Located on the island of Kyūshū, Nagasaki is a port town with steep relief, marked by a complex history and a unique cultural heritage. An ancient point of exchange with the foreigner, a tragic target of the Second World War, and today a crossroads between memories, spirituality and maritime openness, Nagasaki deserves to be retarded in order to better understand certain facets of modern Japan.
A city shaped by international trade
Dejima Island
Dejima was an artificial island built to accommodate Dutch merchants under the Edo era, when Japan was closed to the rest of the world. Today, the site has been carefully restored to reflect its original appearance. Wooden buildings, warehouses and re-enactments offer a dive into 17th-century commercial relations.
Oura Church
Built in 1864 by French missionaries, Oura Church is considered the oldest active Catholic church in Japan. Classified as a national treasure, it bears witness to the Christian presence in the region and the western architecture introduced at the Meiji era.
Dutch Slope
On the heights, Dutch Slope houses ancient residences of foreign merchants built in the 19th century. The cobbled streets, western-style houses and terraced gardens are reminiscent of Nagasaki’s cosmopolitan past.
Nagasaki History Museum
This museum traces the evolution of the city through its international relations. There are commercial objects, diplomatic letters, and testimonies from European missionaries who lived in Japan.
Memory and resilience after the atomic disaster
Peace Park
Located at the epicenter of the explosion of August 9, 1945, this park is a place of collection decorated with sculptures and a monumental statue representing peace. Fountains and gardens symbolize hope and rebirth.
The Atomic Bomb Museum
This museum offers a precise account of the events of the bombing, through photographs, objects distorted by heat, and testimonies of survivors. It also puts the challenges of peace and nuclear disarmament in perspective.
Urakami Cathedral
Urakami was the epicentre of the bombing. Its cathedral, completely destroyed, was rebuilt in the 1950s. It represents both the Christian martyrdom and the reconstruction capacity of the city.
The monument of the 26 Martyrs
This memorial pays tribute to the 26 Japanese Christians and missionaries crucified in 1597. A commemorative statue overlooks the city and recalls the religious persecutions suffered during the isolation of the country.
Traditional neighborhoods and cosmopolitan atmosphere
Chinatown of Nagasaki
One of the oldest Chinese neighborhoods in Japan, with its lanterns, specialized restaurants, and temples. It is a living place, where popular culture, spirituality and gastronomy mix together.
Sofukuji Temple
Built by the Chinese community in the 17th century, this Ming-style Buddhist temple is unique in Japan. Its curved roofs, bright colours and altars make it a landmark site.
Kofukuji Temple
This Zen temple was erected by Chinese monks in 1620. It still retains a peaceful atmosphere in the heart of a residential area. Its wooden entrance and main hall are remarkable.
The Confucian Shrine
Koshi-byō is a shrine dedicated to Confucius, built with materials imported from China. It also houses a small museum on Sino-Japanese history and Confucian thought.
Meganebashi Bridge
Built in 1634, this stone bridge is nicknamed “glass deck” for the shape of its arches reflecting in the Nakashima River. It is considered one of the most beautiful historical bridges in Japan.
Panorama and views of the city
Mount Inasa
Accessible by cable car, bus or car, this summit offers a spectacular panorama of the city, especially at sunset. At night, the illuminated bay is considered one of the most beautiful urban landscapes in Japan.
Gunkanjima Island
Officially named Hashima, this abandoned island off Nagasaki is famous for its industrial ruins. A former mining centre, it is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and accessible by sea excursion.
Cultural events and local atmosphere
Nagasaki Kunchi Festival
Every October, this festival is part of Japan’s intangible cultural heritage and features dances, floating tanks and traditional shows throughout the city centre. It symbolizes the cultural diversity of the city.
Local gastronomy
Nagasaki is known for its fusion dishes. The champon (noodles and seafood), sara udon (crunching noodles), or castella (genoise cake of Portuguese origin) are essential.
Museums and places to visit
The Prefectural Museum of Art
This contemporary museum presents Japanese and European works, with a modern and sober architecture. It also offers temporary exhibitions on contemporary art or regional heritage.
Glover Garden
On a hill overlooking the port, Glover Garden is a museumed park where one can visit 19th century western residences. Thomas Glover, a Scottish merchant, is the best known. The site also offers a magnificent view of the bay.
Exploring Nagasaki is a city that crosses many eras, between maritime routes, ancient spiritualitys, wounds of the 20th century and horizons open to the world. For travelers looking for living history and cultural diversity, Nagasaki offers a dense experience, constantly renewed along its alleyways and panoramas.
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