Nagasaki Lantern Festival

Nagasaki, located on the northwest coast of Kyushu, is known for its history with the atomic bomb. But this beautiful prefecture has a lot more to offer visitors. It is home to Japan’s oldest Chinatown. Each year, people celebrate this rich culture during the Nagasaki Lantern Festival, which lasts for two weeks during the first fifteen days of the Chinese New Year.

Nagasaki Lantern Festival

Photo by: PIXTA/ kazukiatuko See Chinatown shine all throughout the festival.

The festival is deeply rooted in Chinese tradition. For that reason, the main events of the festival take place mainly in Chinatown. It has colorful parades and exciting cultural performances. Originally, the Chinese merchants celebrated it as a part of the Chinese New Year. Over time, the festival has grown into a prominent winter event for the city. During this festival, more than 15,000 bright lanterns and big art displays lit up the town. During the festival, colorful lanterns adorn not only Chinatown but also different parts of Nagasaki, like Minato Park, Chuo Park and Meganebashi, creating a magical atmosphere. Some decorations are pretty large, reaching about 5 meters in length.

Festival Highlights

Photo by: PIXTA/ ゆう Don’t miss out on the Emperor Parade.

One highlight of the festival is the Emperor Parade. It mimics celebrations from the Qing dynasty. Approximately 150 participants, dressed in beautiful Chinese costumes, participate in this parade, featuring the emperor and empress in splendid palanquins. Another noteworthy event is the Mazu Procession. It replicates a historical event when Chinese sailors entered Nagasaki during the Edo Period, honoring Mazu, the goddess of safe navigation. The dragon dance was originally a rain ritual from China.  It involves performers manipulating a long dragon costume in a lively display, representing a plea for good harvests.

Fun Activities

The festival also features guided strolls through the historical sites of Chinese mansions, showcasing Nagasaki’s rich Chinese history. One of the highlights is the Nagasaki Confucius Temple. The Qing government built this in 1893 for overseas Chinese. This temple is a stunning example of authentic Chinese architecture in Japan. During the festival, guests can wander the beautifully decorated temple grounds and pay their respects. Kids especially enjoy the Handmade Lantern Corner. Visitors can also participate in a candlelight prayer at four special halls: Toshin-do, Tengo-do, Kannon-do and Fukuken Kaikan. Many believe that lighting candles and praying in these halls will help fulfill their wishes. Additionally, visitors can make wishes at the colorful Nagasaki Koi Lanterns set up along Bernardo Tourist Street. There are special prayer tablets for love, allowing participants to write their wishes.