Exploring the Historical Charms of Nagasaki with Family

Reflections on Nagasaki

As our family trip to Nagasaki draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the profound experiences we’ve shared. Today was a day of immersion, delving deeper into the city’s history and culture, and savoring the last moments of our adventure. It’s amazing how this city, marked by such a tragic past, has managed to rebuild and offer such a rich tapestry of experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Starbucks Coffee - Amu Plaza Nagasaki Honkan 1F shop. While I usually prefer a more traditional Japanese breakfast, Lena was craving something familiar, and Erika always enjoys a good cup of coffee. Energized, we set out to explore Sofuku-ji. This temple, with its vibrant colors and serene atmosphere, offered a moment of peace amidst the bustling city. The architecture was stunning, a testament to the blend of Chinese and Japanese influences that define Nagasaki. I was particularly struck by the intricate details of the main gate and the overall sense of tranquility that pervaded the grounds. Lena, who is studying art history, was captivated by the craftsmanship, taking numerous photos and sketching in her notebook. I could see her enthusiasm mirrored my own passion for history, albeit expressed in different forms.


Explore the serene beauty of Sofuku-ji, a historic Buddhist temple in Nagasaki blending Chinese and Japanese architectural styles.

Next on our itinerary was the Nagasaki City Museum of History and Folklore. This museum provided a comprehensive overview of Nagasaki’s past, from its early days as a trading port to its more recent history. Erika was particularly interested in the exhibits on the Dutch influence in Nagasaki, given her own German heritage. We spent a good few hours wandering through the exhibits, learning about the city’s unique cultural heritage. The museum did an excellent job of presenting the information in an engaging and accessible manner, making it a worthwhile experience for all of us.


Explore the rich history and culture of Nagasaki at the City Museum of History and Folklore, a must-visit for every traveler.

History is not merely a collection of dates and events, but a living narrative that shapes our present and guides our future.

For lunch, we ventured to Hifumitei, a local restaurant known for its traditional Nagasaki cuisine. I was eager to try Champon, a noodle dish that is a local specialty. The restaurant was bustling with locals, which is always a good sign. The Champon was delicious, a flavorful and satisfying meal that provided a glimpse into the culinary traditions of Nagasaki. Erika opted for Sara Udon, another local favorite, while Lena, ever adventurous, tried a seafood dish she had never heard of before. We all agreed that the meal was a highlight of our culinary experiences in Nagasaki.


Discover authentic Japanese regional cuisine at Hifumitei in Nagasaki—where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.

In the late afternoon, we decided to take a break and relax at our hotel, the Richmond Hotel Nagasaki Shianbashi. The central location of the hotel allowed us to easily pop back for a short rest before our final evening activities. I took the opportunity to catch up on some reading, while Erika and Lena enjoyed a relaxing bath. It’s important to have these moments of downtime when traveling, to recharge and reflect on the experiences we’ve had.


Experience comfort and convenience at Richmond Hotel Nagasaki Shianbashi, your ideal base for exploring Nagasaki's rich culture and history.

As evening approached, we made our way to Nagasaki Dejima Wharf for dinner. The wharf offered a lively atmosphere, with numerous restaurants and bars overlooking the water. We chose a restaurant that specialized in fresh seafood, eager to savor the flavors of the sea one last time. The meal was delicious, a fitting end to our culinary journey in Nagasaki. After dinner, Lena wanted to experience the local nightlife, so we headed to Agio Bar&Cafe アージョ. The bar had a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and we enjoyed a few drinks while chatting with the friendly locals. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on our experiences in Nagasaki.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Nagasaki at Agio Bar&Cafe, where cozy ambiance meets expertly crafted cocktails in a lively setting.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced Nagasaki with my family. It’s been a journey of discovery, both historical and personal. I’ve learned so much about the city’s past, its culture, and its people. And I’ve also learned a lot about myself and my family. Traveling together has a way of bringing us closer, of creating memories that will last a lifetime. I am glad that Lena was so eager to come along, and that Erika was so supportive in exploring a place that is so important to me. It makes me happy that they are equally excited about this trip, and that we are making memories together.

Tomorrow, we will be heading back to Germany. While I am looking forward to returning to our home in Heidelberg, I will also miss Nagasaki. It’s a city that has captured my heart, a place that I will always remember fondly. I hope that my blog posts have inspired you to visit Nagasaki and experience its unique charm for yourself. It’s a destination that is well worth the journey.

Before I close, I must admit that I am a little sad that I forgot to pack my Japanese phrasebook and umbrella. It would have been helpful to have these items on hand, especially when trying to communicate with locals and navigating the occasional rain shower. But even without these essentials, we managed to have a wonderful time. It just goes to show that sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones that are unplanned and spontaneous.

And so, with a heavy heart but a grateful spirit, I bid farewell to Nagasaki. It’s been an honor to share my experiences with you. Until next time, happy travels!