Matsura Museum

Matsura Historical Museum (松浦史料博物館, Matsura Shiryō Hakubutsukan) is situated on a picturesque hillside that offers stunning views of Hirado Port. The museum is housed in the former residence of the Matsura Clan, who ruled Hirado for nearly 800 years, from the 11th to the 19th century. This residence, originally built during the Kamakura Period (1192 - 1333), functioned as both the family home and the administrative center of the region. The building has undergone several reconstructions over the centuries, and the current structure, which dates back to 1893, was donated to the prefecture in 1955 along with a vast collection of family heirlooms, offering a fascinating window into Japan’s feudal past.

Inside the museum, visitors can discover a wide array of treasures, including grand samurai armor, intricately designed lacquerware, and heirlooms that narrate the Matsura Clan's significant role in international trade. The museum also showcases a collection of historical maps, documents, and ship diagrams that detail the clan's interactions with foreign traders, shedding light on the global connections that shaped the region's history. Outside, the tranquil gardens provide a serene space for reflection, and visitors can enjoy a traditional matcha tea set at the Kanuntei tea house. For those looking for a unique souvenir, the museum’s café and gift shop offer a variety of locally inspired items, perfect for remembering your visit to this historic site.