What Is Glover Garden? A World Heritage Sight and Top Attraction in Nagasaki
Glover Garden, located in Minamiyamate in Nagasaki City, is a popular tourist spot featuring a collection of historic Western-style residences built from the late Edo period through the Meiji era.
Centered around the Former Glover House, once the residence of Scottish merchant Thomas Blake Glover, you can tour important historic buildings such as the Former Ringer House and the Former Alt House, both designated Important Cultural Properties of Japan.
From the roughly 30,000-square-meter grounds, you can overlook Nagasaki Port, where beautiful views and historic architecture blend into a uniquely international atmosphere.
The Former Glover House is registered as a component part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site “Sites of Japan’s Meiji Industrial Revolution,” attracting attention worldwide.
Top Things to Do at Glover Garden
1. Former Glover House (World Heritage)
The Former Glover House, the centerpiece of Glover Garden, is one of Japan’s oldest surviving wooden Western-style buildings, built in 1863.
Its distinctive roof forms a four-leaf clover shape when viewed from above, and the design beautifully blends Japanese and Western elements.
After repairs and restoration, it is open to the public with exhibitions and explanations that bring the lifestyle of the era to life.
AR-based video guides may also be introduced, helping you experience the history even more deeply.
2. Historic buildings throughout the garden
In addition to the Former Glover House, other Western residences from the late Edo to Meiji period—such as the Former Ringer House and the Former Alt House—have been relocated and restored within the grounds.
Each residence is designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan as a valuable resource conveying historical lifestyles and architectural techniques.
Free guided tours may be offered at set times, so please check on-site information for dates and schedules.
3. Beautiful gardens and seasonal flowers
The grounds feature gardens filled with seasonal blooms throughout the year.
From March to April you may see amana lilies and Lady Banks’ roses; in spring, tulips; and in the rainy season, hydrangeas at their best.
In the greenhouse at the Former Glover House, descendants of the orchid Cymbidium tracyanum—brought to Japan by Glover himself—still bloom today.
In summer through autumn, extended evening openings may be held, with illuminations that create a different ambiance from daytime.
4. Find romance at the Heart Stones
Two heart-shaped stones are embedded in the stone pavement inside the garden.
There’s a legend that “touching them will make your love come true,” and they’re a hugely popular power spot for couples and younger visitors.
The locations aren’t deliberately signposted, so try finding them with your own eyes.
5. Cafés and souvenir shops
Stylish cafés and souvenir shops, including the Glover Café, are scattered throughout the grounds.
Along with Nagasaki’s famous castella, original items inspired by Madame Butterfly and four-leaf clover motif goods are also popular.
You can also enjoy souvenir photos in retro-style costume rentals inspired by the settlement era (paid; about 2,000 yen for around 30 minutes and up).
How to Get There
By public transportation
- Tram
- From Nagasaki Ekimae tram stop, take the line bound for “Shōfukuji,” transfer at “Shinchi Chinatown” to the line bound for “Ishibashi,” and get off at “Ōura Cathedral.”
- It’s about a 5–8 minute walk from the stop (fare: 150 yen).
By car
- About 15 minutes from “Nagasaki IC” on the Nagasaki Expressway.
- There are paid parking lots nearby, but they can get crowded, so public transportation is recommended.
How to Enjoy Glover Garden
1. Learn the history
In each residence, you can learn in detail about life in that era and about Glover’s achievements.
Glover is also known for his involvement in founding the predecessor company of Kirin Beer, and the garden includes exhibits related to the origin of the Kirin label.
Through exhibits and explanation panels, explore the history of Japan’s modernization from the late Edo period through the Meiji era.
2. Enjoy the panoramic views
From viewpoint areas in the garden, you’ll get a sweeping panorama of Nagasaki Port with Mount Inasa as a dramatic backdrop.
During the summer-to-autumn evening opening period, illuminated residences and night views are popular with couples and families.
3. Visit the best photo spots
The historic architecture and flower-filled gardens are beautiful from every angle.
Moving walkways and escalators make it comfortable to stroll even on the hilly terrain.
4. Savor local treats
Relax at a garden café while enjoying Nagasaki specialties like castella and milkshake, and take your time soaking in the atmosphere.
Useful Visitor Information
- Opening hours
- Regular hours: 8:00–18:00 (last admission 17:40)
- If evening openings are held, closing time may be extended.
- Admission
- Adults: 620 yen
- High school students: 310 yen
- Elementary and junior high students: 180 yen
- Fees may be revised.
- Facilities
- The garden is barrier-free, with moving walkways, escalators, and wheelchair-accessible routes.
- Multilingual information panels and AR guidance are also available.
- What to wear
- There are many stone paths and steps, so wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Estimated time needed
- One full loop: about 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
- Including cafés and souvenir shops: about 2 hours
- Notes
- Evening openings and event periods can be especially crowded, so arriving early is recommended.
Summary
Glover Garden is one of Nagasaki’s must-see attractions, where you can enjoy World Heritage-listed historic architecture, beautiful gardens, and panoramic harbor views all in one place.
Visit with family, friends, or your partner and spend a special time in a charming, international atmosphere.
By learning the historical background, touring the residences, and hunting for the Heart Stones, you’re sure to find your own favorite way to enjoy the garden.
