TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Dutch Slope is a stone-paved slope in the Higashiyamate and Minamiyamate districts of Nagasaki City, and is a typical scenic spot for its exotic cityscape. It got its name from the fact that foreigners (especially Dutch merchants and Westerners) who lived in Nagasaki through Dejima during the Edo period settled in the area. Brick walls, stone walls, and old Western-style houses remain along the road, and its appeal lies in the fact that it gives a sense of the history of Nagasaki as an open port city from the end of the Edo period to the Meiji period. It is also a popular photo spot for cameras and smartphones, and is characterized by its ease in taking photos with the harbor and sea in the background.
Highlights
- Scenes of cobblestones, bricks, and stone walls: The road surface and walls reminiscent of the streets of the time transport walkers to a foreign land.
- Western-style houses (Higashiyamate and Minamiyamate): The neighborhood is dotted with Western-style buildings from the Meiji period and remnants of the former foreign settlement.
- Proximity to Oura Cathedral and Glover Garden: Once you reach the top of the hill, you can access major tourist spots such as Oura Cathedral and Glover Garden.
- Photo spots: Popular spots are the port town scenery seen from the middle or top of the hill, and snapshots that make use of the cobblestones.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Public transportation: From JR Nagasaki Station, take the Nagasaki Electric Tram (streetcar) and get off at the Ouratenshudoshita stop. From the stop, you can walk to the slope. The journey time is about 15 minutes by train and 5-10 minutes on foot (this may vary depending on the line you take and transfers).
- Bus/Car: City loop buses and tourist buses are also available. If you are going by car, the surrounding roads are narrow and parking is limited, so it is convenient to use nearby public parking lots or the parking lot at Glover Garden.
- Walking route: You can also walk from Shinchi Chinatown or Nagasaki Shinchi. It is common to visit this spot together with Glover Garden and Oura Cathedral.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Dutch Slope only: Approximately 15 to 30 minutes, including taking photos
- Including the surrounding area (Oura Cathedral, Glover Garden, Western-style buildings): Approximately 1.5 to 3 hours
Nearby spots
- Oura Cathedral (just a short walk from Oura Cathedral Shita tram stop) — One of the oldest wooden Catholic churches in Japan.
- Glover Garden — A garden that preserves and displays Meiji-era foreign residences. The views and night views are also popular.
- Higashiyamate and Minamiyamate Western-style residential areas - Buildings from the foreign settlement at the time are scattered here and there.
- Shinchi Chinatown — A great place to enjoy food and souvenirs. Combine your sightseeing with other activities within walking distance.
- Dejima, Dejima Wharf, Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum (somewhat far away) — major sightseeing spots in Nagasaki
Things to be aware of (crowding, etiquette, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: There are many visitors during tourist seasons (Golden Week, summer vacation, consecutive holidays, and weekends). The area may also be crowded on cruise ship arrival days.
- Watch your step: the slope is steep and the cobblestones can be slippery in rainy weather. Wear comfortable shoes; some areas may be difficult to navigate with strollers or wheelchairs.
- Street manners: As the area is close to residential areas, please refrain from shouting or littering, and be considerate of homes and living spaces when taking photos.
- Season: In winter, the wind can be strong and the temperature can feel lower. The scenery is even more beautiful during cherry blossom season and autumn foliage season, but it can also get crowded.
