Nagasaki Lantern Festival

Nagasaki Lantern Festival was originally known as the Shunsetsu Festival and was held as a celebration for Chinese New Years. As one of the first areas in Japan to open up for foreigners, Nagasaki has a large Chinatown and Chinese population. In 1994, the festival was modified into the Nagasaki Lantern Festival and became more of an illumination ceremony with Chinese-influences. During the weeks of Chinese New Years, Nagasaki's Chinatown and the surround area are decorated with thousands of beautiful Chinese lanterns that illuminate the area. Over 15,000 Chinese lanterns and decorative ornaments light up Nagasaki's Chinatown during the Chinese New Year. Parades, dragon dances, lion dances, and other Chinese inspired events are held throughout the weeks. Some events include the:

• Mazu Procession: Event honoring the history of China making contact with Nagasaki during the Edo Period.
• Emperor’s Parade: Parade with 150 flag bearers and other participants marching through the town in breathtaking traditional Chinese clothing, meant to replicate the parades of China's Qing Dynasty.
• Dragon Dance & Chinese Lion Dance: Traditional Chinese dance performances for celebrations.
• Chinese Acrobatics & Ehru Performances: Traditional Chinese acrobatics and instrument performances held during the festival.

Interested in joining the celebration at Nagasaki's Chinatown? Add the lantern celebration to your vacation with Japan Deluxe Tour's flexible and affordable custom tour options, or with our pre/post stay tour extensions during a Southern Japan or Grand Tour package!