13.Sites of Japan’s Meiji -Industrial Revolution

Gunkanjima

Gunkanjima’s increase in popularity and status as a World Heritage Site, though, has not been without controversy. What many do not know is that the island has had a history of forced labor—which tour companies don’t mention. Although Gunkanjima currently has no memorials to the victims of forced labor, Japan has pledged to set up a memorial and an information center in the years to come.

Takashima Coal Mine

Developed from 1869, was the first Japanese coalmine to be worked with Western technology. Hokkei Pit on Takashima Island is located 14.5 km offshore from Nagasaki Harbour. This was Japan's first modern coal mine mechanized by steam engines through a joint venture with Thomas B. Glover and later, in 1881, purchased by Mitsubishi.

Mitsubishi Nagasaki Shipyard

The museum is in the Mitsubishi Shipyard and is excellent. The museum covers the entire history of the shipyard and region from the end of the edo period to today.

Glover House and Garden

This garden has been designated as an Important Cultural Asset. Here you can visit the beautiful traditional homes built for British merchants, including the oldest wooden Western-style residence in Japan, built by the Scottish merchant Thomas Glover, who exerted a strong influence on the industrialization of Japan. The Former Glover Residence was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site List in 2015 under 'Sites of Japan's Meiji Restoration: Iron and Steel, Shipbuilding and Coal Mining. The garden is lush with flowers, and has a stunning view of Nagasaki Port. The Christmas illuminations in winter time are also worth to visit.