What other travelers are saying about Nagasaki Chinatown (Shinchi Chinatown)
My wife and I decided to explore Nagasaki Chinatown from a cruise ship trip. Instead of taking the ship excursion, we went on our own. It was an easy walk from the ship terminal to Nagasaki Chinatown. We bought a pork bun for ¥350 and 3 shumai for ¥300 from a sidewalk vendor and looked at all the other stores and restaurants. It was a fun and easy walking trip and I would recommend it to anyone wanting to explore Nagasaki Chinatown on their own.
Nagasaki Chinatown, or Shinchi Chinatown, is the oldest Chinatown in Japan, established in the 17th century. It originated when Chinese traders settled in Nagasaki during Japan’s period of national isolation (sakoku), as Nagasaki was one of the few ports open to limited foreign trade. The Chinese were confined to a specific district—Shinchi—to control their interactions with locals.
Over time, Shinchi evolved into a vibrant cultural and commercial center, blending Chinese traditions with Japanese influences. Today, it stands as a symbol of Nagasaki’s long history of international exchange and remains a hub of Chinese cuisine, architecture, and festivals—most famously the Nagasaki Lantern Festival.
We visited Nagasaki in October and stayed in a hotel just outside Chinatown. At nighttime, you can see all the pretty lights. But most of the shops were closed when we walked through one Friday night. Even some of the restaurants were closed by 8pm.
Walking through the practically deserted streets was a bit eerie (although you don't feel unsafe).
Various shops and places to have a snack. We took Tram No1 from the Nagasaki Peace Museum and headed back to the Port but stopped off here in Chinatown then walked for 10 mins or so back to the ship
As a tourist visiting Shinchi Chinatown in Nagasaki, I found it to be an enchanting and culturally immersive experience. Walking through the grand Chinese-style gates and into the narrow streets filled with vibrant lanterns was like stepping into another world. The blend of Japanese and Chinese architecture, coupled with the aroma of sizzling dishes, immediately draws you in.
The food here is incredible. I had the chance to try Nagasaki Champon, which is a delightful mix of noodles, seafood, and vegetables in a rich broth. The balance of flavors was both comforting and unique, reflecting the fusion of Chinese and local ingredients. I also sampled Sara Udon, a crispy noodle dish topped with a savory sauce and vegetables—it was a perfect blend of textures. Whether you're dining at a small street stall or one of the more established restaurants, the food is a highlight not to be missed.
What truly made my visit memorable was the cultural richness of the place. I was fortunate enough to be there during the Nagasaki Lantern Festival, where thousands of lanterns illuminated the streets. The festive atmosphere, along with traditional performances, made it a captivating experience.
Shinchi Chinatown is more than just a tourist destination—it’s a celebration of history, culture, and food. For any visitor to Nagasaki, it's a must-see, offering a charming mix of culinary delights and cultural heritage.
