Nagasaki: Oura Cathedral & Glover Garden Heritage Walk

Nagasaki , Japan

Nagasaki: Oura Cathedral & Glover Garden Heritage Walk

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About this experience

Explore Nagasaki’s rich tapestry of faith and transformation on this guided walking tour. Discover the unique intersection of Japanese tradition and global history as you visit Oura Cathedral, Japan's oldest Christian church, and Glover Garden, where Western architecture tells stories of modernization. Traverse the city's distinctive hillside landscape, where a shrine, a Buddhist temple, and a Christian church coexist within view, showcasing the religious diversity of Nagasaki. This tour offers two participation options to suit different travel styles, ensuring a meaningful exploration of this historic city.

- Delve into Nagasaki's history of faith and resilience at Oura Cathedral
- Enjoy an insightful walk through the hillside neighborhoods and gardens
- Choose from two starting options: direct from Stone Bridge or via tram from Nagasaki Station
- Experience a blend of cultural heritage and modern influences in Glover Garden

Available options

Nagasaki: Oura Cathedral & Glover Garden Heritage Walk

Starting point:<br/>石橋ミニ広場, 1-1 Aioimachi, Nagasaki, 850-0922, Japan

Nagasaki Station departure

Nagasaki Station departure<br/>Starting point:<br/>Lawson Nagasaki station street, Japan, 850-0057 Nagasaki, Daikokumachi, 7７さだずみビル

What's included

Visit to Glover Garden

Guided walking tour

Visit to Oura Cathedral

Detailed itinerary

Oura Cathedral is Japan’s oldest surviving Christian church and one of Nagasaki’s most historically significant landmarks. Built in the 19th century soon after Japan reopened to the world, the cathedral is closely connected to the dramatic history of Christianity in Japan, including centuries of persecution and the later rediscovery of believers who kept their faith in secret. With its elegant Western-style architecture and powerful historical context, Oura Cathedral offers visitors a rare opportunity to encounter a chapter of Japanese history shaped by faith, resilience, and international exchange.

Glover Garden is a hillside open-air museum overlooking Nagasaki Harbor, showcasing beautifully preserved Western-style residences from the late 19th century. The site reflects Nagasaki’s role as Japan’s gateway to international trade and modernization during the Meiji period. Among the highlights is the former residence of Thomas Glover, a Scottish merchant associated with the introduction of new technology and industry to Japan. Walking through the gardens, visitors can experience the atmosphere of early modern Japan and gain insight into how global connections reshaped daily life, architecture, and the city’s identity.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Transportation to the starting point

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

If you select the “Nagasaki Station departure option,” the meeting point is in front of Lawson Nagasaki Ekimae-dori Store.
Your guide will be waiting with a yellow signboard. Please refer to the map for details.

About Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a port city on the northwest coast of Kyushu, Japan's southernmost main island. Known for its rich history, vibrant international culture, and tragic past as the second city to suffer an atomic bombing, Nagasaki offers a unique blend of historical sites, scenic beauty, and cultural diversity. The city is also famous for its annual Nagasaki Kunchi festival and its role as a gateway to China and Korea during the Edo period.

Top Attractions

Atomic Bomb Museum

The Atomic Bomb Museum in Nagasaki is a poignant and educational experience, offering insights into the devastating impact of the atomic bombing in 1945. The museum houses artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that highlight the human cost of nuclear war.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥200

Nagasaki Peace Park

Nagasaki Peace Park is a serene and symbolic park dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing. The park features a large peace statue, a fountain, and a variety of memorials that serve as a reminder of the importance of peace.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Glover Garden

Glover Garden is a historic hillside park featuring a collection of Western-style buildings from the 19th century. The park is named after Thomas Blake Glover, a Scottish trader who played a significant role in the modernization of Japan.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥620

Dejima

Dejima is a man-made island in Nagasaki Harbor that served as a trading post for the Dutch during the Edo period. The island is now a historical site with well-preserved buildings and exhibits that offer insights into Japan's early interactions with the Western world.

Historical 1-2 hours ¥650

Nagasaki Chinatown

Nagasaki Chinatown is one of the largest Chinatowns in Japan, featuring a vibrant mix of Chinese culture, cuisine, and architecture. The area is known for its bustling streets, colorful buildings, and delicious Chinese food.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore, cost varies for food and shopping

Mount Inasa

Mount Inasa is a popular spot for its stunning panoramic views of Nagasaki. The mountain is easily accessible by ropeway and offers a breathtaking view of the city, especially at night when the city lights create a mesmerizing scene.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥1,100 round trip for the ropeway

Must-Try Local Dishes

Champon

A hearty noodle dish featuring a variety of seafood, vegetables, and pork in a rich, creamy broth. It's a popular comfort food in Nagasaki.

Dinner Contains seafood and pork

Sara Udon

A cold udon noodle dish topped with a variety of raw seafood, vegetables, and a tangy sauce. It's a refreshing and flavorful dish.

Dinner Contains seafood

Castella

A moist and fluffy sponge cake with a rich, honey-like flavor. It's a popular souvenir from Nagasaki.

Dessert Contains eggs and wheat

Shumai

Steamed dumplings filled with a mixture of pork, shrimp, and vegetables. They are a popular street food in Nagasaki.

Snack Contains pork and shrimp

Popular Activities

Hiking in Mount Inasa Exploring Gunkanjima Visiting Unzen Volcanic Area Relaxing in hot springs Strolling through Glover Garden Enjoying the views at Nagasaki Peace Park Exploring Nagasaki Chinatown Visiting historic sites like Dejima

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is less crowded during these periods, and the cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn add to the scenic beauty.

10°C to 25°C 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English, Chinese
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

JST (GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Nagasaki is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, travelers should take standard precautions to ensure their safety and well-being. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxis and tour services

Getting there

By air

Nagasaki Airport • 3.7 km from city center
Sasebo Airport • 30 km from Nagasaki city center

By train

Nagasaki Station

By bus

Nagasaki Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is a convenient and scenic way to get around Nagasaki. It offers a nostalgic experience with vintage trams.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Nagasaki City Center Minami-Yamate Nagasaki Chinatown Dejima Urakami

Day trips

Gunkanjima (Battleship Island)

15 km from Nagasaki • Half day to full day

Gunkanjima, also known as Battleship Island, is a deserted island that was once a thriving coal mining community. The island is now a popular tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into Japan's industrial past and the harsh living conditions of its residents.

Huis Ten Bosch

30 km from Nagasaki • Full day

Huis Ten Bosch is a Dutch-themed park featuring a variety of European-style buildings, gardens, and attractions. The park is designed to resemble a traditional Dutch village and offers a unique and charming experience for visitors.

Unzen Volcanic Area

50 km from Nagasaki • Full day

The Unzen Volcanic Area is a stunning natural landscape featuring active volcanoes, hot springs, and scenic hiking trails. The area is known for its dramatic volcanic activity and the tragic story of the Dutch traders who were killed by a volcanic eruption in the 18th century.

Festivals

Nagasaki Kunchi Festival • Early October Nagasaki Lantern Festival • February Nagasaki Hibiscus Festival • Late July to early August

Pro tips

Visit the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park for a poignant and educational experience
Try local specialties like Champon, Sara Udon, and Castella
Explore Nagasaki Chinatown for a vibrant and delicious cultural experience
Take a day trip to Gunkanjima (Battleship Island) for a unique and historic adventure
Visit Glover Garden for a scenic and historic experience