Guide
The Nagasaki Museum of History and Culture is a facility established through the cooperation of Nagasaki Prefecture and Nagasaki City, centered on the theme of Nagasaki's "Early Modern International Exchange." Opened in November 2005, the museum is currently managed under a designated management system by a private entity. It offers a deep dive into how Nagasaki once connected with the rest of the world through immersive exhibits and interactive experiences. The facility features several distinct zones, including the History and Culture Exhibition Zone, the Nagasaki Magistrate's Office (Nagasaki Bugyo-sho) Zone, a traditional crafts workshop, a shop, and a restaurant, allowing visitors to experience Nagasaki's history from multiple perspectives.
The central theme of the museum is the history of international exchange in Nagasaki during the early modern period. During the Edo period, Nagasaki served as Japan's precious window to the outside world. The museum provides detailed exhibits on the role of the Nagasaki Magistrate's Office, the influence of foreign envoys, and how the influx of foreign trade and culture shaped the local society. Additionally, visitors can learn about the evolution of local culture through 3D movies that vividly depict Nagasaki's history and various historical documents.
The greatest highlight of the museum is the recreation of historical spaces. In the second-floor "History and Culture Exhibition Zone," visitors can walk through a recreated "Machiya" (traditional merchant house) from the Edo period, featuring seasonal decorations and displays of food culture. In the "Nagasaki Bugyo-sho Zone," live-action skits recreating historical court proceedings are performed on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Furthermore, the museum offers a unique 3D movie experience depicting a year in the life of the Nagasaki Magistrate, featuring the actor Morio Kazama. These elements go beyond simple text and diagrams, providing a visual and tactile way to connect with history.
Because the museum features different traditional displays depending on the season, the scenery changes with every visit. For example, the Machiya corner often features displays aligned with seasonal events such as Tanabata, Obon, or the Nagasaki Kunchi festival. If you visit on a Saturday or Sunday, you can catch the live-action skits of the Nagasaki Magistrate's Office at specific times (11:00, 12:00, 14:00, 15:00, and 16:00). The museum is open until 19:00, making it a great option for a calm evening visit.
The museum offers more than just passive viewing. In the traditional crafts workshop, you can touch upon the local heritage through hands-on activities. The live-action skits held at the Magistrate's Office involve local volunteers and students, bringing the atmosphere of historical trials to life. After the performance, there is often time for commemorative photos. These activities allow visitors to feel the weight of Nagasaki's history and the daily life of the era.
The area surrounding the museum is dotted with other sites related to Nagasaki's history and culture. Nearby landmarks include the former Nagasaki Prefectural Library, the historic Suwa Shrine, and the Nagasaki City Hall. Combining these visits allows for a much broader exploration of the historical aspects of the region.
While the museum is an indoor facility and generally comfortable to navigate, please check for specific photography rules to protect the exhibits. For payments, the ticket counter accepts cash, credit cards, and electronic money. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes as you explore the different zones. English-language guides and information are available, and specialized gallery talks for international visitors may be held (please check the current schedule upon arrival).