Nagasaki

Nagasaki is a city in Nagasaki Prefecture on the western coast of Kyushu, Japan, at the head of Nagasaki Bay. It lies in a sheltered harbor surrounded by hills and has long served as a gateway for foreign contact, trade, and cultural exchange. The city functions as a regional center for education, industry, and tourism.

Historically, Nagasaki gained prominence in the 16th century with the arrival of Christian missionaries, beginning with Francis Xavier in 1549. Mission activity and Christian communities persisted despite periodic persecution. During the Edo period, Japan’s policy of sakoku limited foreign access, but Nagasaki remained the only port open to limited trade, mainly with the Dutch at Dejima and with Chinese merchants.

On August 9, 1945, Nagasaki was devastated by an atomic bombing. The event caused extensive loss of life and long-term health impacts. In the postwar era, the city was rebuilt and established memorial sites dedicated to peace, including the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum and Nagasaki Peace Park.

Today, Nagasaki is a major port city with industries in shipbuilding, machinery, and services. It preserves a rich historical and cultural heritage, with sites such as Dejima, Oura Church, and Glover Garden reflecting its cosmopolitan past. Nearby attractions include Hashima Island (Gunkanjima), a former coal mining site. The city continues to attract visitors interested in history, culture, and maritime heritage.