Nagasaki Museum of History & Culture

In Nagasaki, I’ve gained more insight into Japanese history than in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Nara. This is likely because, for centuries, Nagasaki served as Japan’s gateway to the world, playing a pivotal role in shaping the nation into what it is today.

The museum itself, along with its collection of artifacts, is in pristine condition. Unfortunately, most of the information is only in Japanese, with limited English explanations. However, they do provide an English leaflet that is quite informative.

The highlight of my visit was the Government section, where I watched a reenactment of a 19th-century trial performed by museum staff (Sundays at 1:30 pm). Eight of these reenactments are recorded and available on a large screen, each with English subtitles. Watching these brought me closer to the spirit of Nagasaki and Japan during the Edo period (under the shogunate).

The museum staff are kind and professional, doing everything they can to ensure you have a rewarding visit.