Nagasaki

Nagasaki Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum form a poignant space of memory and reflection, dedicated to the victims of the atomic bombing of August 9, 1945. Visiting this site is a profound and essential experience for understanding a key part of contemporary Japanese and world history. Peace Park is built near the epicenter of the explosion. At its center stands the 10-meter-tall Statue of Peace, with its right arm pointing to the sky as a warning of the destructive power of nuclear weapons, and its left arm extended in a sign of peace. Surrounding it are gardens, sculptures, and monuments donated by different countries as symbols of solidarity and hope. Adjacent to the park, the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum offers a striking and educational exhibition. Through photographs, real objects, survivor testimonies, and reconstructions, the museum shows the devastating effects of the bomb and the path toward reconstruction and peace. This memorial complex not only honors the victims, but also conveys a powerful message of universal peace, making Nagasaki a symbol of the global desire for a world without nuclear weapons.

Glover Garden is one of Nagasaki's most iconic sites, both for its historical significance and its scenic beauty. Located on a hill with spectacular views of Nagasaki Bay, this garden houses a collection of 19th-century colonial houses, testaments to the city's international past. The main attraction is the Glover Residence, the oldest surviving Western house in Japan. It was built in 1863 for Thomas Blake Glover, a Scottish merchant who played a key role in Japan's modernization during the Meiji period. Its history is closely linked to the country's industrialization and its opening to trade with the West. The park combines European architecture, manicured gardens, and charming paths that invite you to stroll while enjoying the harbor views. It is also a location frequently associated with the opera Madama Butterfly, which has become a romantic and symbolic site for many visitors. Glover Garden is ideal for a relaxing cultural visit, with photo opportunities, a glimpse into Japan's international past, and one of the best panoramic views of Nagasaki.

Ōura Church, located in the city of Nagasaki, is the oldest surviving Christian church in Japan. Built in 1864 by French missionaries, it was dedicated to the 26 Christian martyrs executed in Nagasaki in 1597. Today it is officially known as the Basilica of the Twenty-six Martyrs of Japan. This neo-Gothic church is one of Nagasaki's most important historical and cultural symbols. Its white façade, stained-glass windows imported from Europe, and hilltop location give it a unique character. From its esplanade, you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city's port. Ōura Church is also known as the site of the discovery, in 1865, of the "Hidden Christians," who had kept their faith secret for over 250 years during the persecution of Christianity in Japan. Declared a National Treasure and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ōura Church is a must-see for those who wish to learn about the history of Christianity in Japan and the multicultural legacy of Nagasaki.