Glover Garden

Glover Garden (グラバー園, Glover-en), an open-air museum in Nagasaki, showcases the mansions of former foreign residents from the late 19th century. Nestled on a scenic hill where Western merchants settled after Japan’s isolation era, the garden's highlight is the Former Glover House—the oldest wooden Western-style building in Japan. Thomas Glover, a Scottish merchant who arrived in 1859, played a key role in Japan’s industrialization and supported revolutionaries in the Meiji Restoration. Visitors can explore elegant Western-style residences filled with period furnishings and get a glimpse into the lives of wealthy foreign traders.

Beyond the historic homes, Glover Garden offers breathtaking views of Nagasaki’s harbor and industrial sites. The beautifully maintained grounds feature relocated Western-style buildings, a charming café, and a shop. From the Former No. 2 Dock House, visitors can enjoy a panoramic cityscape while immersing themselves in Japan’s early modernization history. A visit to Glover Garden is a journey through time, blending architectural elegance with stunning scenery.