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Article

Staff Editor’s Note

Experience the Rich Culture, Nature, and Unique History of Nagasaki and the Goto Islands

Hello everyone! I'm Emily, a member of the Japan Cultural Expo 2.0.

Nagasaki, once Japan's only gateway to the West, boasts a unique culture shaped by its rich history of international trade and strong connections to Asia. Today, I'd like to share a journey exploring Nagasaki's culture and natural beauty.

Chinatown – Nagasaki City

After a 1-hour and 50-minute flight from Tokyo to Nagasaki Airport, we took a bus to the city, eager to try the local specialty, Nagasaki Champon, in Chinatown. This noodle dish, influenced by Chinese cuisine, is a delightful blend of vegetables, pork, and seafood cooked together in a savory broth. Its flavor is distinct from ramen, offering a unique culinary experience.

The "Nagasaki Champon" I ate.

Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum – Nagasaki City

With our appetites satisfied, we headed to the Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum. The museum embodies the concept of a "breathing museum," inviting visitors to experience art from a fresh perspective beyond the conventional boundaries of a gallery. Designed by the renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and NIHON SEKKEI, Inc., walking through this museum allows you to feel the seamless integration of architecture and art. In addition to special exhibits, it houses one of the largest collections of Spanish art in Asia, offering a truly enriching experience.

The Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum, designed by the architect Kengo Kuma and NIHON SEKKEI, Inc. Historical sites such as Dejima are also nearby.
From the rooftop garden, you can enjoy views of Nagasaki's harbor and cityscape, blending seamlessly with the surrounding nature.

Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum

The Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum opened its doors in April 2005 under the concept of a "Breathing Museum." Like a living organism breathing, the museum ...

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To the Goto Islands

The Nagasaki Archipelago is home to numerous islands, and this time, we ventured to the renowned Goto Islands. After spending a night in Nagasaki City, we took a jetfoil from Nagasaki Port to Fukue Island, one of the Goto Islands. The journey flew by as we gazed out at the sea, taking about 1 hour and 25 minutes—so quick! Besides the jetfoil and ferry options, Fukue Island can also be reached by air from Nagasaki or Fukuoka airports.

The Goto Islands are part of Saikai National Park, and their breathtaking natural beauty is truly awe-inspiring.

The island is part of a national park.
The expansive grasslands of Mt. Onidake offer breathtaking panoramic views.
The “Baramon Kite," an ancient tradition on Fukue Island, gracefully soar in the sky.

What stands out the most, though, is the stunning beauty of the beaches! The Goto Islands have even served as the setting for popular manga and anime. It's no wonder many artists have likely drawn inspiration from these stunning views.

Fukue Island's crystal-clear waters
A classic ice cream flavor cherished in the Nagasaki region

Another highlight of Fukue Island is its fresh seafood. If you're an early riser, don't miss the chance to witness the bustling fish market at dawn, along with the beautiful sunrise over the sea.

Fresh seafood from Fukue Island

Program Information

A special program introducing Japan's national parks was broadcast on NHK World JAPAN (jibtv) on September 6, 2024! Video Streaming is also available.
https://biz.jibtv.com/programs/journeys_in_japans_national_parks/20240906.html

Of Seas and Mountains: Journeys in Japan’s National Parks
■ Broadcasting Platform: NHK World JAPAN (jibtv)
■ Broadcast Area: Over 160 countries and regions, reaching more than 300 million households
※ For details on how to watch in your country, please visit the official NHK World JAPAN website.
Ways to Watch: http://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/tv/howto/

Tour Information

https://vividjapan.travel/en/kyushu-okinawa/saikai/

●Access to Nagasaki City and the Goto Islands (from Tokyo)

※ Please note that the jetfoil service may be canceled due to bad weather or strong winds. Regular ferry services also operate between the islands, with travel times ranging from 3 to 4 hours.