful mix of history, architecture, and nature that makes for a really memorable experience."
Crumpled Nomad
"Props to the guy in TripAdvisor who gave this advice/hack: “take the tram to the terminus of Line 5 at Ishibashi; it's only a short walk from there (150m) to the Glover Sky Road where you can ride the funicular/elevator to the upper entrance/exit (Gate 2) of Glover Garden. Once in the Garden itself, it's much more of a gentle downhill stroll to take in the various properties on your way down to the lower exit near Oura Cathedral.”
Trust me this is the way to do it otherwise you will be hoofing it uphill and a lot of stairs. There are escalators taking you up to various parts of the garden but it is MUCH easier to start at the top and work your way downhill. I was super chuffed :) Our ship docked just a quick walk to the tram station, and it’s only 150¥ pp to ride (you can pay cash). They do sell day passes at the information center by the cruise port - which will give you access to all over Nagasaki if you want to visit the Peace Park or Atomic Bomb museum.
The garden itself was lovely - not the most amazing place I’ve seen in Japan - but definitely worth a visit. You can enter the homes which are very neat to see but nothing life changing if you’ve seen western style colonial homes before.
Also FYI the vending machines just outside of Glover Garden are much cheaper than the ones inside. No sweet potato machines but there’s a very cool massive capsule machine when you exit the gift shop!
Upon exiting there is a little street running downhill full of amazing shops, a lot selling the famous Nagasaki cakes - but my favorite was the glass shop (you can’t miss it) - so much beautiful jewelry and glass souvenirs!"
Sophia Chiu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way is to take the tram (Line 5) to the Ishibashi terminus. From there, walk to the Glover Sky Road and take the funicular/elevator to the upper entrance of Glover Garden. This allows for a pleasant downhill stroll through the gardens.
Alternatively, you can walk from the Oura Cathedral area, but be prepared for uphill climbs.While there might be parking facilities in Nagasaki city, using public transport like the tram is highly recommended for easier access to Glover Garden, especially with the recommended top-down approach via the Glover Sky Road.
Yes, it's a relatively short walk from the cruise port to the tram station. You can then take the tram to Ishibashi and use the Glover Sky Road. Day passes for trams are available at the information center by the cruise port.
The Glover Sky Road is a moving walkway and elevator system that takes you up the hillside to the upper entrance of Glover Garden. It's a convenient way to access the garden, especially if you prefer to start your visit from the top.
Besides the tram and the Glover Sky Road, you can also reach the garden by walking from nearby attractions like Oura Cathedral. However, the tram and Sky Road combination is often cited as the most comfortable approach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is around 600 yen for adults, with reduced prices for high school students (300 yen) and elementary/junior high students (180 yen).
Prices may vary, so it's always good to check the official website for the most current information.Glover Garden is typically open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times before your visit.
While not explicitly mentioned in all sources, purchasing tickets at the entrance is common. For special events like evening illuminations, booking in advance might be necessary.
There are discounted rates for students (high school, junior high, and elementary).
It's worth inquiring about any other potential discounts upon arrival or checking the official website.The garden has escalators and moving walkways to assist with the uphill sections.
However, some older buildings might have stairs. The overall layout is designed to be navigable, with a gentle downhill stroll recommended from the top entrance.📸 📸 Photography & Views
The entire garden offers stunning photo opportunities. Key spots include the viewpoints overlooking Nagasaki Port, the exterior of the historic Western-style mansions, and the beautifully landscaped gardens themselves.
Don't forget to look for the 'Heart Stones' for a romantic touch.Yes, especially during special evening events like the 'Madame Butterfly' illumination.
The garden is beautifully lit, offering a magical and romantic atmosphere with different views of the city lights.Many visitors rent dresses to take photos within the garden.
While professional photoshoots might require permits, casual photography is encouraged. Bringing a phone stand can be helpful for self-portraits.You'll get breathtaking panoramic views of Nagasaki Port, the surrounding hills, and the city skyline. The views change beautifully from day to night.
Visitors often highlight the areas with unobstructed views of the harbor and the iconic Western-style houses as prime photo locations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a tea house and a coffee shop within the garden that also sells snacks.
Vending machines are also available, though those outside the garden are noted as being cheaper.The options are generally light snacks and beverages available at the tea house and coffee shop.
For full meals, you'll find more options in Nagasaki city.While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring personal snacks and drinks to enjoy in designated areas or while resting on benches. However, it's always polite to clean up after yourself.
Yes, the area around Glover Garden, particularly the street leading downhill from the exit, has various shops and eateries. You can find famous Nagasaki cakes and other local treats.
Vending machine drinks are available, and while those inside are convenient, they are noted as being more expensive than those outside.
The tea house and coffee shop will have typical cafe pricing.🎫 💡 Visitor Experience
Start from the top entrance via the Glover Sky Road and enjoy a leisurely downhill walk, exploring the historic houses and gardens. Take your time to soak in the views and the historical atmosphere.
A suggested route takes around 40 minutes, but you can easily spend longer if you wish to explore each house thoroughly and enjoy the views.
Allow at least 1-2 hours for a comfortable visit.These are hidden stones along the garden paths. According to local legend, couples who find and touch them will have a lasting relationship.
Yes, it's a pleasant place for families. Children might enjoy the open spaces, the historical houses, and the legend of the 'Heart Stones'. The moving walkways can also be fun for kids.
Glover Garden showcases the period after Japan's isolation, highlighting its rapid industrialization. It features Western-style residences of foreign merchants like Thomas Glover, who played a role in Japan's modernization.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting a dress for memorable family photos. While the historical details might be more appreciated by adults, the overall beauty and manageable layout make it an enjoyable experience for all ages. Pack some snacks and drinks, or utilize the on-site cafes for a break.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For an even more magical experience, consider visiting during special evening illumination events. Renting a dress can add a whimsical touch to your photos, creating memorable and visually appealing shots. Remember to bring a phone stand if you plan on taking many self-portraits.
❤️ Couples and Romantics
Consider visiting during the late afternoon to catch the sunset over the harbor, or attend one of the special evening illumination events for a truly magical ambiance. Renting a dress can add a touch of elegance and fun to your visit, making for beautiful couple photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Thomas Glover and His Legacy
His influence extended beyond business; he is also believed to be the inspiration for the opera 'Madame Butterfly'. Visiting Glover Garden offers a tangible connection to this significant historical figure and his impact on Japan's development. The garden itself is a testament to the era of foreign trade and cultural exchange in Nagasaki.
Architectural Blend and Garden Design
The gardens themselves are meticulously landscaped, featuring a variety of seasonal flowers and plants. Walking through the grounds, you'll encounter cobblestone paths, lush greenery, and strategically placed benches offering picturesque views. The design encourages a leisurely exploration, allowing visitors to appreciate both the historical buildings and the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Experiencing Glover Garden: Tips from Visitors
Don't miss the chance to explore the shops near the exit, which offer local specialties like Nagasaki cakes and unique glass souvenirs. For those interested in the romantic legends, seeking out the 'Heart Stones' adds a fun, interactive element to the visit. The garden's peaceful ambiance, even on a winter day, is frequently praised, making it a serene escape.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit