Exploring the Historical Charms of Nagasaki with Family

Nagasaki's Heights and Rhythms

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the serene beauty of Nagasaki's natural landscape with the vibrant energy of its traditional arts. It was a day that showcased the many facets of this captivating city, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for its history and culture.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Yubatotofunomiseumenohana Merukanagasakiten. The restaurant was known for its unique tofu-based dishes, and Erika was especially excited to try their yuba tofu. The restaurant had a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for a family breakfast. I decided on the miso dengaku, while Lena opted for a beautifully presented parfait. It was a healthy yet indulgent start to our day, setting the tone for exploration and discovery.


Discover the artistry of Japanese cuisine at Yubatotofunomiseumenohana Merukanagasakiten - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off to conquer Mt. Nabekanmuri. The journey involved taking a streetcar and then a rather steep walk uphill, but Erika and Lena were troopers. The air was fresh, and the promise of panoramic views kept us motivated. As we ascended, I couldn't help but reflect on the blend of perseverance and reward, much like the journey of adapting to a new culture in Germany after spending my formative years in Matsumoto.

Reaching Mt. Nabekanmuri Park was like stepping into a painting. The views were simply breathtaking. From the observation deck, we could see Nagasaki Port, the city sprawling below, and even the distant silhouette of Gunkanjima, also known as Hashima Island. The sea breeze was invigorating, and the clear skies allowed for perfect photo opportunities. Erika was particularly thrilled, snapping away with her camera, capturing every angle of the stunning vista. Lena, ever the artist, found inspiration in the landscape, sketching in her notebook. I felt a sense of accomplishment, not just for reaching the summit, but for sharing this incredible experience with my family. It was a moment of pure joy, a memory we would cherish forever.


Explore the serene beauty of Mt. Nabekanmuri Park in Nagasaki, where nature, stunning views, and tranquility await every visitor.

The true beauty of a place lies not only in its physical appearance but also in the stories it holds and the traditions it preserves.

After soaking in the views from Mt. Nabekanmuri, we descended back into the city, our next destination being the Nagasaki Traditional Performing Arts Center. I was eager to learn more about the local arts, and this seemed like the perfect place to do so. The center was built to showcase floats and items used during the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival, a major autumn festival held every year in October. The festival has a rich history, dating back to 1634, and is known for its colorful dances, dragon performances, and elaborate floats. The displays included beautiful costumes, intricate masks, and detailed explanations of the various performances. We learned about the Dragon Dance, which originated in the Chinese community of Nagasaki, and the oranda-manzai, a comic dance that started as a caricature of the Dutch residents of Dejima. Lena was fascinated by the craftsmanship of the floats, while Erika appreciated the historical context of the performances. It was an enriching experience, providing us with a deeper understanding of Nagasaki's cultural heritage. I found myself drawing parallels between the preservation of these arts and my own efforts to preserve historical artifacts in my antique shop in Heidelberg.


Explore the rich cultural heritage of Nagasaki at the Traditional Performing Arts Center, where tradition meets artistry in captivating displays and performances.

In the afternoon, Lena was keen to visit the Sanrio Gift Gate. While I am not the biggest fan of Hello Kitty myself, I could not deny my daughter this wish. The shop was filled with adorable characters and unique souvenirs. Lena purchased a small Hello Kitty charm for her backpack. It was a lighthearted and fun experience, a reminder that even in a city steeped in history, there's always room for a bit of whimsy.


Explore the enchanting world of Sanrio at Sanrio Gift Gate, a delightful gift shop in Nagasaki filled with adorable characters and unique souvenirs.

For lunch, we ventured to Mugal Mahal, an Indian restaurant that came highly recommended. I was initially a bit hesitant, as I usually prefer to immerse myself in local cuisine when traveling. However, Erika and Lena were craving something different, and the reviews were too tempting to ignore. The restaurant offered a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, which was a plus. I opted for the dal tadka curry, while Erika tried the spinach curry. Lena, always adventurous, went for the mixed vegetable dry curry. The food was flavorful and satisfying, a welcome change of pace from our usual Japanese meals. The staff was friendly and spoke English, making the experience even more enjoyable.


Discover authentic Indian cuisine at Mugal Mahal in Nagasaki—where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

As evening approached, we made our way to Osakaya Hamanomachi for dinner. This yakiniku restaurant was known for its high-quality A5-grade Wagyu beef, and I was eager to try it. The interior was elegant and inviting, with private rooms available for a more intimate dining experience. We ordered a selection of rare cuts, including the thick-cut chateaubriand and the black tongue salt. The meat was incredibly tender and flavorful, melting in our mouths with every bite. The service was attentive, and the overall experience was exceptional. It was a perfect way to end our day, indulging in a culinary masterpiece that showcased the best of Nagasaki's cuisine.


Experience top-tier Yakiniku at Osakaya Hamanomachi in Nagasaki—where quality meets tradition in every grilled bite.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Nagasaki Nomozaki Dinosaur Park and Aguri Hill. I am sure we will have another lovely day, filled with beautiful scenery and interesting experiences. I am especially looking forward to the Dinosaur Park, as I think Lena will enjoy it immensely. Erika is excited to see Aguri Hill, as she has heard that it is a beautiful place to take photographs. We might even visit the Lounge Harmony in the evening to relax after a long day of sightseeing.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am struck by the diversity and richness of Nagasaki. From the panoramic views of Mt. Nabekanmuri to the traditional arts of the Nagasaki Kunchi Festival, from the whimsical charm of Sanrio Gift Gate to the culinary delights of Mugal Mahal and Osakaya Hamanomachi, this city has something to offer everyone. It is a place where history and culture blend seamlessly, creating a unique and unforgettable experience. I am grateful for the opportunity to share this journey with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Nagasaki, with its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights, has truly captured my heart. It's a city that invites exploration, encourages discovery, and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. As I prepare for another day of adventures, I am filled with anticipation and excitement for what lies ahead.