Nagasaki Chinatown Shinchi Chinatown Great Eats Culture History Shopping

Nagasaki Chinatown, also known as Shinchi Chinatown, is Japan's oldest and most vibrant Chinatown, offering a rich blend of Chinese and Japanese culture, delicious cuisine, and unique shopping experiences. Located in downtown Nagasaki, this historic district is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the city's diverse heritage.

Great Eats

Nagasaki Chinatown is renowned for its Chinese-influenced dishes, which have been adapted to Japanese tastes. Here, you can sample local specialties such as Chanpon and Sara Udon, which are staples of the area's culinary scene.

• Kakuni Manju: These steamed buns are filled with braised pork belly, cooked in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, and sugar. They are a popular street food and a must-try when visiting the area.
• Yori Yori: Also known as "mafa," these are sweet dough treats twisted into a helical shape and deep-fried. They are often found in souvenir stores and make for a delightful snack.
• Goma Dango: These sesame balls are deep-fried rice flour treats filled with sweet red bean paste. They are tricky to cook due to the sesame seeds on the coating, which can burn easily.

Culture

Nagasaki Chinatown's cultural significance is deeply rooted in its history. During Japan's period of isolation, Nagasaki was one of the few ports open to foreign trade, and the Chinese were among the only traders allowed to settle in the city.

• Nagasaki Lantern Festival: This festival, held during Chinese New Year, transforms the city into a magical lantern-lit paradise. It is the largest Chinese New Year celebration in Japan and features thousands of colorful lanterns, processions, and parades.
• Mid-Autumn Festival: Another significant event, this festival attracts visitors to Chinatown and nearby Minato Park for lantern displays, moon cake tastings, shopping, and traditional performances.

History

Nagasaki Chinatown's history dates back to the 17th century when Chinese merchants settled in the area. The district was initially a reclaimed island known as Shinchi, or "new land," where Chinese traders conducted their business.

• Former Chinese Settlement: The area known as Tojin Yashiki retains many signs of the former Chinese settlements, including Chinese-style temples and buildings. This historical area provides a glimpse into the lives of the Chinese residents who once lived there.
• Guardian Gates: The district is marked by four large red gates, each representing one of the four heavenly beasts: the phoenix, white tiger, two-tailed turtle, and blue dragon. These gates are constructed by Chinese craftsmen using materials from Fuzhou.

Shopping

Nagasaki Chinatown offers a variety of shopping experiences, from traditional Chinese goods to local souvenirs.

• Gift Shops: You can find several gift shops selling Chinese nick-knacks, including items like glass dragons and traditional crafts such as bekko, which involves carving intricate items from sea turtle shells.
• Souvenir Stores: These stores offer a range of local specialties, including yori-yori and other sweet treats, making them perfect for picking up souvenirs.

Accessing Nagasaki Chinatown

The district is easily accessible via public transportation. Here are the details:

• Tram Stop: Nagasaki Chinatown is located a short walk from the Shinchi Chinatown (Shinchi Chukagai) tram stop, which is served by tram lines 1 and 5.