This walking route links Glover Garden (8-1 Minamiyamate-machi) to the Dutch Slopes in Higashiyamate-machi, both within Nagasaki's former foreign settlement district. The trailhead is reached via Tram Line 5 to the Oura Tenshudo-shita stop; no permit is required, though Glover Garden charges a small entrance fee of around ¥620 ($4). The route covers 2.5 km with about 50 meters of elevation gain over undulating hillside terrain, an easy walk suitable for all fitness levels. The surface is mostly paved stone steps and cobbled slopes through the former settlement, well shaded by mature trees in places and open along garden terraces with harbor views. Landmarks along the way include Glover Garden's preserved 19th-century foreign merchant mansions, Oura Catholic Church partway along the route, and the Dutch Slopes' cobblestone streets and Meiji-era foreign residences near the end. There are no water sources along the route beyond vending machines at Glover Garden's entrance and near the Dutch Slopes; restrooms are available at both ends of the walk.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Minami-Yamate
- Best season
- Year-round; spring and autumn especially pleasant
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Camera
Location
Start: Glover Garden (8-1 Minamiyamate-machi); End: Dutch Slopes (Higashiyamate-machi)
32.7393, 129.8697 View on map
Highlights
- Glover Garden's preserved 19th-century foreign merchant mansions
- Oura Catholic Church, one of Japan's oldest surviving churches
- Dutch Slopes' cobblestone streets and colonial-era buildings
- Panoramic harbor views from the garden terraces
Tips for visiting
- Visit early morning to avoid tour bus crowds at Glover Garden
- Wear comfortable shoes; stone steps and slopes run throughout the route
- Combine the walk with a stop at Oura Catholic Church along the way
- Spring or autumn offers the mildest temperatures for the uphill sections
When to visit
Spring and autumn mornings offer mild temperatures and fewer tour groups than midday visits.
Accessibility
Glover Garden includes escalators that make the initial ascent wheelchair accessible, but the Dutch Slopes' cobblestone streets and stairs beyond the garden are not wheelchair accessible.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee?
Glover Garden charges an entrance fee of around ¥620 ($4); the Dutch Slopes area itself is free to walk.
Is the route wheelchair accessible?
Glover Garden has escalators for its initial slopes, but the Dutch Slopes beyond the garden are not wheelchair accessible.
How long does the full walk take?
About 1 to 1.5 hours including stops at the main sights.
Is the walk suitable for families?
Yes, the gentle slopes and frequent photo opportunities make it popular with families.