Nagasaki Travel Guide Picturesque and steeped in history

Nagasaki is perfect for golfers with many interests. Off the course, you have plenty to check out—whether it’s learning about the culture or enjoying the outdoors.  

Head to Nagasaki City if you’re looking to experience the rich culture. In the Tera-machi Dori area, you can visit many elaborate temples. One such temple is the Kofukuji Temple, built in the 17th century and Japan’s oldest Chinese temple. Look for its’ brightly-painted red gate—you can’t miss it.

For those looking to enjoy the area’s beautiful weather, head outside the city. The Goto Islands, an area with a long history, is part of Saikai National Park and is perfect for sunbathing and marine sports like snorkeling. Or, try Iki Island for white sand beaches and hours of fishing.

Finally, make sure to visit the Nagasaki Peace Park while in the area. This expansive memorial symbolizing the hope for world peace is erected at the epicenter of the atomic bombing that took place August 9, 1945, during World War II.The park has five zones: the Zone of Hopes, the Zone of Prayers, the Zone of Learning, the Sports Zone, and the Plaza Zone. Points of interest include the Peace Statue, the Fountain of Peace, the Peace Symbols from around the world, and the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum.

Photo: Kaz K https://flic.kr/p/7mZvp

For roughly 200 years, Japan was isolated from the rest of the world due to a foreign relations policy called Sakoku, or ‘closed country’. During this time, Nagasaki was the gateway to the rest of the world. So, unsurprisingly, the prefecture’s cuisine has a lot of domestic and international influence.

A dish that best summarizes this is called shippoku. This banquet-like style offers Chinese, Japanese, and Western delicacies on a circular table for all to share. Top shippoku restaurants also offer you the opportunity to enjoy entertainment by Nagasaki Kenban geisha.

Other regional favorites include sara udon and chanpon. These Chinese-influenced dishes feature noodles with sautéed vegetables and seafood on top. The noodles can be soft or crunchy and can be thin or thick. Sara udon is usually served on a plate, while chanpon is usually served in a bowl of broth.

Photo: Nekotank https://flic.kr/p/bsSGLC

Nagasaki celebrates and remembers its history and culture by holding numerous festivals throughout the year. This means you are very likely to see something special, regardless of when you visit. To start off the (Chinese) New Year, Nagasaki City holds Japan’s largest lantern festival. Over 15,000 lanterns decorate the city from late January to mid-February, and cultural performances take place. Soon after, the little Dutch town of Japan known as Huis Ten Bosch, hosts Japan’s largest tulip festival. The Huis Ten Bosch Tulip Festival takes place from mid-February until mid-April. During this time, you can view multiple varieties and displays of tulips while enjoying this Holland-style theme park. On August 9th, you can pay your respects to the victims of the second atomic bomb at the Nagasaki Peace Memorial Ceremony. Or, you can enjoy fresh sake in a small town called Arie at the Breweries Tour Festival in October.

Photo: Ken Funokoshi https://flic.kr/p/4D5RXB