What other travelers are saying about Unzen Vidro Art Museum
During a trip to Unzen, my wife and I visited the Vidro Museum, which is a visual treat for the eyes as it has an interest in Western antiques and also has a collection of Tiffany lamps. The building is a magnificent Western-style building. The first floor is a free souvenir corner with stand glasses, glass ornaments, accessories, and lamps. Photography is allowed. The second floor is the exhibition area, where photography is not permitted. Following the route, we first came across the aristocratic rooms, including the Gustav Room, the Baron Room, and the Rothschild Room. We were awed by the opulent furnishings. Next, we saw countless lamps, goblets, vases, and other items, all of which were intricately and delicately decorated. On our way back, we bought a pair of glassworks from the souvenir corner as a memento of our trip. We had a very worthwhile time.
It was my first time trying it!
There was such a wide variety of straps, accessories, and pendants that it was hard to choose, and it was so much fun ♪
This is a wonderful museum with antique exhibits and a building like no other.
You might think it's a glass museum, but it's not just glass, it's also filled with historical glass art in general.
There are far more rooms and exhibits than I expected, so I think it's a must-see for glass and antique lovers.
The antique glass is beautiful. It was on display under a light, probably for preservation reasons, but I would have liked to see it in bright sunlight.
I used to use the hot springs a lot when my children were small, but I was surprised at how quickly time passed when I heard that it had been over 10 years since the bathing facilities were closed. 😅
I used the facility for a glass craft experience. I read online that reservations were required, but even though it was a public holiday, there was no waiting time and I was able to try it out.
The staff were kind and polite, and the price was reasonable, so I hope more people will use it.
The museum's collection of over 1,000 pieces includes ancient Roman glass, 19th-century European decorative glass, and contemporary Japanese glass art. The exhibitions showcase both the historical development of glassmaking techniques and modern artistic interpretations, with rotating special exhibitions that complement the permanent collection.
Yes, the museum offers hands-on glass-blowing workshops and other craft experiences where visitors can learn basic glassmaking techniques under instructor guidance. Workshop fees are separate from general admission and vary depending on the type of activity selected. These experiences typically need to be booked in advance.
Direct buses operate from Nagasaki city center to Unzen, taking approximately 90 minutes. Alternatively, visitors can take a train to Isahaya Station on the JR Nagasaki Main Line, then board a Shimabara Railway bus to Unzen, which takes about 80 minutes. The museum is located within the Unzen hot spring district.
The museum is situated in the Unzen-Amakusa National Park and is a short walk from Unzen Jigoku (Unzen Hell), a geothermal area featuring volcanic hot spring vents, steaming fumaroles, and bubbling sulfur pools. The surrounding area also contains numerous hot spring hotels and ryokan, making it easy to combine cultural and natural experiences in one visit.
A typical visit requires approximately one to two hours to view the permanent and temporary exhibitions. If you plan to participate in a glass-making workshop or spend time in the café and museum shop, you should allow additional time. Many visitors combine the museum with other attractions in the Unzen area for a full day trip.
