Nagasaki, Japan, is a cultural gem on the island of Kyushu.
With influences of Dutch and Portuguese culture from former inhabitation, as well as a strong Japanese heritage, Nagasaki has no shortage of history. Of course, Nagasaki also holds the difficult past of being nuclear bombed in WWII, and it has done an incredible job rebuilding and recovering from such a horrific event. Even if history isn’t your first choice when traveling, be sure to put some of these learning opportunities on your list, along with natural wonders, delicious eats, or a visit to an onsen (hot spring). You will love the rich and layered opportunities that Nagasaki has to offer. Read below and find out about the things to do in Nagasaki, Japan.
1. Experience a taste of the Netherlands at Huis Ten Bosch
You will not believe that you are in Japan when visiting Huis Ten Bosch, a theme park recreating Dutch architecture and culture. The original Huis Ten Bosch, or House in the Woods exists in The Hague, Netherlands, and is one of the official homes of the Dutch monarchs. Hence, this Huis Ten Bosch is meant to emulate a 17th-century Dutch village, complete with canals and historic sites. Enjoy live entertainment, shopping, and restaurants when visiting this unique recreation. A tulip festival in the spring and frequent fireworks cap off the spirit of the Dutch who once lived in Nagasaki.
2. Stay in European-style comfort at Hotel Okura JR Huis Ten Bosch
If you really adore Dutch culture, then stay a bit longer at Huis Ten Bosch’s hotel, Hotel Okura. Luxuriate in the comfort and cleanliness that Hotel Okura provides. Just a five-minute walk from Huis Ten Bosch, enjoy all the activities of the park, then retreat to kick up your feet. Free private parking, international cuisine, and a fabulous breakfast await your stay at Hotel Okura. Additionally, enjoy the unique opportunity to bathe in the on-site public onsen, a sure-fire way to feel the vacation vibes.
3. Explore the stunning Kujuku-Shima Island
Kujuku-Shima Island is a beautiful day trip from Nagasaki that should be on every traveler’s list. Kujuku-Shima literally translates to the 99 Islands although there are really more like 208 islands in this densely populated cluster of Japanese islands. Cruise around the islands, swim or watch dolphins; this is part of the Saikai National Park. Visiting Kujuku-Shima is best during the summer when the clear blue waters beckon and the islands feel subtropical. Check out the 50-minute Pearl Queen Cruise which offers visitors the opportunity to see uninhabited islands that are otherwise difficult to access, operating out of Kujukushima Pearl Sea Resort.
4. Tour the shrines and temples of beautiful Iki Island
The natural beauty and sandy beaches await you at Iki Island, off the coast of Kyushu. Accessible by ferry from Hakata Port, Iki Island holds a certain mystery, punctuated by the shrines and temples on the island. With 150 registered Shinto shrines, originating from the Nara period of Japan, there is no shortage of shrine-visiting to be had. Additionally, seven jizo or Buddhist stone statues, sit on the island, watching over the women and children. Lush and subtropical, the island is full of stunning topography. Be sure to add a visit to Monkey Rock while you are there, which is just as it sounds, and whose stone face is most picturesque during sunset.
5. Discover the tranquil coastlines of Fukue Island
Just so gorgeous, you will have your breath taken away by the beauty of Fukue Island’s coastline, the largest of the Goto Islands. Hilly terrain, churches and temples, as well as beautiful beaches, articulate just why Fukue Island is a must when visiting the Nagasaki region. Port of Fukue has the largest inhabitants in all of the Goto Islands, and it offers hotels, restaurants, and shops to explore. Historical sites from the Edo Period, as well as abundant natural resources, make time spent on Fukue Island relaxing and rejuvenating.
6. Tour the hidden Christian churches of Kashiragashima Island
Known as the Hidden Christian Sites of Nagasaki, and recognized by UNESCO for their historical value, these churches pay tribute to the lesser-known Christian history of Japan. A safe haven for religious persecution after Christianity was banned in the country, this island became the training ground for Catholic preachers. In 1910, this stone church was constructed, built by the devoted parishioners. Tour these still-used churches as you learn more about Japan’s spiritual past.
7. Venture into the Nanatsugama Limestone Caves
Just an hour outside Nagasaki by car, the Nanatsugama Limestone Caves are an unknown destination to most tourists. Tour the caves, expecting some tight spaces and slippery traction, with the walk taking about 20 minutes. A popular fishing destination surrounding the caves, this area is also home to a nearby shrine in tribute to Empress Jingu. You can also tour the caverns externally by way of boat, which can be arranged at Yokubu Port.
8. Discover a slice of Holland at Port Hoorn
If you didn’t get enough of Holland at Huis Ten Bosch, then head to Port Hoorn, Nagasaki’s second Dutch theme park. With a free entrance, it’s easy to get lured into the charm of Port Hoorn, home to 20 shops and restaurants, all Dutch-inspired. Drink a cup of strong espresso at Leo 8 Cafe, or head to the upcoming music event, Sakai Music Festival on September 22nd. This beautifully recreated town will leave you snapping selfies and feeling like you’ve traveled far and wide
9. Feed the capybaras at Nagasaki Bio Park
Though capybaras are native to South America, visiting Nagasaki Bio Park offers the unusual opportunity to see them up close and personal. With about 20 friendly capybaras that love to be scratched on their behinds (see the website for scratching tips), they are unique mammals rarely seen up-close. Each winter, the park puts on a seasonal event where the capybara go to an open-air bath; the animal equivalent to the Japanese onsen. Needless to say, these capybaras are living good.
10. Tour a closed coal mine on Ikeshima Island
Nagasaki sits on a bed of underwater coal that was tapped into when a coal mine opened in 1959. At one point, over 8,000 workers manned the mine which has since been closed. Tour the mine into caverns that once extracted coal, as well as the institutions such as the school that was built for the workers’ children. This is a great exploration of the area’s resources and past, one that is great for the young and old. The mine closed in 2001, and many of the tour guides are actual workers from the coal mine who hold an insider’s knowledge.
Read also: Top 10 things to do in Kanazawa, Japan
from : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-nagasaki-japan-705698.html
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