Dejima Island

Dejima Island stands as one of Japan's most historically significant sites, located in Nagasaki Harbor. This small fan-shaped artificial island served as Japan's sole window to the Western world during the over 200 years of national isolation under the Tokugawa shogunate from 1641 to 1854. Originally constructed in 1636 to confine Portuguese traders, it later became the exclusive Dutch trading post in Japan, measuring just 120 meters long and 75 meters wide.

The island's cultural significance extends far beyond its modest size. During Japan's sakoku (closed country) period, Dejima functioned as the primary conduit for Western science, medicine, technology, and culture to enter Japan. Dutch merchants, physicians, and scholars stationed here introduced innovations ranging from medical practices to Western paintings and clocks. The knowledge exchanged on this tiny island profoundly influenced Japan's modernization and its eventual opening to the world in the mid-19th century.

Today, Dejima has been meticulously restored as an open-air museum featuring 25 reconstructed buildings that recreate the island's appearance during the late Edo period. Visitors can explore authentic reproductions of merchant residences, warehouses, and administrative buildings furnished with period-appropriate items. The Chief Factor's Residence showcases how Dutch traders lived and conducted business, while exhibition halls display artifacts including Dutch documents, trade goods, and scientific instruments. Interactive displays and multilingual audio guides help bring the historical atmosphere to life, allowing visitors to understand daily life during this unique period of cultural exchange.

The site is easily accessible from Nagasaki Station, approximately 1.5 kilometers away. Visitors can reach Dejima by taking tram line 1 to Dejima stop, which takes about 5 minutes. Alternatively, it's a pleasant 15-minute walk through downtown Nagasaki. Admission costs ¥520 for adults, with discounted rates for students and children. Allow approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the reconstructed buildings and exhibitions.