Nagasaki Prefecture is known for its longstanding history and picturesque slopes. As a multicultural city, Nagasaki Prefecture is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Hidden Christian Sites in the Nagasaki Region and the Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution.

Beyond its reputation as a captivating tourist destination, Nagasaki is renowned for the remarkable resilience demonstrated by its citizens in overcoming the adversities of war. Today, the city stands as a testament to strength and recovery, with a diverse range of enjoyable tourist attractions and vibrant festivals that unfold throughout the year.

Nagasaki's enduring spirit and the ability of its people to transform adversity into a thriving community contribute to the city's unique character and make it not only a fascinating place to visit but also a symbol of resilience and renewal.

Nagasaki Prefecture has a diverse range of tourist attractions waiting to be explored. Key highlights in Nagasaki City include Glover Garden, the Christian landmarks of Oura Church and Urakami Cathedral, and Dejima, offering a glimpse into Japan's isolationist history.

For family-friendly entertainment, Sasebo City is a must-visit. Explore Japan's largest theme park, Huis Ten Bosch, for a delightful experience featuring seasonal flowers, illuminations, and various games.

For a more serene experience, consider a visit to Matsumori Tenmangu Shrine. Just a brief five-minute walk from Suwa Shrine, it offers a quieter atmosphere in a tranquil neighborhood away from bustling crowds.

Don't miss out on shopping and culinary delights. Head to The Hamamachi Shopping Arcade, affectionately known as "The Arcade." This retro-style shopping district is a favorite among Nagasaki residents, offering 100-yen stores, stationery outlets, diverse chain restaurants, second-hand clothing shops, and other typical Japanese stores. It even houses a charming cat café, adding to the unique charm of the area.

Nagasaki Prefecture is one of Japan's regions that has a wide range of captivating festivals that hold great appeal for tourists. Many of these festivals in Nagasaki showcase a unique blend of influences from foreign cultures, adding an extra layer of distinction.

Among the notable celebrations is the Nagasaki Lantern Festival, spanning a vibrant 15-day period during which approximately 15,000 lively lanterns illuminate the city. The festivities also include captivating performances like Jaodori (Dragon Dance) and Lion Dances, reminiscent of the traditional Chinese New Year celebrations.

Additionally, Nagasaki hosts several other noteworthy festivals. One such example is the Nagasaki Kunchi, which has been deeply rooted in tradition since 380 AD. The Shoronagashi Festival involves the reverent worship of ancestral spirits, while the Nomozaki Daffodil Festival takes place at Nomozaki Suisen-no-Sato Park, offering yet another delightful cultural experience.

Nestled in the southern region of Japan, Nagasaki experiences consistently mild weather year-round. However, avoid the drastic weather shifts experienced in Sapporo. Even during the visit in February, the heart of winter, the climate maintained a pleasant ambiance without veering into excessive coldness.

For those in pursuit of ideal weather conditions, planning a visit between October and November is highly recommended. During this span, temperatures are most favorable, and rainfall is minimal, providing an optimal environment for a delightful and comfortable exploration of Nagasaki.

As Nagasaki served as the sole major port for international trade during Japan's isolation period, the local cuisine vividly reflects its rich history of cultural exchange.

For foodies, a delightful range of main dishes awaits, including chanpon—a noodle dish strongly influenced by Chinese flavors. Typically featuring fried seafood, a savory bone broth, and an assortment of vegetables, the dish's delicious taste can satisfy the palate and warm the heart.

Another noodle variation to savor is sara udon, showcasing crispy fried noodles crowned with a mix of meat and vegetables. Additionally, toruko rice featuring breadcrumb-coated pork cutlets drizzled with curry sauce atop rice or spaghetti is also a no-skip!

Snack enthusiasts will enjoy Nagasaki's signature treats, such as Nagasaki castella, introduced by Portuguese missionaries, and Kakuni Manju—a soft bread bun filled with savory pork belly, echoing Chinese culinary influences.