Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown

Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown (長崎新地中華街, Nagasaki Shinchi Chūkagai) is Japan's oldest Chinatown and a vibrant district in the heart of Nagasaki. The area, once a reclaimed island, is now a lively neighborhood filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural sites. This Chinatown is a great place to enjoy Nagasaki’s famous dishes, like Chanpon and Sara Udon, which were influenced by Chinese cuisine. Visitors can stroll through the narrow lanes, where Chinese-style temples and buildings add to the atmosphere, while a large Chinese-style gate marks the district's entrance.

The history of Chinatown dates back to Japan's era of isolation when Nagasaki was the only port open to foreign trade. Chinese merchants were allowed to trade alongside the Dutch, and Chinatown was initially created for them. During the Chinese New Year, the district comes alive with the Nagasaki Lantern Festival, a dazzling event that lights up the streets with thousands of colorful lanterns. The festival typically occurs between late January and early March, drawing crowds from all over.