How to Walk to Glover Garden in Winter Routes

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Nagasaki travel info.

For current hours, prices, and announcements, start with Nagasaki travel info.

There are two main ways to reach the entrance on foot during the winter months. You can climb the Dutch Slope for a very historic feel during your evening stroll. Both paths are well-lit for the Glover Garden Winter Illumination 2026 event.

Walking through the souvenir street allows you to see local crafts and many festive snacks. Many shops stay open late to welcome visitors during the exciting winter festival season. This route is the most festive way to reach the garden gates during the winter.

• Try the local steamed buns for a warm and very filling winter snack today.
• Look for the colorful glass lanterns hanging from the shop roofs along the way here.
• Buy a small souvenir from the historic shops to remember your Nagasaki winter trip now.

Walking from Ouratenshudo Tram Stop

Take the tram line 5 to the Ouratenshudo stop for easy access to the garden. This is the most popular starting point for those walking to the garden this winter. From the tram stop, follow the clear signs pointing toward the steep and historic hillside.

You will walk past many small shops selling delicious local winter treats to all visitors. Look for the famous Nagasaki sponge cake which is known locally as the sweet Castella. The street is narrow but feels very charming in the cool and crisp evening air.

This path leads you directly past the stunning and historic Oura Catholic Church building in Nagasaki. The church is a UNESCO World Heritage site and looks beautiful when lit at night. Take a moment to admire the architecture before continuing your walk uphill to the garden.

Using the Glover Sky Road Elevator

Walking uphill can be quite tiring for some travelers during the cold winter months here. The Glover Sky Road offers a unique and easy way to climb the steep hill. It is a vertical elevator system built directly into the steep hillside for public use.

Walk to the Ishibashi tram stop to find the entrance to the large hill elevator. Take the large elevator to the very top level of the hill for the garden. From there, you can walk down a gentle slope into the historic garden area easily.

The Sky Road is a great choice if you want to avoid many steep stairs. It is fully accessible for strollers and people with limited mobility during their winter visit. You will see local houses and gardens as you glide up the hill in style.

Safety Tips for Walking in Nagasaki Winter

Winter in Nagasaki is usually mild but the wind can be very cold at night. Temperatures in January 2026 will likely average around 5°C or 41°F in the city. The stone paths can become quite slippery if it rains or snows during your walk.

Dress in warm layers to stay comfortable during your long evening walk to the garden. A windproof jacket is essential for the exposed sections on the windy hilltop area tonight. The Nagasaki Official Tourism Guide provides very accurate daily weather updates for all travelers.

Carrying a small flashlight can be very helpful for the darker side streets in Nagasaki. While main paths are lit, some shortcuts may have much less light for your walk. Winter nights come early in Japan so plan to start your walk by 5 PM.

Arrival at the Winter Illumination 2026

Once you arrive at the gate, you must pay the garden fee to enter inside. Adults pay 620 yen to enter the historic grounds and see the festive winter lights. Check the Glover Garden night opening hours winter 2026 before you start your trip.

The illumination features thousands of bright LED lights across the entire historic park area now. You will see the historic Western-style mansions glowing in the dark night sky in Nagasaki. It is a perfect spot for taking romantic winter photos with your friends and family.

Do not miss the famous heart-shaped stones hidden in the pavement of the garden paths. They are easier to spot when the ground is lit by the festive festival lights. This garden is truly a highlight of the Nagasaki winter season for every single visitor.