Nagasaki is a city with a rich international history. It was Japan's second city to open up to global trading, and the country's only port for international trade from 1639 until 1859 under the direction of the Tokugawa Shogunate.
The Nagasaki Tall Ships Festival began back in 2000, as a way to celebrate the long history of trading between Japan and The Netherlands. During the festival dates, Nagasaki Harbor will be home to numerous tall ships with their trademark white sails. Visitors to the festival will be able to explore the ships up close, and enjoy a range of other activities around the Nagasaki Seaside Park.
In the evenings, the tall ships will be illuminated, and there will also be fireworks displays once the sun goes down.
Getting there
To enjoy the Nagasaki Tall Ships Festival, take the tram to Dejima Station, and walk towards the Dejima Wharf area. The festival is held at the Nagasaki Seaside Park, which is approximately five minutes away on foot.
Kim Bergström @kim.b
Almost 12 years living in Asia. Passionate about Japan's off-the-beaten-path spots, family-friendly travel, flower events (all of them!) and the amazing tea culture here. 🍵🌼🌸
