5 Popular Souvenirs in Nagasaki

Every city and town in Japan, big or small, has meibutsu (local specialties) and Nagasaki is no exception. Located on Kyushu’s western coast, the city of Nagasaki has lots for history buffs and foodies. From the old Dutch settlement, Dejima, and Oura Cathedral to one of Japan’s major Chinatowns and bayside views from Glover Garden, there’s lots to see and do. Before you head home, consider these five popular souvenirs from Nagasaki.

1. Castella 

Photo by: PIXTA/ Skylight

Castella cake is so famous that you would be remiss if you visited Nagasaki without picking some up! Bunmeido is one of the most well-known, first established in 1900. Their castella uses domestic flour and local eggs and sprinkled with granulated sugar on the bottom, lending the cake a refined sweetness. 

2. Yori Yori

Photo by: PIXTA/ Akotama

This Chinese sweet has long been a popular snack in Nagasaki City which boasts a booming Chinatown. Consisting of a twisted, sweetened and fried wheat dough, Yori Yori makes a great souvenir reminiscent of Nagasaki’s vibrant cultural fusion. 

3. Otakusa 

Photo by: Elizabeth Sok

Otakusa is a sweet pie omiyage with a romantic backstory. In the late nineteenth century, a German doctor in Nagasaki bestowed his beloved, Otaki-san’s, name on an ajisai (hydrangea). These pies, named after the hydrangea, are baked into a cute flower shape and have a delicate almond and buttery flavor perfect for teatime. 

4. Kujukushima Senbei (Rice Crackers)

Photo by: WikiCommons/ Nissy-KITAQ

Created in 1951, Kujukushima senbei (rice crackers) is named after the eponymous islands located near Sasebo, Nagasaki. Although Kujukushima translates to 99 islands, there are actually more than 200 in total. Baked to a tasty crisp, the cracker’s hexagonal shape represents the sea and the peanuts symbolize the stunning island group.  

5. Ran Petit 

Photo by: Elizabeth Sok

Combining a western-style sponge cake with a Japanese custard filling, like much of Nagasaki’s cuisine, Ran Petit is a marriage of two worlds. Shaped into a small bun that fits in the palm of your hand, these souvenirs melt in your mouth. Steamed at high temperatures, Ran Petit comes out both soft and creamy.