Get a Sweet Taste of Tradition at the Matsura Historical Museum

A history of the sugar trade culminates in sure-to-please sweets

The Matsura Historical Museum in Hirado, Nagasaki is a place with one sweet history. Step back in time as you peruse the eclectic collection of samurai armor, pottery, and carefully preserved maps from the collection of the Matsura family, former rulers of northern Nagasaki prefecture with roots extending back to the late 700s. Experience the intersection of peoples and cultures from around the world as you delve into Nagasaki's rich history of international trade, which brought sugar and other luxuries to Japan.

Reflect on Hirado's long history with a stop at the historic Kanuntei Teahouse, where you'll enjoy a cup of hot tea with two types of traditional Japanese confections selected from among the 100 traditional varieties ordered by the Matsura family back in the early 19th century.

This museum isn't stuck in the past, however. In 2017, it hosted a group of Dutch confectioners who joined forces with their Japanese counterparts to create 24 original confections in a celebration of the rich history of the sugar trade; future collaborations may be on the horizon. Guests looking to sample these confections may do so by placing an order in advance.

Come to the Matsura Historical Museum to see history—and stay for a taste of it.

Access: From Hakata Station, take a limited express train to Sasebo Station (about one hour 53 minutes), then take the Saihi Motor bus to the Hirado Sanbashi stop (about one hour 32 minutes). The museum is a five-minute walk from the stop.

Matsura Historical Museum