Glover Garden, Nagasaki

Nestled on the picturesque hillside overlooking Nagasaki Harbor, Glover Garden stands as a serene testament to the city's rich international heritage. This open-air museum, dedicated to the memory of Scottish merchant Thomas Blake Glover, offers visitors a glimpse into the life of foreigners who contributed to the modernization of Japan during the Meiji Restoration.

Glover Garden was established around the former Glover Residence, the oldest Western-style house surviving in Japan, which has been designated an Important Cultural Asset. Built in 1863, it blends architectural elements from British and Japanese traditions, symbolizing the cross-cultural exchanges that have become a hallmark of Nagasaki's history.

Visitors to the garden can explore a collection of several other historic mansions that have been relocated and preserved here, including the former Ringer House, Alt House, and the old Walker House. These buildings reflect the Western influences that permeated through Japan during the latter half of the 19th century, showcasing a variety of architectural styles and period furnishings that offer a rare window into the past.

Strolling through Glover Garden, one can admire the lush greenery and the harmonious integration of the historic buildings with the natural landscape. The garden provides a panoramic view of the city and the harbor, which is particularly breathtaking during sunset when the soft light bathes the area in a golden hue.

The museum not only celebrates the life and work of Thomas Glover, known for his contribution to the shipbuilding industry and for helping to introduce Western technology to Japan, but also commemorates the broader narrative of international trade and cultural exchange in the region.