Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan

Nagasaki Prefecture is a unique cultural crossroads where Japan and the outside world have long intersected. During the Edo period, it was the country’s sole gateway to international trade, fostering a rich blend of Western and Chinese influences. This cultural fusion is especially evident in Nagasaki’s cuisine, from castella sponge cake to champon noodles. The intricate coastline and numerous islands create breathtaking landscapes, deeply intertwined with local life. While the region is known for its open-minded and adaptable nature, it also carries a profound legacy of history and remembrance, making it a place where past and present coexist in a truly distinctive way.