Nagasaki Kunchi Festival

The Nagasaki Kunchi (長崎くんち) is an annual festival held from October 7-9 at Suwa Shrine in Nagasaki, celebrating over 400 years of tradition. The festival blends influences from both Chinese and Dutch cultures, reflecting the diverse history of the city. Named after "ku-nichi" (the 9th day of the 9th month in the lunar calendar), this vibrant event features dance performances, dragon dances, and grand floats shaped like ships. Each of Nagasaki’s districts performs once every seven years, ensuring the festival remains exciting and fresh for returning visitors.

Performances take place at four main venues: Suwa Shrine, Otabisho, Yasaka Shrine, and Chuo Koen. While some performances are calm and graceful, others are lively and dramatic. Tickets for paid seating are hard to obtain, as they sell out quickly, but spectators can still enjoy the performances at some free areas, such as Kamome Hiroba plaza and along the streets where dancers and floats travel. Festival schedules in both Japanese and English are available at local tourist information centers and hotels, ensuring visitors don’t miss out on the action.