Nagasaki City
Nagasaki had a manmade little island called Dejima where Japan traded with Portugal and the Netherlands during the period of national seclusion. Here you can find the oldest wooden Western-style building in Japan, once owned by Thomas Glover, the man who laid a foundation for the Japanese shipbuilding industry.
Nagasaki City is a historic and vibrant city located in Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and significant role in world history. Here are some special points about Nagasaki City and how to reach there:
Special Points about Nagasaki City:
Historic Sites: Nagasaki is steeped in history and is famous for its well-preserved historic sites. The Nagasaki Peace Park, built to commemorate the victims of the atomic bomb dropped on the city during World War II, is a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of war. Other historical sites include Glover Garden, Dejima (a former Dutch trading post), and numerous temples and shrines.
Spectacular Views: Nagasaki’s hilly terrain offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding sea. The Nagasaki Ropeway takes visitors to Mount Inasa, known as “Inasayama,” which provides one of the best night views in Japan.
Unique Culture: Nagasaki has a diverse cultural heritage due to its historical interactions with foreign cultures. This is reflected in its cuisine, festivals, and architecture. The Nagasaki Lantern Festival, held annually in February, is a colorful event that celebrates the Chinese New Year.
Meganebashi (Spectacles Bridge): This stone bridge is one of Nagasaki’s iconic landmarks. It earned its name due to the reflection of its arches in the water, resembling a pair of spectacles.
Nagasaki Champon: This is a famous local dish that originated in Nagasaki. It is a noodle soup dish with a variety of ingredients, including seafood, vegetables, and pork.
How to Reach Nagasaki City:
- By Air: The most convenient way to reach Nagasaki City is by air. Nagasaki Airport (NGS) serves domestic flights from major cities in Japan, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to the city center.
- By Train: If you prefer traveling by train, you can take the shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo or other major cities to Hakata Station in Fukuoka. From Hakata, you can transfer to the JR Nagasaki Main Line and take a limited express train to Nagasaki Station.
By Ferry: Nagasaki is also accessible by ferry from various ports in Japan. For example, there are ferries from Osaka and Kagoshima to Nagasaki.
Once you arrive in Nagasaki City, getting around is convenient using public transportation such as trams and buses. Additionally, many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other in the central area.
Nagasaki’s blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty makes it a captivating destination for travelers interested in exploring Japan’s past and experiencing its modern charm.