Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown Travel Guide

Demarcated by four traditional gates each watched by its own guardian animal statue, this vibrant block of Nagasaki City is the oldest Chinatown in Japan This fact comes as no surprise, seeing as this city was Japan’s only gateway for Chinese traders for centuries. The area actually started out as an artificial island, segregated off for the Chinese merchants, but over the following centuries became connected to the mainland and integrated into the city proper.

Nagasaki’s local cuisine has benefited massively from its Chinese influence, and where better to try the fantastic fusion dishes than the place they were first developed? Swing by Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown for a hearty plate of sara udon or champon.

If you’re visiting during the Lunar New Year, then you’ll be able to see Nagasaki Chinatown at its brightest. Thousands of paper lanterns are lit during the Nagasaki Lantern Festival to commemorate the Chinese New Year, filling the small neighborhood with a rainbow of vibrant colors.