Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Dejima is an artificial island in Nagasaki City, known as the only place permitted to trade with foreign countries during the Edo period (from the 17th century onwards) under the isolationist policy. The Dutch Trading Post (VOC) was established here, and it served as a gateway for Western culture, academics, medicine and technology to be introduced to Japan. Today, after reclamation and changes, it is connected to the mainland, but efforts to preserve and restore the historic site have been made, and it has become a tourist facility where you can learn about the history of exchanges with the rest of the world through buildings and exhibits that recreate the townscape of the time. The island's major attractions are its blend of Japanese and Western architecture, restored port facilities, and the opportunity to experience the role Dejima played in diplomacy and trade.
Highlights
- Dejima Main Gate and Reconstructed Buildings on the Island: The entrance to Dejima and part of the Dutch trading post have been restored. You can experience the atmosphere of the time while walking through the streets of the era of foreign exchange.
- Exhibition room (museum): Introduces the history of Dejima and the influence of Dutch culture through materials such as trade goods, maps, letters, and medical equipment. Explanations are often provided in both Japanese and English.
- Display of real and restored items: You can see items that were passed down through Dejima, such as ceramics, glassware, medicines, and botanical atlases (materials related to Dutch studies).
- Experiences and Events: Guided tours, exhibitions of restored costumes, special exhibitions, history lectures, etc. (held depending on the season).
- Canal and harbor scenery: This is a photogenic spot with the restored stonework, moat, and nearby waterfront.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest tram:The nearest station is "Dejima" on the Nagasaki Electric Tramway (streetcar), making it convenient for travel from the city center.
- JR:It is about a 5-10 minute tram ride from JR Nagasaki Station, or about a 20 minute walk (although it is quite a distance).
- From the airport:From Nagasaki Airport, take the limousine bus or express bus to JR Nagasaki Station, then take the tram or taxi from the station.
- car:Paid parking is available in the vicinity (limited spaces). It tends to get crowded during the tourist season, so we recommend using public transportation.
- On foot:It is close to Nagasaki city's major tourist spots (Chinatown, Dejima area, Meganebashi area), so it is easy to plan a sightseeing route on foot.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Observation only: Approximately 45 to 60 minutes (to have a quick look at the exhibits)
- Take your time to view the exhibits, guided tours, and special exhibitions: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Local sightseeing (including Chinatown and small art museums): Half-day to full-day course
Nearby spots
- Shinchi Chinatown (Shinchi Chinatown): Chinatown is within walking distance, where you can enjoy gourmet food and souvenirs.
- Meganebashi Bridge: A historic stone bridge in Nagasaki city. A popular tourist spot.
- Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum: A modern building with a seaside location. There are also many special exhibitions.
- Glover Garden and Oura Cathedral: A tourist spot where you can experience Western-style architecture and the history of Nagasaki. Accessible on foot or by tram from Dejima.
- Peace Park and Atomic Bomb Museum: A facility where you can learn about Nagasaki's modern history (somewhat far away, but easily accessible by public transportation).
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion:It gets especially crowded during Golden Week, summer vacation, consecutive holidays, and weekends. If you want to take a leisurely tour, weekday mornings are the best time to go.
- Handling and photography of exhibits:Many of the exhibits in the museum are forbidden to be touched, and there are also areas where photography is prohibited. Please follow the instructions.
- Shoes/Steps:The restored building has some uneven areas and dirt floor-like areas, so please be careful where you step. There may be some restrictions on movement with strollers and wheelchairs. Please check the official website in advance for barrier-free access information.
- climate:Nagasaki has a maritime climate, with cold winds in the winter and heavy rainfall during the rainy season and typhoon season. Be sure to keep the weather in mind when visiting outdoor attractions.
- Business hours and closing days of nearby facilities:The exhibits, opening hours, and admission fees are subject to change, so please check the official website or tourist information for the latest information before visiting.
(Additional Information) For more detailed information on opening hours, admission fees, special exhibition information, and whether guided tours are available, please check the official Dejima website or Nagasaki City tourist information.
