Omura City in Nagasaki Prefecture is known for centuries of blacksmithing tradition. It was after the Battle of Dannoura 800 years ago, when Yukiyasu Naminohira of the Heike Clan settled in the region in 1474.
Capt. David Adams, Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) and his wife Jen Adams meet with Nagasaki Governor Kengo Oishi backstage at the Sasebo City 120th Anniversary and Citizens’ Achievement...
The exotic look created by traditional Japanese homes shadowed by gothic-style cathedrals and a Dutch Trading Post with stone port facilities, makes Hirado a great attraction on the Western island of Kyushu.
In modern Japan where most people turn to Shinto shrines to bless babies, Christian-style chapels for weddings and Buddhist temples for funerals, it’s hard to imagine anyone worshiping in secret for fear of persecution. But in matters of faith, old habits can be as resilient as religious tradition.
In Japan, Christianity was outlawed during the 17th and 18th centuries. More than 40,000 Christians were martyred then, so followers went underground pretending to be Buddhists in public.
My journey to abandoned Hashima, widely known as “Gunkanjima” or “Battleship Island,” began with a plea to the Nagasaki government. Could I please, please, please get permission to go to the parts of Hashima that visitors aren’t granted access?
Usually when you hear about Nagasaki, places like Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum, Nagasaki Peace Park, or the Nagasaki Penguin Aquarium may be what are mentioned.
