Nagasaki Lantern Festival: Celebrate Chinese New Year in Nagasaki
- Narelle Katsumoto
- 2月19日
- 読了時間: 4分
When people hear the word “Chinatown,” most people would immediately think of Yokohama. But did you know there is also a strong Chinese influence further south in Kyushu? Yes, you can find it in the heart of Nagasaki Prefecture.
Every year during the Lunar New Year, many areas around Nagasaki City turn into a festive sea of red and yellow. Beautiful lanterns hang above shopping streets, parks, and temples, glowing through the night as the air fills with the delicious aroma of Chinese street food from long-established local restaurants.
This vibrant celebration, known as the Nagasaki Lantern Festival (長崎ランタンフェスティバル), lasts for 18 days. This year, it runs from February 6th to February 23rd. With about 15,000 lanterns of all shapes and sizes lighting up places like Nagasaki Shinchi Chinatown, Hamamachi’s Sightseeing Street Arcade, and Central Park, visitors can take a moment to soak in the rich Chinese culture the city takes pride in.
Nagasaki’s deep ties with China
Nagasaki City has had a centuries-long relationship with China. During the mid-Muromachi period, Chinese traders dominated trade throughout Kyushu. However, in 1635, the Shogunate restricted trade exclusively to Nagasaki. This policy led many Chinese merchants to settle in the city, and it eventually became the center of Chinese trade in Japan.
By the Edo period, these merchants and their families had moved from an international settlement into what was once a warehouse district. That area is now known as Chinatown.
With such a long-standing relationship, it was only natural for the city to adopt the culture and customs of its Chinese residents, including celebrations for the Lunar New Year. This is how the Nagasaki Lantern Festival was born.
Originally, the event was much smaller and was called the “Shunsetsu Festival,” or simply the Chinese New Year Festival. But that changed in 1994, when city officials took a bold step and expanded it into the grand Nagasaki Lantern Festival we know today, extending the celebration across downtown and drawing more visitors year after year.
Exciting Event Highlights and Activities
Lantern Lighting Nagasaki Lantern Festival
The festival begins each evening at 18:00 when the lanterns are lit. From that moment, the city glows with lanterns inspired by dragons, goldfish, historical figures, and more. These lanterns remain lit until the end of the Lunar New Year.
Dates: February 6th to February 23rd
Time: 17:00–22:00 (until 21:00 on the last day)
A lantern flying event is also held on February 7th, though it may change depending on weather conditions.
Emperor’s Parade
One of the festival’s main highlights is the Emperor’s Parade. Inspired by Qing Dynasty New Year traditions, it features an emperor and empress riding in decorated palanquins. Around 150 performers in traditional Chinese costumes walk alongside them, joined by a ceremonial flag corps. It’s colorful, elegant, and hard to miss.
Mazu Procession
The Mazu Procession honors Mazu, the goddess of safe travel and navigation. She is worshipped at Mazu Hall in Tang Temple. During the Edo period, many ships docked at Nagasaki Port, and this historical connection inspired the Mazu Procession, which honors her role for protecting sailors and travelers.
Special Dances
Throughout the festival, lively performances bring the streets to life. Visitors can enjoy:
Dragon dances
Lion dances
Traditional erhu music
Must-Visit Cultural and Spiritual Spots
Nagasaki Confucius Temple
The Nagasaki Confucius Temple is known as the only temple in Japan built fully in traditional Chinese architectural style. It is often compared to the main Confucius Temple in Shandong Province, China.
Built in 1893 through the efforts of the Qing government and Chinese immigrants in Japan, the temple remains an important cultural landmark. During the festival, visitors can walk around the peaceful grounds and pray at Taisei Hall.
Admission fee: About 660 yen for adults
Opening Hours: 9:30–18:00 (last entry at 17:30)
The “Old Man Under the Moon” for Matchmaking
According to a legend, people who are meant to be together are connected by an invisible red thread. At a venue on Bernardo Tourist Street, visitors can pray to the “Old Man Under the Moon,” the god of matchmaking. Many people come to wish for love, ask about someone special, or seek blessings for a future partner.
Praying to the Four Halls of Candlelight
At the Tojin Yashiki venue, visitors can light candles and make wishes at four small halls:
Toshin-do
Tengo-do
Kannon-do
Fukuken Kaikan
Festival Venues
Shinchi Chinatown
The main festival area is Minato Park, located right beside Shinchi Chinatown. This is where you’ll find lantern displays in a variety of designs, lighting up the area. You can also enjoy live dance performances and mouth-watering gourmet food from the many nearby stalls. And who knows, you might even take home a lantern or two as a souvenir!
Nakashima River Park
Nakashima River Park is known for its beautiful view of yellow lanterns reflecting on the water. In the evening, the glowing lights create a calm and picture-perfect scene.
Former Chinese Quarter
This area was once home to early Chinese settlers and merchants who conducted business here. Today, the remaining buildings and atmosphere give off a nostalgic feeling, offering a glimpse into the rich Chinese culture that once thrived in Nagasaki.
Hamamachi Arcade
Hamamachi Arcade is a lively shopping street, known locally as a shotengai, filled with shops and restaurants on both sides. During the festival, lanterns decorate the arcade and transform it into a bright and festive space. Look up from time to time. You might spot a unique lantern display perfect for photos.
Getting there
Most of the festival areas are easily accessible by tram or bus from JR Nagasaki Station. Major stops to look out for include Shinchi Chinatown, Megane-bashi, Shikanbashi, and City Hall. From these stops, all venues are just a short walk away.
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